Q: First tell us something about yourself?
My name is Portia Y. Clare. I am a left-handed only child who loves spending time with family, bowling, singing, and writing children’s books. I am a citizen of the United States and The Commonwealth of The Bahamas. I am privileged to be in my 31st year of teaching. Simply put, I teach because I love children. I believe that I was born to teach.
Q: How and when did your journey start as a writer?
My writing journey began in second grade when I wrote a story about my visit to The Statue of Liberty. Writing that story was extremely enjoyable, and winning first prize for my story made the writing even more special! That experience served to spark my interest in creative writing.
Q: When did you write your first story? Is it published or not?
The first story that I remember writing was about my visit to The Statue of Liberty. I wrote it when I was in second grade. It is not published. Best Friends Forever: A Puppy’s Tale is my first published children’s book.
Q: Tell us something more about your books?
The ideas for my children’s books are inspired by my desire to help children recognize their quality, appreciate their value, and navigate through difficult life experiences.
Q: Why do you choose kids as your reader? is there any specific reason?
I have chosen to write children’s books because I am a teacher of children. Writing children’s books allows me to combine two things that bring me joy – teaching children and creative writing. What a blessing!
Q: How did these stories and characters come to your mind?
Best Friends Forever: A Puppy’s Tale is a true story. It is my story. The other stories that I have written stem from real-life experiences as well as my observations and experiences as an elementary school teacher.
Q: Do you want to leave any message for your readers?
Each of us is born with gifts, talents, and abilities that are important, sufficient, and necessary. Indeed, we have them so that we might give them in service to one another. May you be inspired to recognize, acknowledge, and share your gifts, talents, and abilities with the world so that through them, you will encourage others to recognize their quality, appreciate their value, and navigate through difficult life experiences. Our children will be the better for it. All the very best to you, and thank you for your support!
