Xander's Story, looks like a great and helpful children's book aimed at a specific target market. Any plans for similar educational books?
Yes, we have two upcoming projects in the works. One is the story of Xander’s baby brother, Max. This project will focus on adoption. The second project focuses on a little girl who celebrates her naturally curly hair through creative adventures with her trustworthy sidekicks.
What do you think makes a great children's educational book?
A great children’s educational book must reach out to two key audiences: 1) the child; and, 2) the parent/guardian.
A well illustrated book will capture a child’s attention while a thoughtful approach to story telling will keep both the child and the parent engaged.
What inspired you when writing Xander's Story?
Our son takes full responsibility for inspiration. Having two dads, he began to ask questions shortly after he turned four. We didn’t want to just tell him his story – we wanted to celebrate it. What better way to celebrate your story than a book that is written specifically about you. The book was created as a gift for his 5th birthday.
What are your ambitions for your writing career? Full time? Part time?
My husband and I will continue to write books for children that focus on life events and daily challenges.
He will continue to collaborate on the projects; however, as an attorney, his time is limited.
I am a recently retired Healthcare executive who will balance my writing with raising our two extraordinary boys.
When did you decide to become a writer?
Although our professions require us to write on a daily basis, the professional writing tends to have a heavier technical slant vs. a creative approach.
We both have been amateur creative writers our entire lives. Our first Christmas gifts to one another were written creative pieces.
The creative writing garden really started to bloom after children.
When writing Xander's Story did anything stand out as particularly challenging?
Because the subject matter was so dear to us the project flowed smoothly. What required the most thought was taking the complicated scientific process of gestational surrogacy and simplifying into a way that a five year old will understand.
What do you like to do when not writing?
We have two young boys, 5 and 4 months. That pretty much occupies all free time.
Our website is currently under construction: www.xanmaxbooks.com