SMITHDALE, MA – Ruth Elliot, the retired public school music teacher who taught and mentored global pop icon Gwyn (formerly Gwen Thompson), has officially signed a publishing deal with Egervari Publishing Co. to release her debut book, Nurture Your Inner Popstar: Harnessing Teen Talent. The book will be released immediately.

Part memoir, part motivational guide, Nurture Your Inner Popstar chronicles Elliot’s 35 years in music education and her once-in-a-lifetime experience working closely with a shy student named Gwen—who would go on to become one of the most talked-about voices in modern pop music.

“In many ways, this book has been in my heart for years,” says Elliot. “But after the devastating loss of Gwyn, it took on new meaning. I didn’t just want to honor her legacy—I needed to remind young women everywhere that their voices matter, even when no one’s listening yet.”

Elliot taught Gwyn throughout high school, encouraging her to sing her first solo, compose her first original song, and develop the artistic instincts that would eventually define her sound. Gwyn had often credited Elliot in interviews as “the teacher who believed in me before I believed in myself.”

Though the project faced hurdles—including initial concerns about publishing rights and permissions—Egervari Publishing ultimately saw the value in Elliot’s unique position as both educator and witness to the rise of a cultural phenomenon. With pop-singer Gwyn tragically passing in November, 2023, the path is cleared for Elliot to publish her story without the typical legal roadblocks.

“Ruth’s story is more than just a behind-the-scenes look at an emerging star,” said a spokesperson for Egervari. “It’s a powerful testament to the mentors who help shape creative futures—and to the resilience it takes to keep believing in the next generation.”

Nurture Your Inner Popstar includes classroom anecdotes, creative exercises for aspiring singers and songwriters, and reflective chapters about grief, growth, and Gwen’s transformation into Gwyn. The book has already generated early interest among educators and music-focused youth programs across the U.S.

“This isn’t a tell-all,” Elliot says. “It’s a love letter—to the students I’ve taught, to the ones still searching for their spotlight, and to the girl who once sat at the back of my choir room and changed my life forever.”

The book will be available in print and e-book formats, with a portion of proceeds supporting community music programs in underfunded schools.

For media inquiries or early review copies, please contact Ruth Elliot at [email protected].