What inspired you to start writing children’s books, especially with the theme of kindness and acceptance?
I was inspired to write children’s books because I was bullied in school and treated differently. I was fortunate to have people believe in me. It makes me happy to write children’s books so I can share the importance of kindness and acceptance. If I can touch one person’s life and let them know it is ok to be different, I will have made a difference in the world.
You mentioned being bullied and treated differently—how have those experiences shaped your storytelling?
Being bullied and treated differently was so difficult. It taught me to never give up and the importance of children learning how powerful kindness and friendship are to everyone. This influenced my storytelling and became the theme of my books.
Not learning to read until high school is such a powerful part of your journey. How do you think that experience helps you connect with young readers today?
Reading opened up a huge world. You can learn so many things and be transported on adventures. Young readers should allow their imagination to grow. I always had my imagination which grew over time even when it was difficult to read.
How do you approach writing stories that show it’s okay to be different in a way that kids can truly understand?
I approach my writing with an open mind showing how friendship and working together solves problems. I also show kindness between different groups of characters. You soon see how these differences form friendships.
Can you share a moment when a child or parent told you your book, “Dogtopia and Winter Wonderland: An Ice-Breaking Adventure,” made a difference?
A parent said they were happy I was helping children understand the importance of caring for the earth. The book also helped Katie find her parents as a continuation of the book, “Snowball’s Winter Wonderland”. It showed that Rachel and Bond kept their promise to help Katie find her parents. The parent was happy to see so many good lessons in the book.
What role does your anxiety play in your creative process, and how do you manage it while writing?
I will experience anxiety when I get stuck on an idea. I will take a break and reimagine in my head where I want the story to go. I use relaxation techniques to help me focus, I will also listen to music to clear my mind.
How do you turn personal challenges into empowering messages for children?
The characters reflect some of the challenges I experienced. For example, Rachel shared her anxiety with her friend Mary. Mary showed her understanding and kindness and acceptance of how difficult that it could be. I have the characters experience these many challenges and show how kindness and understanding will always help.
Why do you believe acts of kindness—especially small ones—can be so impactful?
Small acts of kindness make a difference. You never k ow what struggles people are going through and the challenges that they face. To know that someone cares can make someone feel special.
Are there any particular books or authors that inspired you when you finally learned to read?
The first series that I read was Land of Stories written by Chris Colfer. It inspired me to write a series of books. It showed me how someone could follow their passion and write stories about things they loved. It inspired me to have messages about important values.
What message do you hope children take away after reading your book, “Growing Up with a Disability”?
The message is that even though people are different everyone has a talent and things that they are good at. Everyone is special and it is important to believe in yourself and have dreams. It is important to not let anyone make you feel bad about yourself. Everyone is unique.
How do you balance storytelling with teaching important social-emotional lessons?
I take ideas about serious issues such as friendship, kindness, climate change, challenges, etc. and have my characters deal with these issues in a serious but fun way. You learn about these issues by seeing how the characters work together trying to solve problems. Y they accomplish this through adventures.
What advice would you give to a child who feels like they don’t fit in?
My advice would be to let them know they are special. It is important to believe you. You have so much to offer. Do not let people make you feel less important.
In what ways do you think schools and families can encourage kindness and inclusion?
They should teach how you should treat people how you want to be treated. Everyone has feelings and should be respected. Everyone has a story to tell and should be included.
What’s next for you—any upcoming stories or themes you're excited to explore?
I am currently writing another book. The theme is about a friend moving away and no matter where you are you are still connected. Also the theme is that change is hard, but it still can be a good thing.
How has your experience been with AllAuthor?
My experience has been wonderful. I can put all my stories on my website.
