Kathryn Starke is an elementary school literacy specialist and knows a thing or two about motivating kids to read. She is also an author of a children’s book called Amy Travels and share some thoughts about reading previously on this blog; Why Read.
Kathryn shares her insights on picture books for kids and the book publishing industry.
1. When did you first realize you wanted to be a writer?
When I was teaching second grade, I realized the school textbooks were difficult for my students to read and very mundane. I started writing stories on topics we had to teach, such as the seven continents six years ago and wrote my first children’s book, Amy’s Travels.
2. How long does it take you to write a book?
I had told the story of Amy’s Travels for several years before I actually wrote it to submit to a publishing company. I spent 6 months writing, editing, and rewriting my first published book.
3. Where do you get your information or ideas for your books?
There are no children’s picture books about the seven continents; Amy’s Travels is the first. The story is based on the childhood memories of my dear friend Amy.
4. When did you write your first book and how old were you?
I wrote my very first book when I was five-years-old for the Young Author’s contest. I wrote my first published children’s book when I was twenty-four-years-old.
5. What do you like to do when you’re not writing?
I’m an elementary school literacy specialist and the founder/CEO of Creative Minds Publications and Consulting, so I’m usually visiting a school or working with students and teachers in all aspects of reading.
6. How many books have you written? Which is your favorite?
Amy’s Travels is my first, and it will be released in its second edition this spring.
7. What is your perspective on the present and the future of publishing industry from the view of a published author?
Children love books and can’t wait to learn to read! While we see more e-books in adult literature, children’s picture books will continued to be published, sold, and appreciated.
8. What advice do you have for aspiring children’s book authors?
Everyone has a story to tell, and it’s important to write your story that will engage and educate our young children.
Thanks Kathryn!
