https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0DKXG3TR1
What have you found to be most challenging about writing in [genre]?
The biggest challenge when writing children’s literature is finding the right balance between entertainment and meaning. When writing for children, you need to ensure that the story is engaging enough to hold their attention but also simple enough to be understandable. At the same time, it should convey important lessons that stay with them long after they’ve closed the book.
Another challenge is creating characters and situations that children can relate to. It’s essential to capture their perspective on the world – how they perceive friendship, family, adventures, and even fears. Additionally, I have to be careful not to sound preachy – children are very sensitive to that and prefer lessons to come naturally through the story.
And, of course, illustrations play a crucial role. They need not only to complement the text but also to tell their own story. Working with illustrators requires careful collaboration to ensure that the text and visuals come together in a harmonious way.
Do you identify with your main character or did you create a character that is your opposite?
I identify with my main character to some extent, but Wimsy – the magical hat – also represents qualities and ideas that I strive to embody or pass on to my readers. Wimsy is a symbol of self-confidence, belief in oneself, and the ability to see magic in everyday life – qualities that I believe everyone can discover within themselves, including me.
At the same time, Wimsy is not entirely like me. As an author, I created this character with the intention of making him an inspiration for children – someone who not only supports them but also helps them understand that they have the power to overcome challenges. In a way, Wimsy is a better version of myself – wise, fun, and always ready to lend a hand.
Would you like readers to have any specific takeaway from your book?
Yes, I would like readers – especially the children for whom the book is intended – to take away a few important lessons from "The Magic Hat of Wimsy." First and foremost, I want them to realize that magic is everywhere around us, but most importantly, it’s within us. Believing in yourself and your abilities is the key to overcoming difficulties and facing challenges with confidence.
Additionally, the story aims to show that each of us has the potential to be a hero – you don’t need superpowers or special talents to make a meaningful impact. Small gestures, good intentions, and the power of imagination are what truly make the world a better place.
Finally, I hope the book inspires children to dream big and believe that anything is possible. If "The Magic Hat of Wimsy" can make even one child feel braver or more self-assured, then I believe I’ve fulfilled my mission as an author.
As an author, what critique has been the most challenging for you to receive? On the other hand, what compliment has been the most rewarding?
One of the biggest challenges I’ve faced as a writer was addressing criticism about balancing entertainment and messaging in my stories. Early on, I received feedback that some of the themes in my books were too complex for the age group I was writing for. This made me reflect on how I could convey important lessons in a more accessible and natural way, so they would resonate with children without coming across as preachy or overly serious.
That critique motivated me to dig deeper into what truly resonates with kids – what excites them, what makes them laugh, and what inspires them. Through this process, I not only improved my writing but also learned how to connect more effectively with my audience.
On the other hand, the most rewarding compliment I’ve ever received came from parents who told me their children wanted to read my book over and over again. When I hear that a child has said, "This story is my favorite!" I feel an immense sense of joy. For me, that’s the highest form of recognition – knowing that my story has found a special place in someone’s heart.
Share some advice for aspiring authors. What advice would you give to your younger self?1. What is your favorite line from your book?
Advice for Aspiring Authors:
The most important advice I can give to aspiring authors is to trust your voice and your story. There will always be moments of doubt, but your perspective is unique and deserves to be shared. Don’t be afraid to experiment and make mistakes – writing is a process of learning and discovery.
Another tip is to read widely and diversely. Every book you read can teach you something new – whether it’s about structure, style, or inspiration. And finally, embrace feedback with an open heart. Criticism can be tough, but it’s an invaluable tool for growth.
Advice to My Younger Self:
To my younger self, I would say: “Don’t wait for the perfect moment to start. Just write the first word, the first page. Your story won’t be perfect from the start, but that doesn’t make it any less valuable.” I’d also encourage my younger self to be more confident and not be afraid to share their work with the world.
Favorite Quote from the Book:
My favorite quote from "The Magic Hat of Wimsy" is:
“The magic isn’t in the hat but in what you believe you can do when you wear it.”
This line captures the core message of the book – that the power and magic are always within us, as long as we believe in them.
What is your take on book boyfriends? Do they actually exist? Or do they set the bar for “real life men” impossibly high?
Book boyfriends can certainly seem unrealistic at times because they are often idealized versions of what readers imagine as the "perfect partner." That’s part of the magic of books – they allow us to dream and create characters that reflect our desires and aspirations.
At the same time, I think these characters are often inspired by real life. Many authors create their heroes based on people they’ve met or qualities they’ve seen in the partners of those around them. While these characters may appear flawless, they often have human traits that make them relatable to us.
Do they set the bar too high? Perhaps. But I don’t think that’s necessarily a bad thing – sometimes these "ideal" portrayals can inspire us to seek more respect, love, and support in our real-life relationships.
What do you like to do when you’re not writing?
When I’m not writing, I love spending time with my loved ones – especially with my family and my little nieces and nephews, who always surprise me with their imagination and energy. They’re often my inspiration and a reminder of the magic of childhood.
I also enjoy spending time in nature. There’s something so calming and rejuvenating about being surrounded by greenery or listening to the sound of birds. These moments make me feel connected to the world and often inspire new ideas for stories.
Another passion of mine is reading. I always have a book nearby – whether it’s classic literature, an inspiring biography, or a children’s fairy tale. Reading allows me to explore new worlds and learn new things. Additionally, I enjoy creative activities like drawing and crafting small projects – it helps me unwind and express my creativity in different ways.
Was there anything you had to research for the book?
Yes, even though "The Magic Hat of Wimsy" is a children’s story, I took the time to research several important aspects to make it even more impactful. First, I wanted to ensure that the themes of self-confidence and imagination were presented in a way that was suitable for the age group of 4 to 7 years old. I read many articles and books about child psychology and development during this period to understand how to best convey my message.
Additionally, I explored how magical elements, like a "magic hat," could stimulate children’s imagination. I spoke with parents and teachers to understand what kinds of stories children love and what themes inspire them. This helped me build a world that is not only fun and magical but also teaches children to believe in their own abilities.
The illustrations also required some research – I wanted the colors and images to be engaging and stimulating for young readers. In this process, I drew inspiration from classic children’s books, but I also aimed to bring something unique that would make "The Magic Hat of Wimsy" truly memorable.
Did you have any say in the cover design?
Yes, I was actively involved in the design of the cover because, for me, it’s a very important part of the overall reader experience. I wanted the cover of "The Magic Hat of Wimsy" to capture the magic and mood of the story while also appealing to children and their parents.
I worked closely with the illustrator to ensure that the colors, imagery, and composition conveyed the right message. For example, I insisted that the hat be the centerpiece of the cover to highlight its magical role in the story. Additionally, I wanted elements that spark imagination – bright stars, mysterious lights, or small details that children can discover while looking at the cover.
Although I’m not a professional designer, the process was incredibly inspiring. We exchanged ideas, reviewed sketches, and made adjustments until we were all happy with the final result. I firmly believe that the cover is more than just a visual representation – it’s an invitation for readers to dive into the magical world of the book.
What are you reading right now?
At the moment, I’m reading a few different books that inspire me in various ways. One of them is a collection of children’s fairy tales from different cultures – I love exploring how magic and morals are portrayed in different parts of the world. This inspires me as an author and gives me ideas on how to make my stories more universal and relatable to diverse audiences.
I’m also reading a book about creative writing because I believe there’s always something new to learn, even when you’ve already written a few books. I find it important to grow not only as a writer but also as a storyteller who inspires and connects with readers.
What can we anticipate from you moving forward?
In the future, I plan to continue creating stories that inspire and excite young readers. I’m currently working on a sequel to "The Magic Hat of Wimsy," where the characters will embark on new adventures filled with even more magic, friendship, and important life lessons. It will be an exciting journey that deepens readers' connection to the characters.
Additionally, I’m considering a new series of books focusing on overcoming challenges children face. Topics like fear of the dark, the first day of school, or learning new skills will be presented in a fun and supportive way.
At the same time, I’d like to explore other genres. I might start working on a story for older children, incorporating more adventure and fantasy elements. I’m also open to writing a book for adults, sharing deeper messages, but always with a touch of the magic that inspires me.
Regardless of the format, my main focus remains on creating books that touch hearts and inspire imagination.
Did you always want to be an author? If not, what did you want to be when you grew up?
I didn’t always imagine that I would become an author, even though stories and imagination have always been an important part of my life. As a child, I often got lost in books, drew, or created my little worlds, but my dreams for the future shifted over time.
When I was younger, I wanted to become a teacher because I loved the idea of helping children learn and discover new things. At one point, I dreamed of being an artist because I adored drawing and expressing my emotions through art. But there was always this feeling that I wanted to create – whether through words, colors, or ideas.
Over time, I realized that writing is the way I can combine all these passions. Through my books, I can teach, inspire, and create the magical worlds I loved so much as a child. Looking back now, becoming a writer feels like the natural continuation of everything I ever wanted to be.
Do you listen to music while you write? If so, what kind of music do you like to listen to?
Yes, I often listen to music while I write because it helps me focus and get into a creative mindset. The music I choose depends a lot on the mood of the scene I’m working on or the emotion I want to convey.
When I’m writing magical moments or scenes that need to inspire, I love listening to instrumental music – film soundtracks or compositions with piano and orchestra. Melodies from movies like "Harry Potter" or "The Lord of the Rings" inspire me to create worlds filled with magic and adventure.
At other times, when I need calm and quiet, I choose nature sounds – like rain, birdsong, or the rustling of a forest. They create the feeling of being far away from everyday life, which is the perfect atmosphere for creating.
Sometimes I even listen to children’s songs or soundtracks from animations to tune into the wave of imagination and childlike joy. Music, for me, is like a backdrop that makes writing more vibrant and inspiring.
What other hobbies do you have outside of writing?
Outside of writing, I have several hobbies that recharge me and spark inspiration. One of my favorite activities is drawing. While I’m not a professional artist, I enjoy creating small illustrations or experimenting with colors. It helps me relax and often gives me new ideas for my books.
I also love spending time in nature – walks in the park or the forest are my way of escaping the noise of everyday life. They not only calm me but often inspire me to come up with new scenes or characters.
Another hobby of mine is cooking. I enjoy experimenting with new recipes and creating dishes that bring joy to my family. Cooking reminds me of writing – both require creativity, attention to detail, and the desire to create something that others will love.
And, of course, reading remains one of my greatest pleasures. It’s not only an inspiration for my writing but also a way to unwind and immerse myself in different worlds.
Do you have any personal connection to the story or characters?
Absolutely! The story in "The Magic Hat of Wimsy" is deeply connected to my life and personal experiences. The main idea for the book was born when I became an aunt to three wonderful little twins. Watching them grow and explore the world with curiosity and imagination inspired me to create a story that preserves that sense of magic and wonder.
Additionally, the upcoming birth of my first grandchild further motivated me to craft a book that entertains and conveys important lessons about self-confidence and believing in one’s abilities. The character Wimsy – the magical hat – represents the idea that magic resides within us, as long as we believe in ourselves. In a way, Wimsy is a personal metaphor for how we can turn ordinary moments into extraordinary ones.
This personal inspiration makes the story even more heartfelt and close to my heart. Every character in the book carries a little piece of me or the people I love.
https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0DKXG3TR1
What have you found to be most challenging about writing in [genre]?
The biggest challenge when writing children’s literature is finding the right balance between entertainment and meaning. When writing for children, you need to ensure that the story is engaging enough to hold their attention but also simple enough to be understandable. At the same time, it should convey important lessons that stay with them long after they’ve closed the book.
Another challenge is creating characters and situations that children can relate to. It’s essential to capture their perspective on the world – how they perceive friendship, family, adventures, and even fears. Additionally, I have to be careful not to sound preachy – children are very sensitive to that and prefer lessons to come naturally through the story.
And, of course, illustrations play a crucial role. They need not only to complement the text but also to tell their own story. Working with illustrators requires careful collaboration to ensure that the text and visuals come together in a harmonious way.
Do you identify with your main character or did you create a character that is your opposite?
I identify with my main character to some extent, but Wimsy – the magical hat – also represents qualities and ideas that I strive to embody or pass on to my readers. Wimsy is a symbol of self-confidence, belief in oneself, and the ability to see magic in everyday life – qualities that I believe everyone can discover within themselves, including me.
At the same time, Wimsy is not entirely like me. As an author, I created this character with the intention of making him an inspiration for children – someone who not only supports them but also helps them understand that they have the power to overcome challenges. In a way, Wimsy is a better version of myself – wise, fun, and always ready to lend a hand.
Would you like readers to have any specific takeaway from your book?
Yes, I would like readers – especially the children for whom the book is intended – to take away a few important lessons from "The Magic Hat of Wimsy." First and foremost, I want them to realize that magic is everywhere around us, but most importantly, it’s within us. Believing in yourself and your abilities is the key to overcoming difficulties and facing challenges with confidence.
Additionally, the story aims to show that each of us has the potential to be a hero – you don’t need superpowers or special talents to make a meaningful impact. Small gestures, good intentions, and the power of imagination are what truly make the world a better place.
Finally, I hope the book inspires children to dream big and believe that anything is possible. If "The Magic Hat of Wimsy" can make even one child feel braver or more self-assured, then I believe I’ve fulfilled my mission as an author.
As an author, what critique has been the most challenging for you to receive? On the other hand, what compliment has been the most rewarding?
One of the biggest challenges I’ve faced as a writer was addressing criticism about balancing entertainment and messaging in my stories. Early on, I received feedback that some of the themes in my books were too complex for the age group I was writing for. This made me reflect on how I could convey important lessons in a more accessible and natural way, so they would resonate with children without coming across as preachy or overly serious.
That critique motivated me to dig deeper into what truly resonates with kids – what excites them, what makes them laugh, and what inspires them. Through this process, I not only improved my writing but also learned how to connect more effectively with my audience.
On the other hand, the most rewarding compliment I’ve ever received came from parents who told me their children wanted to read my book over and over again. When I hear that a child has said, "This story is my favorite!" I feel an immense sense of joy. For me, that’s the highest form of recognition – knowing that my story has found a special place in someone’s heart.
Share some advice for aspiring authors. What advice would you give to your younger self?1. What is your favorite line from your book?
Advice for Aspiring Authors:
The most important advice I can give to aspiring authors is to trust your voice and your story. There will always be moments of doubt, but your perspective is unique and deserves to be shared. Don’t be afraid to experiment and make mistakes – writing is a process of learning and discovery.
Another tip is to read widely and diversely. Every book you read can teach you something new – whether it’s about structure, style, or inspiration. And finally, embrace feedback with an open heart. Criticism can be tough, but it’s an invaluable tool for growth.
Advice to My Younger Self:
To my younger self, I would say: “Don’t wait for the perfect moment to start. Just write the first word, the first page. Your story won’t be perfect from the start, but that doesn’t make it any less valuable.” I’d also encourage my younger self to be more confident and not be afraid to share their work with the world.
Favorite Quote from the Book:
My favorite quote from "The Magic Hat of Wimsy" is:
“The magic isn’t in the hat but in what you believe you can do when you wear it.”
This line captures the core message of the book – that the power and magic are always within us, as long as we believe in them.
What is your take on book boyfriends? Do they actually exist? Or do they set the bar for “real life men” impossibly high?
Book boyfriends can certainly seem unrealistic at times because they are often idealized versions of what readers imagine as the "perfect partner." That’s part of the magic of books – they allow us to dream and create characters that reflect our desires and aspirations.
At the same time, I think these characters are often inspired by real life. Many authors create their heroes based on people they’ve met or qualities they’ve seen in the partners of those around them. While these characters may appear flawless, they often have human traits that make them relatable to us.
Do they set the bar too high? Perhaps. But I don’t think that’s necessarily a bad thing – sometimes these "ideal" portrayals can inspire us to seek more respect, love, and support in our real-life relationships.
What do you like to do when you’re not writing?
When I’m not writing, I love spending time with my loved ones – especially with my family and my little nieces and nephews, who always surprise me with their imagination and energy. They’re often my inspiration and a reminder of the magic of childhood.
I also enjoy spending time in nature. There’s something so calming and rejuvenating about being surrounded by greenery or listening to the sound of birds. These moments make me feel connected to the world and often inspire new ideas for stories.
Another passion of mine is reading. I always have a book nearby – whether it’s classic literature, an inspiring biography, or a children’s fairy tale. Reading allows me to explore new worlds and learn new things. Additionally, I enjoy creative activities like drawing and crafting small projects – it helps me unwind and express my creativity in different ways.
Was there anything you had to research for the book?
Yes, even though "The Magic Hat of Wimsy" is a children’s story, I took the time to research several important aspects to make it even more impactful. First, I wanted to ensure that the themes of self-confidence and imagination were presented in a way that was suitable for the age group of 4 to 7 years old. I read many articles and books about child psychology and development during this period to understand how to best convey my message.
Additionally, I explored how magical elements, like a "magic hat," could stimulate children’s imagination. I spoke with parents and teachers to understand what kinds of stories children love and what themes inspire them. This helped me build a world that is not only fun and magical but also teaches children to believe in their own abilities.
The illustrations also required some research – I wanted the colors and images to be engaging and stimulating for young readers. In this process, I drew inspiration from classic children’s books, but I also aimed to bring something unique that would make "The Magic Hat of Wimsy" truly memorable.
Did you have any say in the cover design?
Yes, I was actively involved in the design of the cover because, for me, it’s a very important part of the overall reader experience. I wanted the cover of "The Magic Hat of Wimsy" to capture the magic and mood of the story while also appealing to children and their parents.
I worked closely with the illustrator to ensure that the colors, imagery, and composition conveyed the right message. For example, I insisted that the hat be the centerpiece of the cover to highlight its magical role in the story. Additionally, I wanted elements that spark imagination – bright stars, mysterious lights, or small details that children can discover while looking at the cover.
Although I’m not a professional designer, the process was incredibly inspiring. We exchanged ideas, reviewed sketches, and made adjustments until we were all happy with the final result. I firmly believe that the cover is more than just a visual representation – it’s an invitation for readers to dive into the magical world of the book.
What are you reading right now?
At the moment, I’m reading a few different books that inspire me in various ways. One of them is a collection of children’s fairy tales from different cultures – I love exploring how magic and morals are portrayed in different parts of the world. This inspires me as an author and gives me ideas on how to make my stories more universal and relatable to diverse audiences.
I’m also reading a book about creative writing because I believe there’s always something new to learn, even when you’ve already written a few books. I find it important to grow not only as a writer but also as a storyteller who inspires and connects with readers.
What can we anticipate from you moving forward?
In the future, I plan to continue creating stories that inspire and excite young readers. I’m currently working on a sequel to "The Magic Hat of Wimsy," where the characters will embark on new adventures filled with even more magic, friendship, and important life lessons. It will be an exciting journey that deepens readers' connection to the characters.
Additionally, I’m considering a new series of books focusing on overcoming challenges children face. Topics like fear of the dark, the first day of school, or learning new skills will be presented in a fun and supportive way.
At the same time, I’d like to explore other genres. I might start working on a story for older children, incorporating more adventure and fantasy elements. I’m also open to writing a book for adults, sharing deeper messages, but always with a touch of the magic that inspires me.
Regardless of the format, my main focus remains on creating books that touch hearts and inspire imagination.
Did you always want to be an author? If not, what did you want to be when you grew up?
I didn’t always imagine that I would become an author, even though stories and imagination have always been an important part of my life. As a child, I often got lost in books, drew, or created my little worlds, but my dreams for the future shifted over time.
When I was younger, I wanted to become a teacher because I loved the idea of helping children learn and discover new things. At one point, I dreamed of being an artist because I adored drawing and expressing my emotions through art. But there was always this feeling that I wanted to create – whether through words, colors, or ideas.
Over time, I realized that writing is the way I can combine all these passions. Through my books, I can teach, inspire, and create the magical worlds I loved so much as a child. Looking back now, becoming a writer feels like the natural continuation of everything I ever wanted to be.
Do you listen to music while you write? If so, what kind of music do you like to listen to?
Yes, I often listen to music while I write because it helps me focus and get into a creative mindset. The music I choose depends a lot on the mood of the scene I’m working on or the emotion I want to convey.
When I’m writing magical moments or scenes that need to inspire, I love listening to instrumental music – film soundtracks or compositions with piano and orchestra. Melodies from movies like "Harry Potter" or "The Lord of the Rings" inspire me to create worlds filled with magic and adventure.
At other times, when I need calm and quiet, I choose nature sounds – like rain, birdsong, or the rustling of a forest. They create the feeling of being far away from everyday life, which is the perfect atmosphere for creating.
Sometimes I even listen to children’s songs or soundtracks from animations to tune into the wave of imagination and childlike joy. Music, for me, is like a backdrop that makes writing more vibrant and inspiring.
What other hobbies do you have outside of writing?
Outside of writing, I have several hobbies that recharge me and spark inspiration. One of my favorite activities is drawing. While I’m not a professional artist, I enjoy creating small illustrations or experimenting with colors. It helps me relax and often gives me new ideas for my books.
I also love spending time in nature – walks in the park or the forest are my way of escaping the noise of everyday life. They not only calm me but often inspire me to come up with new scenes or characters.
Another hobby of mine is cooking. I enjoy experimenting with new recipes and creating dishes that bring joy to my family. Cooking reminds me of writing – both require creativity, attention to detail, and the desire to create something that others will love.
And, of course, reading remains one of my greatest pleasures. It’s not only an inspiration for my writing but also a way to unwind and immerse myself in different worlds.
Do you have any personal connection to the story or characters?
Absolutely! The story in "The Magic Hat of Wimsy" is deeply connected to my life and personal experiences. The main idea for the book was born when I became an aunt to three wonderful little twins. Watching them grow and explore the world with curiosity and imagination inspired me to create a story that preserves that sense of magic and wonder.
Additionally, the upcoming birth of my first grandchild further motivated me to craft a book that entertains and conveys important lessons about self-confidence and believing in one’s abilities. The character Wimsy – the magical hat – represents the idea that magic resides within us, as long as we believe in ourselves. In a way, Wimsy is a personal metaphor for how we can turn ordinary moments into extraordinary ones.
This personal inspiration makes the story even more heartfelt and close to my heart. Every character in the book carries a little piece of me or the people I love.