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 is going to 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 Moira Siobhan.
Tell us a little about yourself and how you came to write your first book.
I have always loved to write and love words! I work with children and can relate to them. I wrote this book hoping to make reading fun and get kids reading!
What inspired the idea for your book?
I love thinking of story ideas! This one came to me on a family vacation, I can still remember talking about it around our camp picnic table.
What part of the book was the most fun to write?
I liked thinking of things for a child's perspective...oh and the ending! There's a twist at the end.
How long did it take you to write this book?
Ages...life is busy! Probably a couple of years, with big gaps of nothingness for months, then a flurry of activity.
Has writing and publishing a book changed the way you see yourself?
It has opened a whole new world to me! I have met some amazingly supportive people and learnt so much. Just getting started.
Who has been the biggest supporter of your writing?
My family. They are hugely supportive of me always. My daughter Lyn is an amazing writer and we often share ideas and challenges. She was my first reader.
What books did you grow up reading?
So many! Authors like: Enid Blyton, Judy Blume, Beverly Cleary, CS Lewis, Laura Ingalls Wilder, Tolkien. So many books: Anne of Green Gables, Little Prince, Secret Garden... our house ways overflowing with books.
Would you share something about yourself that your readers don’t know (yet)?
Hmmm... I don't just write for middleschool age children. Though my first book is early chapter book aimed at 8-12yrs, I write all sorts of different things. I have started on YA novel, and an adult one (though much further behind), and have a picture book closer to finished. I also love writing poetry - words are awesome!
Anything you want to add?
I've had wonderful feedback from children, libraries and teachers. Thrilled it was used in a local classroom. Good discussion tool to look at bullying and challenge.
Where can our readers find you? (Website, Social Media, etc)
Website: Amazon
Facebook: Moira Siobhan
Instagram: @moirasiobhan.author
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