Having overcome her own doubts about pursuing a writing career, Dartmouth resident Susan Drayton is releasing her first children’s book about the endeavor.

Drayton’s April release, titled “Worthiness,” tells the story of Seth the dragon, who worries too much and struggles with confidence issues. The dragon’s journey reflects its creator’s own path to becoming published, and the nervousness she had to overcome to get there.

“This is something I’ve always wanted to do, but I put it off because I wasn’t sure of myself,” Drayton said.

Seth rids himself of worry when a group of magical fairies come to his aid. The story is not unlike Drayton’s, who found encouragement in a Dartmouth painter.

Drayton, a sketch artist since childhood, enrolled in a painting class led by Susan Cabral to strengthen her skill set. Drayton said Cabral is represented by one of the fairies in her story, which is woven with Drayton’s original fantasy artwork.

“Through her mentoring, I looked at the world in a different perspective. She assisted me in perfecting my artistic abilities at another level,” Drayton said.

Brainstorming and completing the book was a long process, however. For three years, Drayton learned new skills and sought inspiration, she said.

“I took a leap of faith,” Drayton explained. “Being out in nature, feeling different emotions and feelings, I did soul searching. This is what popped out,” she said.

Publisher Mascot Books will release Drayton’s book on April 4. The book can be ordered through the company’s website, mascotbooks.com.

Drayton is already working on a second children’s book, called “Into the Sea.”