Books develop and nourish kids’ imaginations, expanding their worlds. Picture books introduce young children to the world of art and literature. Novels and nonfiction books stimulate kids’ sensory awareness, helping kids to see, hear, taste, feel, and smell on an imagined level. Books inform our imaginations, inspiring creativity.
This Children's Book Author Spotlight Series will showcase independent children's book authors and their works. We strive to bring you the best there is to offer and an insight into the world of children's books!
This week we are featuring author Megan E. Mancini.
Tell us a little about yourself and how you came to write your first book.
Megan E. Mancini is a mother of two adorable, kind, and courageous children, Sophia and Leo. Her children's kindness, love for others, and zest for life never ceases to amaze her. In Megan's spare time she loves to spend time with her family and friends and write books!
A couple of years ago, during the start of the COVID-19 pandemic, Megan started jotting down some thoughts about finding joy in all situations. The media was saturated with sadness, illness, and uncertainty. However, there was occasionally stories about joy and hope, like when the people of an Italian village, under strict quarantine and isolation, all began to sing from their balconies TOGETHER! There is always joy and hope, you just have to look for it. One thing led to another and she wrote my debut children's books, "The Picture Puzzle".
The Camilla & Company children's book series is all about resiliency and being able to find a solution to every problem. Mental health is so important, especially for today's youth. The series encourages children to "come along" with Camilla while she explores and navigates different emotions with help from her aunt, Aunt Elle, and her puppy, Lady!
What inspired the idea for your book?
My children! I started just jotting down thoughts and ideas about how to find kindness and hope in sad situations because I wanted my children to know there is always hope and good in the world, you just need to look for them! Being positive and kind are so important and should be shared to all!
What part of the book was the most fun to write?
Creating the characters and sharing their thoughts and feelings with the world!
How long did it take you to write this book?
I would say about 6 months on and off from my initial ideas and concept to the finished product.
Has writing and publishing a book changed the way you see yourself?
It has in a way, yes! I am now aware the only thing or person who can hold me back is me. I am creative, I am innovative, and I can do whatever I allow myself to do! I am the only person who can give or take away my power.
Who has been the biggest supporter of your writing?
My family has been phenomenal and very supportive from the start of this journey! My husband, Gabe, has been extra amazing, though! He has been supportive of my dreams and lets me run wild with them!
What books did you grow up reading?
I have read a lot of different kinds of books through my life, but one of my favorite books growing up was "Muppet Babies Christmas Book" and anything Muppet Babies! My daughter now has my copy of "Muppet Babies Christmas Book" and it is one of her favorites!
Would you share something about yourself that your readers don’t know (yet)?
I am currently working on a novel about a young girl named Leo who lost her mother at a young age. Leo, much like Camilla, is trying to navigate different emotions and life experiences with help from her family!
Where can our readers find you? (Website, Social Media, etc)
Website: www.camillaandcompany.com
Instagram: https://instagram.com/megan.e.mancini
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