By: Jay Feldman

As a child, I lived in a world vibrant with stories. Books opened doors to adventures I could never have imagined. This early love has morphed into a lifelong passion that fuels my journey as a children’s book author. Every night, my children settle in with a new adventure, eager to dive into the pages that spring to life before them. I often tell them, “Let the adventures begin,” which serves as a heartfelt motto for their explorations and my mission.

The Role of Education in My Writing Journey

Being an educator has immensely shaped my approach to writing. I recognize that a child’s early experiences with literature can ignite a lifelong love for reading. These experiences inspire my stories, crafted to be entertaining and educational. They address real challenges young minds face, melding lessons with fun narratives. Teaching in a classroom environment provides me the insight to understand what sparks curiosity and engagement in children, which is pivotal in shaping my stories.

My Six Inspirations: Lessons from Parenting

With six children, I navigate a bustling household filled with laughter and chaos. Each child offers unique perspectives, shaping my understanding of their world. Their questions and ideas ignite stories within me as I see the beauty in their innocence and creativity. They remind me of the importance of imaginative play, which often influences the characters and plots of my books. Listening to their everyday experiences allows me to weave relatable tales that resonate, echoing the things they face and their emotions.

From Educator to Author: Making the Leap

Transitioning from educator to author was not merely a career change; it felt like a calling. I decided to self-publish my work after realizing that my stories were woven with lessons worth sharing. Each book reflects my experiences, crafted with care and attention. This leap was fraught with challenges, but it was also exhilarating. With no one to finance or market my work, I relied on my determination to carve a niche in the competitive world of children’s literature.

Self-Publishing: Challenges and Triumphs

Self-publishing is a journey that has its ups and downs. Initially, I faced a steep learning curve—navigating everything from writing to layout and distribution. Yet, this journey urged me to grow and discover skills I never knew I had. Publishing twelve books within two years is more than just a number; it signifies perseverance and passion. Each book released has garnered unique feedback from my audience. The triumphs, whether big or small, reaffirm my belief in providing enriching literature for children.

Creating Relatable Characters for Young Readers

At the heart of every good story are characters that resonate. In my books, I aim to create relatable figures that embody children’s experiences. My characters often face challenges similar to those my children encounter. They embark on adventures that reflect the hopes and challenges of young readers, helping them relate to the stories. This connection encourages empathy and understanding while keeping the narrative engaging.

Building a Brand from Scratch: Marketing Strategies

Marketing has been an essential part of my self-publishing journey. I dove into social media, local events, and connections within the literary community. Sharing my experiences in magazines such as Power Magazine and Shout Out Atlanta has broadened my reach. Although I have no formal marketing background, resourcefulness, and creativity have become my best friends. As an author and educator, I often leverage moments from my life to engage my audience effectively.

Recognizing Milestones: Media Features and Achievements

Accomplishments like being featured in BWA magazine and on the cover of BWA Kids Lit are monumental moments in my journey. These achievements have helped legitimize my work and amplify my voice in the literary landscape. Recognition validates the hard work put into each book and invites others into my world of storytelling. Each feature cultivates community and encouragement among fellow writers and readers alike.

The Importance of Community in Literature

Community plays a vital role in the literary ecosystem. Engaging with other authors, educators, and parents fosters collaboration and support. I cherish the shared experiences and perspectives gained from these interactions. Participating in workshops, book fairs, and online discussions enables me to learn and grow. It reminds me that storytelling is a collective journey, one where the experiences of others enhance the richness of our narratives.

Published by Anne C.