Texas Author's Debut Memoir Explores How Trauma and Loss Reshape Identity

In "There's No Such Thing as Bad," Joyce L. Skala recounts childhood trauma, a house fire and the work rebuilding her sense of self.

PARADISE, Texas, Nov. 9, 2026 /PRNewswire/ -- Texas author Joyce L. Skala traces her path through childhood trauma, the loss of her family home in a 2017 fire and health challenges in her debut memoir, "There's No Such Thing as Bad." Through reflections on these experiences, Skala explores how difficult circumstances have influenced her identity, relationships and understanding of personal growth.

Skala recounts the experiences that challenged her sense of stability and shaped her understanding of herself. Rather than presenting a conventional recovery narrative, she shares her story as it unfolded, examining the tension between outward success and private struggles with fear, grief and uncertainty.

"Every so-called bad thing carried me closer to who I really am," Skala said.

The memoir traces Skala's experiences from childhood and the loss of her family home in a 2017 fire to her work as a musician, published columnist, podcast host and founder of Cypress Music Scene®. Originally from Cypress, Texas, Skala also reflects on her involvement in the community and creative pursuits, including her recognition as a 2024 Woman of Influence by Cypress Lifestyle. Throughout the book, she examines people-pleasing, personal boundaries, identity and the process of developing a stronger sense of self.

For readers who have experienced personal upheaval, questioned long-held expectations or reconsidered how they define themselves, "There's No Such Thing as Bad" presents one woman's account of navigating life's challenges. Skala shares the experiences and reflections that have shaped her perspective, inviting readers to consider how their own experiences influence the way they see themselves and their lives.

"There's No Such Thing As Bad"
By Joyce L. Skala
ISBN: 9781665796491 (softcover); 9781665798716 (hardcover); 9781665796484 (electronic) 
Available at ArchwayPublishing, Amazon, Barnes & Noble, Walmart and Books-A-Million

About the author
Joyce L. Skala is a Texas author, singer, storyteller, artist and creative entrepreneur whose work spans live music, journalism, podcasting and community building. She founded Cypress Music Scene® and hosts the "Joyce Behind The Mic" podcast. She previously wrote a recurring music column for Peel, Inc. community publications, and Cypress Lifestyle named her a 2024 Woman of Influence. Learn more at nosuchthingasbad.com/

About InkFox Publicity
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SOURCE Archway Publishing