Can you share your journey as an author? How did it all begin, and what inspires you to write?
My journey started during the COVID pandemic. I came across an article about 50 newly discovered mushroom species that could help save the planet, and it sparked my curiosity.
What inspired you to write for readers aged 9-12?
I teach at seasonal art camps, working with kids from 6 years old through their teens. When I read that article, I thought of them—this age group that will inherit these environmental challenges. Empowering them felt necessary because their futures are on the line.
How has partnering with Recycle Hawaii shaped your views on environmental issues?
Partnering with Recycle Hawaii gave me a firsthand look at the environmental challenges we face. Visiting schools and seeing the students’ bright ideas for reducing waste and cleaning up the environment was truly eye-opening.
What inspired your illustrated novel, MySillyO: The Plastic Digester?
The novel was inspired by a sculpture I created from rescue trash I found along the highway and marine debris I collected from the ocean. As I worked on the sculpture, a story began to form in my mind, and that story grew into the characters and plot of the book.
How does your music, especially your song “Good’s Gonna Happen," connect to your environmental advocacy?
As a reggae artist, I believe in music with a message. "Good’s Gonna Happen" is a love song, but its message of perseverance can also apply to environmental causes—if we don’t give up, good things will happen. The song carries that dual meaning, which aligns perfectly with my advocacy. Additionally, I’ve written a song titled the *MySillyO Song, to accompany the book, and I’m currently working on a video for it.
What challenges did you face transitioning from music to writing an illustrated novel?
I assumed writing a book would be similar to writing a song, but I quickly discovered how different they are! The transition was challenging, and it took me longer than expected. However, through perseverance, I found my rhythm as a writer.
How do you think your outreach efforts in Big Island schools have influenced students’ views on environmental stewardship?
I believe I’ve helped students become more aware of the challenges we face. Living on an island, the idea of "less is more" is vital. When students engage with music, art, and conscious thought, they take those lessons to heart and can positively impact their communities.
What role do you think storytelling plays in fostering environmental awareness among young readers?
Storytelling has always been a powerful tool for teaching life lessons, especially among indigenous cultures. When the learning process is fun, it becomes deeply impactful, especially for younger audiences.
Can you describe the process of creating the illustrations for MySillyO: The Plastic Digester?
The illustrations were created by a talented young artist I found on Fiverr. She connected with the message of the book and worked closely with me to bring the characters and scenes to life in a vibrant, visionary style.
What key lessons do you hope young readers will take away from your book?
I hope they feel a sense of responsibility and the importance of working together. The story’s central theme is about collaboration—just as we’ve collectively contributed to environmental challenges, we must work together to solve them in harmony with the earth.
How do you balance your roles as a musician, environmental advocate, and author?
Living off-grid in the country helps me maintain balance. Music is woven into the fabric of life for me—whether it’s birdsong or the wind in the trees, it inspires both my writing and my journaling.
How do you envision your work with Recycle Hawaii evolving in the future?
While I’m no longer directly working with Recycle Hawaii, I continue to embody their principles—reduce, reuse, recycle—and add my own: rejuvenation, regeneration, and rebirth. It’s time to wake up and take action.
What advice would you give to other artists looking to incorporate environmental themes into their work?
My advice is to be mindful. Start by evaluating your materials and processes. Can you recycle more? Use non-toxic materials? It all begins at home and then grows outward.
What are you currently working on?
I’m currently collaborating on a video for The MySillyO Song and exploring the creation of a MySillyO figure or toy made from mycelium.
How has your experience working with AllAuthor been?
Working with AllAuthor has been a positive experience. I appreciate AllAuthor‘s personal commitment to its clients success.
