In October of 2021, although I had never written a children’s book or even thought of it, I woke up in the middle of the night and just knew that I needed to write one. Instantly, I already knew what the title would be. It would be titled A is for Amazing.
I knew instinctively what I needed to write about: a book of positive affirmation for children using the ABC model. I wanted to replace “A is for Apple” quotes. I felt that mantra was already outdated with today’s brilliant minds. I wanted more! I wanted a challenging and fun, yet educative and encouraging book.
Over the next few days, I wrote out the contents of my book and saved it. I didn’t do anything right away because I didn’t know what to do next. I had no idea where to get an illustrator.
A couple of months later, after reaching out to several illustrators on Facebook, I chose Larisa Lungu to help me illustrate my book. We worked creatively and tirelessly together on the illustrations. We brainstormed and discussed each and every illustration. Each illustration has a special meaning and we wanted every child on earth to be able to relate to any of the children in our illustrations. We included different races and different disabilities. We showed fun, responsible and creative illustrations. Children wore glasses, braces and hearing aids. Wheel chairs, walking aids and genetic conditions were also included.
I had initially planned to publish one book but as my ideas evolved, 2 additional books were created. Larisa and I worked from December of 2021 to April of 2022, submitted the manuscripts for the book, coloring book, and activity book in May of 2022, and in August of 2022, my greatest desires came true……The publication of 3 books!!! I became the author of 3 children books!!!
It was a dream come true, because I’ve always believed that when you want to connect with new ideas and think about the world in different ways, immersing yourself in a good book is the best way to do it.
2022 Events & Celebrations
This year has been a whirlwind of excitement and celebration, and none of it would have been possible without your support. I am proud that I have been able to participate in these events:
Book Launch. On October 2nd, we had our first book launch, which was a huge success! It was via Zoom and we had tons of attendees. I got to introduce my books, answer questions, and listen to what the kiddos had to say about the book. We had excerpts from the book from children and adults.
Lit With Families. On October 16th, we attended the Texas Family Literacy Festival, where I introduced the book to new audiences and read to the kids. It was wildly successful and so much fun!
NICU Presentation. On October 20th, I presented signed copies of my book to the Houston Methodist NICU in the Woodlands, which has an inaugural reading program for mothers. Nothing like bestowing such positive thoughts and energy to the babies. It was a wonderful, heart-warming event that I was proud to be a part of.
Soul Nutcracker Festival. This was such a treat! Lots of grandmothers especially bought books for their grand kids, they loved the books and wished their grandkids to start young with such impactful books. I met a young dyslexic author, who I was so happy to support.
Big Top Entertainment. I participated in 3 sales events and sold lots of books despite the stormy and rainy weather we encountered. A is for Amazing wanted to be there through it all.
What’s Happening Next?
We don’t plan to slow down in December of 2022 or in 2023. There are several exciting events planned for the upcoming months, including our very exciting Kickstarter, and we are hopeful that you can join us.
Sign up below and stay tuned for future announcements!
Enjoy these sample puzzles and share them with your little ones!
Answer: C. Kenspeckle means “easily recognizable, conspicuous, or likely to attract attention.”
