Q: First tell us something about yourself ?
I am the proud wife and mother of two beautiful children, André (3) and Noelle (1). I live in Colorado and work at Children’s Hospital Colorado as a Clinical Application Analyst.
Q: How and when did your journey started as a writer?
My journey as a children’s author began in the summer of last year. When I was pregnant with my second baby, I was specifically looking for a “Big Brother” book to help prepare my son for a new baby and couldn’t find any with any families of color. The idea to write my own children’s book first crossed my mind then but the process of publishing a book seemed too daunting. In 2020, I just decided to go for it.
Q: When did you write your first story? Is it published or not?
I wrote my first story last summer in the middle of quarantine. Writing the actual manuscript only took me about 20 minutes. Everything after that (all the logistics of publishing a book) took MUCH longer, but I was able to officially publish my first book in December.
Q: Tell us something more about your books?
My first book was inspired by the experience my son had when my daughter was born. The idea for one book has now blossomed into a full series called “Live, Laugh, Grow.” The forthcoming books cover topics such as learning to share, going to school and baking a cake. My books are all inspired by my kids and I try to incorporate humor in them through the illustrations. I would love my books to someday be a well-known series like Splat the Cat, Little Critter or Berenstain Bears.
Q: Why do you choose kids as your reader? is there any specific reason?
I believe reading as a child shapes the way you view the world. It was important to me to create characters that were diverse, with a multi-ethnic family that represents my own. I hope kids can either identify with seeing a family like mine or help build an understanding of families that may not look like theirs.
Q: How did these stories and characters come to your mind?
My stories are based on real experiences I have shared/seen with my children. The characters are based on my kids.
Q: Do you want to give any message for your readers?
I hope my books will be timeless and families can read and enjoy my books for years to come. I also hope that through my books, my readers can explore real-life experiences all while cultivating laughter, learning, confidence and growth.
