Hey there, book lovers and aspiring authors! It's Rella B here, and boy, do I have a story for you! Grab your favorite snack and get comfy, because we're about to dive into the wild and wonderful world of children's literature.
You know, being a kid lit author is like having a superpower. One minute you're scribbling ideas on a napkin, and the next, you're watching a child's eyes light up as they read your book. It's pure magic! But let me tell you, this journey has been more twisty-turny than a roller coaster ride at the county fair.
As a former educator in the Washoe County School District, I thought I knew a thing or two about engaging kids. But writing books? That's a whole new ballgame! I quickly learned that the key to success isn't just about crafting a great story – it's about connecting with your readers, both on and off the page. That is why I have decided to coin myself as... an Authortainer!
That's where my passion for author visits comes in. Picture this: a gymnasium full of wide-eyed kiddos, all eager to hear about the adventures of shapes that can eat or a little girl who just got her first dollar. It's like a party where books are the guests of honor! I bring games, activities, felt boards, smash mats, and enough energy to power a small city. And let me tell you, seeing those little faces light up when they realize reading can be fun? It's better than finding an extra cookie in your lunchbox!
But here's the thing – being an author isn't just about writing books and doing school visits. It's about building a community, nurturing relationships, and constantly learning. That's why I've made it my mission to help other authors navigate this crazy, wonderful world of kid lit.
You see, I've learned a thing or two on this journey. Like how to create evergreen content that keeps your books flying off the shelves long after the initial launch buzz. Or how to nurture a mailing list that's more loyal than a puppy. And don't even get me started on standing out in a crowd – I've got more tricks up my sleeve than a magician at the LA magic castle!
One of my favorite things to do is coach other authors. It's like being a fairy godmother, but instead of turning pumpkins into carriages, I'm helping turn ideas into bestsellers. We brainstorm, we strategize, and sometimes, we even have dance parties (because who says writing can't be fun?).
Now, I know what you're thinking. "Rella, this all sounds great, but how do you do it?" Well, my friends, it's all about embracing your inner child. Remember when you were a kid and everything was an adventure? That's the spirit I bring to my writing, my author visits, and my coaching.
Take my "If Shapes" series, for example. It all started with a simple thought: "What if shapes represented us, all unique, different colors and sizes?" Next thing I knew, I was creating a world where rhombuses could be jealous of hexagons and triangles could dream of being movie stars. It's silly, it's fun, and it teaches kids about diversity and acceptance without them even realizing it. Sneaky, right?
Or how about my "Mama, I" series? These books tackle big emotions and life experiences through the eyes of a little girl. From getting a new puppy to dealing with a boo-boo, these stories give parents and kids a way to talk about important topics. Because let's face it, sometimes the hardest conversations are the most important ones.
But here's the real secret sauce – it's not just about the books. It's about creating an experience. That's why I pour my heart and soul into my author visits. We don't just read the book; we live it! We play shape-themed games, we act out scenarios, we even sing and have dance-offs (because why not?). By the time I leave, those kids aren't just excited about my books – they're excited about reading, period!
And you know what? That excitement is contagious. It spreads to the teachers, to the parents, and before you know it, you've got a whole community buzzing about books. That's the kind of ripple effect that can change lives.
So, whether I'm writing a new story, recording my podcast, filming for youtube, planning an author visit, or coaching a fellow writer, I always keep one thing in mind: never stop reading. Because reading isn't just about words on a page – it's about opening doors, sparking imaginations, and changing the world, one story at a time.
To all you aspiring authors out there, remember this: your story matters. Your voice matters. And with a little creativity, a lot of hard work, and maybe a dance party or two, you can make magic happen.
So, what are you waiting for? Grab that pen, fire up that imagination, and let's make some literary magic together! Because in the world of kid lit, the only limit is your imagination – and trust me, that's no limit at all!
Find more at https://rellabbooks.com/
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Article published in The Relatable Voice Magazine - November 2024. Downolad the full magazine at:
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