My name is
Cheryl.I have a B.S. BIology and was a ski patroller in Vermont before became a
paramedic in August 2001. The first day for my first job as a paramedic was
9-11-2001. I am originally from Manlius, N.Y. (outside of Syracuse) and
currently reside in Saint Louis, MO with my husband and 3 yr old son, Logan. I
started working for the Saint Louis Fire Dept as a paramedic in 2002 where I
met my husband who is a firefighter-paramedic. Currently I stay home with our
son and new puppy. I enjoy outdoor activities, adventure , family time ,
baking, entertaining and writing when I can.
Tell us about the genre of your
work.
This is my
first book. I have always enjoyed writing poems. This book of poetry is geared
towards children.
Why did you choose this genre?
I chose
this genre because it somehow feels natural to me. I've tried writing novels,
however poetry is what I feel best suits ... me.
What are some of your books, stories
that have been published?
My first
and only published book (so far) is titled, Shorts...Tailored
For Kids.
I also
just started a short story.
What ages do you direct your books?
I would
gear my books for ages 3 and up.
Can you tell more about your book?
My
published book, LinkedIn, is as an interactive book of 18 poems, each followed
by an illustration and a how would you draw it page. The last page allows
children to tap into their own creativity and draw what they feel. Some have
also told me that this attribute can make this book an excellent art keepsake.
Shorts...Tailored
For Kids ISBN: 978-1-4535-8441-5. The book can be found at Xlibris.com;
amazon.com; bn.com
in hardcopy, paperback and e-book.
Does your book have a teaching
objective? If so, what is it?
The How
Would You Draw It page encourages children to tap into their own creativity.
Poems are engaging and brief so children do want to read/ listen and are not be
bored.
How do you come up with the names of
places and characters in your book?
My son is
my inspiration.
How did you develop the character/s in
your book?
Any idea that popped into my head I tried to
incorporate.
What is your favorite thing about
your book?
Easy to
read, engaging and it is meant to be drawn on.
Is your book illustrated? If so,
would you tell us by whom, and if you worked with an illustrator, can you
discuss that experience?
How is writing in the genre you
write, different than other genre?
I am new
to this arena. I find this genre easier for me. Flows better for me. Again,
feels natural. I cannot speak on any other genres since I have not completed
anything else longer than poems or short stories.
Are there any problems in getting
children’s’ books published?
I am
self-published through Xlibris. I personally found the publishing process to be
easy, non-stressful. I am searching for a publishing company that specializes
in children's books and promotions.
Why and when did you begin writing?
I began
when I was probably around 10 yrs old. I've always enjoyed writing poetry. I've
enjoyed composing my thoughts, feelings, dreams,ect... through poems. I have
always wanted to write and publish a children's book. A couple of years ago I
was at a crossroads and decided that if I really wanted to write and publish a
book, then I must first sit down and write. My thought was that my book is not
going to write itself. So I must write my book.
What is your writing schedule?
I do not
have a one. A 3-year-old and a puppy keep me busy. I write whenever the mood
strikes and when I get an idea that pops into my head. Sometimes that is at
3AM!
What projects are you
working on now, or plan for the future?
I started a short story again probably geared for 3-years-old and up. I would love to find a publisher that specializes
in the children's book/ promotions arena.
What kind of advice or tips do you
have for someone who wants to write and get published?
My advice
is first of all.. if you want to write. Write. If this is your dream then sit
down and do it. Even though I am trying to find a publishing company to write
for and be published through, I had an excellent experience with Xlibris, a
self-publishing company.
Are there any other comments, advice
or tips that you would give to beginning writers?
I do not
have much advice. I only do what feels natural to me and brings me joy. Especially
since I am new to the writing -publishing- promoting world I look for advice
from more experienced authors.
What do you do when you are not
writing?
Family
time. Our families do not live in Saint Louis where we reside. So we are the
travelling family. Driving to visit friends and family in diffent areas of the
country, visiting my husband's family's farm. Logan loves watching tractors,
bobcats and anything that is a truck. There is also everyday life which
everyone lives- chasing after kids, house chores,and for us, taking advantage
of all of the wonderful kid friendy sites in Saint Louis.
What "Made It" moments
have you experienced in life?
I don't
really feel as if I've "made It". I feel that I am on a constant, ever-changing,
ever-growing journey. I feel as if I have accomplished a lot and have been
blessed with the adventures I have had and continue to have in my life.
I am
trying to become more computer savvy. The website for Xlibris is:
www.Xlibris.com where my book is published.
Note from Sylvia: You can visit my other blog at: http://love-faith-and-guts.blogspot.com/that features a preview to my new book that will be released in 2012, Traveling a Rocky Road with Love, Faith and Guts.
2 comments:
This is a wonderful book to introduce young children to poetry, beyond nursery rhymes. I love that there is space- in the book- for my son to draw his thoughts about what he just heard!
What a great interview! I've purchased several of this book of poems, as well have my friends after they have seen the book, and are excited about it. The grandchildren/nieces/nephews LOVE it. Waiting for more from this talented author. Educational/fun and entertaining!
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