Q: First tell us something about yourself.
A devoted mother of three and the creative mind behind the heartwarming children’s book series Oinkers and Bananas. Inspired by the joy of bedtime storytelling with her own kids, Chandra embarked on a journey to enhance their bedtime experiences and created the Oinkers and Bananas book series.
Her delightful series is not just about charming adventures but carries a profound message. Chandra’s stories aim to inspire and illustrate the uniqueness of each reader, emphasizing that differences are what make us special. Through whimsical tales, she weaves in valuable life lessons that resonate with children and parents alike.
Chandra believes in the magic of storytelling to instill confidence and kindness in young hearts. Her ultimate wish is for every reader to feel wonderfully made by GOD, embracing their individuality with pride and understanding the profound love that surrounds them.
Q: How and when did your journey start as a writer?
My journey began in 2020 while having our ritual bedtime story.
Q: When did you write your first story? Is it published or not?
The first story, What’s in a name?, was published in 2022.
Q: Tell us something more about your books?
Imagine going on an exciting adventure with a pig named Bananas and a monkey named Oinkers. Two best friends tackling valuable life lessons while also learning about themselves and how to be a friend. Key lessons learned in the award winning series are:
- What’s in a name? – teaches that you are not different but unique and that your “differences” are your superpowers
- Bubble Trouble – teaches what happens when you don’t follow instructions
- Let’s Eat Cake – teaches we all need moderation
- You Can’t Catch Me – teaches that everyone has a different perspective and all of them are needed.
Q: Why do you choose kids as your reader? Is there any specific reason?
I chose kids as my readers because I am writing books for my own children. I am creating entertaining books that teach life lessons that we all need to know. The adventures of Oinkers and Bananas are created to reach a child where they are and introduce to some and expound for others lessons that are needed for life. We try and make it easily digestible so they are able to explain it to others as well as apply it to their lives.
Q: How did these stories and characters come to your mind?
The Oinkers and Banans series begins with a normal bedtime routine. I put my three kids to bed and they asked me to read a story. I, like most parents, have read the same books over and over. I decided I didn’t want to read them again. So, my kids decided to give me a challenge. They told me to make up a story instead. I asked them what the story should include and after long thought they said a pig and a monkey. That is all I was given. After a few minutes the Oinkers and Bananas series began.
Q: Do you want to leave any message for your readers?
I would love to remind them they were created on purpose. That no matter what makes them “different” they have a uniqueness that no one else has. That they are so special that there is no one else like them. To remember that their “differences” make them special and are their superpowers.
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