Which is your favorite childhood memory?
Playing with my siblings in our 100-year-old manor house in Britain. Discovering hidden stairways and ringing the service bells in every room. The staff had long since left, but the enchantment of our surroundings and the joy of letting our imaginations run wild are some of my cherished memories.
Do you remember the first story you ever read and the impact it had on you?
The Far-Away Tree and The Famous Five series by Enid Blyton
Can you tell us about your journey as a writer and how it all began with those letters home to your family when you immigrated to Canada?
My many letters were but a means to stay connected. Then, years later, working in a school library, I wondered how hard it might be to publish a picture book. Finally, about ten years later, I had my answer!
How did the experience of writing letters to your family shape your love for writing and storytelling?
I never considered myself a writer until I had to give a presentation one day. Afterwards, a man in the audience asked me if I was a writer. I responded in the negative.
"I thought you were," he said, "because of how you presented." He invited me to his writer's group, and I guess it started there. Still, in hindsight, all my letters to my family in England likely helped because I enjoyed describing new places and experiences.
What do you believe is the importance of book talks for school libraries? How do they benefit students?
With any presentation, the talk needs primarily to be about the audience. How can children apply what they are hearing to their own life? The message needs to be one that will excite, inspire, and help students walk away with great anticipation for life.
How has working in school libraries for the past 20 years shaped your understanding of literature and storytelling?
Being immersed in literature, I have learned so much! I've always had a passion for children, books, and art! Reading stories aloud to children daily gave me a feel for what works and what doesn't.
Congratulations on the success of your two award-winning picture books! How did you find yourself in the world of children's literature?
Through trial and error, knocking on many publishers' doors, being persistent, & thick-skinned.
Also, building writing credits through magazine articles helped. As a Christian, I pray and ask God for direction in all that I do. He is my foundation for living.
Picture books are known for their ability to captivate young readers. What do you believe makes a picture book truly stand out and resonate with its audience?
There are multiple things, but one that excites, makes you laugh or leaves the reader pondering or inspired. The images and text work harmoniously together, accentuating each other, and it is a book that can be read multiple times, and each time something new is discovered. I call these multi-layered books. They have more than just an initial storyline appeal.
Can you share any memorable experiences or interactions you've had with young readers or their parents regarding your picture book, "Barclay & Berk Builders: A Parable"?
Listening to children's stories when they make connections to the book.
How do you balance the creative aspect of writing with the business side of being a published author?
This is tough. I set goals.
What advice do you have for aspiring writers who are looking to break into the world of children's literature and get their own picture books published?
Read a lot of children's picture books. Don't be in a hurry to attain your goal. Find several qualified beta readers, and lastly, don't settle for poor images or design.
Have you observed any trends or changes in reading habits among students over the years, and how has that influenced your approach to writing?
Indeed, trends and habits are constantly changing. When I started working in school libraries, the rise in graphic novels and books written in prose was a growing trend. The latest trend is books that are inclusive and validate the reader. I believe reading habits are changing constantly with the rise of social media and other factors.
What techniques or strategies do you use to engage students during your book talks?
My main goal is to get the student to apply the information I provide about the book as a launching ground for their interests and ideas. I use a visual power-point and take my guitar to younger classrooms.
Which is the next book you are writing? Give us an insight into it.
I am excited about my next book, set to release this fall.
A Seed is a promise is illustrated by seventeen international artists and makes a beautiful gift. In the everyday details of our lives, God's presence is demonstrated to us through the details of His creation. When we slow down and enjoy the world around us, we can understand his loving care for each of us. This book, written in prose for ages 5-9, reminds readers of their unique and intrinsic value in God's sight. Author sales from A seed is a Promise will help to support an orphanage in Uganda.
When did you first come across the AllAuthor website, and what were your expectations coming in? What are your thoughts now?
I wanted to submit to a publisher that recommended having a profile on AllAuthor. After reviewing the webpage, I decided this would help my exposure as an author. I am glad to be a part of the All Author community. It is a helpful resource.
