Kevin Cripe, an accomplished author of three children's books, shares his insights on the process and inspiration behind his latest work, "Princess Max Conquers the World."

With a background in education spanning 27 years, Kevin's passion for storytelling was ignited during his teaching days, where he found joy in reading to children and witnessing their reactions to stories. He recounts the pivotal moments that motivated him to write, including his observations of societal issues and the unique experiences of his adopted children.

His experience with his adopted children from Guatemala profoundly influenced his writingallowing him to address complex social issues in a manner accessible to young readers.

The episode also highlights the importance of engaging children through literature, emphasizing how stories can serve as a catalyst for discussions about diversity, empathy, and understanding in today's world.

Central to our discussion is the notion of embracing individuality and the importance of acceptance in a diverse society, themes which resonate throughout his trilogy, the Child Moral Development Trilogy.

The conversation unveils the inspiration behind his trilogy, which includes titles such as "The Good War" and "The Little Boy Who Cried Hoax." Kevin discusses the intricate themes woven into his narratives, exploring topics such as race, acceptance, and the moral development of children.

As we delve deeper into his literary journey, listeners will find a compelling narrative that highlights the significance of fostering a culture of understanding and empathy among young readers.

• Kevin Cripe is an accomplished author of three children's books, including a trilogy focusing on moral development.
• The podcast delves into the significance of children's literature in fostering connections between parents and their children.
• Kevin's experiences as a teacher influenced his writing, particularly in promoting acceptance and understanding among children.
• The themes of his books address complex social issues, aiming to engage children in meaningful discussions about diversity and identity.

• http://www.kevincripemotivationalspeaker.store/
• https://www.amazon.com/Princess-Conquers-World-Kevin-Cripe-ebook/dp/B0CS37RLYM?ref_=ast_author_dp&th=1&psc=1

Mentioned in this episode:

Midroll

Why Fables Still Matter: Timeless Lessons for Today's Kids

Patti Bonesteel, an accomplished author of six children's books, articulates her journey of writing and the profound significance it holds in her life.

Central to our discussion is her book, "The Flamingo with Two Left Feet," which not only showcases her storytelling prowess but also emphasizes the themes of perseverance and self-acceptance.

The narrative revolves around Fernando, a flamingo grappling with self-doubt due to his unique predicament, and his eventual realization that individual differences can be celebrated rather than shunned.

We delve into the motivations behind her writing, which stem from her extensive experience as an elementary school teacher, reinforcing the notion that education can transcend traditional boundaries through literature.

Patti's commitment to crafting research-based narratives that captivate young readers while imparting valuable lessons underscores her dedication to the literary craft and her desire to inspire the next generation.

Throughout the episode, Bonesteel addresses the challenges of the publishing industry, specifically, the transition from independent publishing to hybrid models.

Patti shares practical insights on marketing her books, underscoring the significance of community involvement and personal connections in promoting her work. By participating in school visits and book talks, she cultivates relationships with her audience, which she regards as essential for a successful authorial career.

Through her narrative, she inspires aspiring authors to embrace their passion for storytelling and to remain dedicated to their craft, reinforcing the notion that children's literature can be both educational and profoundly impactful.

The conversation culminates in a reflection on the essence of success in writing, where Patti expresses that the true reward lies in the joy of seeing her books come to life and the impact they have on children.

Takeaways:

• Patti Bonesteel emphasizes the importance of research in crafting children's stories, ensuring factual accuracy and educational value.
• Her journey as a children's book author began after her retirement, motivated by a desire to continue teaching through storytelling.
• The creation of her book, 'The Flamingo with Two Left Feet', was inspired by the fascinating behaviors of flamingos, particularly their mating dances.
• Patti believes that humor and patience are essential qualities that resonate with children, helping them relate to her characters.
• She engages with her audience through school visits, where she shares her books and encourages children to participate in storytelling.
• Patti's books utilize animal perspectives to convey meaningful messages, making learning enjoyable for young readers.

Links referenced in this episode:

• fablesbypattibonesteel.com
• amazon.com
• barnesandnoble.com

Companies mentioned in this episode:

• Amazon
• Barnes and Noble
• Bookside Press
• Austin McCully

Episode 88

Jacqueline K. Boylan's profound work, "A Broken Twig Can Sprout," serves as the focal point of our discussion, encapsulating her journey from personal trauma to literary creation.

As a children's author, Jacqueline articulates the vital message that adverse childhood experiences do not have to define one's future; rather, they can cultivate resilience and growth.

Throughout the episode, we delve into Jacqueline's inspiring background, which includes overcoming significant childhood challenges, including the loss of both parents and the impact of familial abuse.

Her narrative not only provides insight into her creative process but also emphasizes the therapeutic nature of writing, particularly in addressing complex themes such as trauma and recovery.

As we explore the nuances of her book and her aspirations for future works, it becomes evident that Jacqueline's mission extends beyond storytelling; she aims to foster understanding and healing in young readers grappling with similar adversities.

In a compelling discussion, Jacqueline K. Boylan elaborates on the inspiration behind her children’s book, "A Broken Twig Can Sprout," revealing how her personal history shaped her creative process.

She articulates the pivotal moments in her life, particularly the nurturing influence of her greatgrandmother, juxtaposed against the backdrop of familial substance abuse and loss.

Jacqueline describes how her foray into writing was therapeutic, stemming from a desire to communicate with her younger self and reassure her that the trauma she experienced was not her fault.

The podcast explores the intricacies of her writing journey, including the challenges of publishing and marketing her book as an indie author.

Jacqueline's insights into the business aspect of being a children's author are invaluable, highlighting her efforts to create a supportive community through her nonprofit organization aimed at helping children cope with trauma.

The episode resonates with listeners through Jacqueline’s genuine commitment to fostering resilience in children, making it a poignant addition to the discourse on childhood trauma and healing.

• The podcast features an insightful conversation with Jacqueline K. Boylan, author of the children's book 'A Broken Twig Can Sprout', where she shares her journey as a writer.
• Jacqueline discusses the profound influence of her grandmother, who played a pivotal role in her childhood, shaping her ability to overcome adversity and trauma.
• The theme of the book revolves around resilience, emphasizing that traumatic experiences do not define a child's future and that healing is possible with the right support.
• Jacqueline's writing process is deeply personal, rooted in her own experiences with loss and emotional turmoil, making her work relatable to both children and adults alike.
• She aims to develop a curriculum to educate adults on how to support traumatized children, underscoring the importance of understanding adverse childhood experiences.
• The podcast highlights the significance of educators and caregivers in a child's life, as they can be instrumental in providing the support needed for emotional growth and recovery.

• helpmesprout.org
• resiliencyhouse.org

• Amazon
• IngramSpark
• Help Me Sprout
• Resiliency Publishing House
• Book Vault