An author of children’s books spoke with News 12 about his journey growing up homeless.

Joey Olsen, 40, remembers the hardship of growing up homeless with his mother and six siblings. He says writing helped to fill a void.

"Sitting there writing took me away from it all and put me in a better place," says Joey Olsen.

Now living as an adult in Cornwall with two boys of his own, he says he is turning a new page.

Olsen’s newest book, "Do You Smell That?" is about farm animals that wear underpants. The story transforms his dreadful memories of going without proper clothing as a child into something fun.

The author often enjoys dressing up in costume to read books to kids in school.

"Just to be there, be silly – it's fantastic. It really does feel good," says Olsen.

He says he hopes his story will serve as inspiration. A portion of the book sales will buy underwear for local children in need.