https://www.amazon.com/dp/1955063923/
Can you tell us a little about Kason and Kamden?
Kason and Kamden are now 10! I still can’t believe it as it
seems as if they were born just yesterday! They are twins born extremely
prematurely that have continued to flourish right before our eyes.
What motivated you to write the book?
It was important to me to write the book in honor of the
twins born prematurely after my husband and I’s bout with Infertility. I was
also motivated to write the book to help inspire other premature twins and to
help shine a light on the differences and similarities that everyone has. Children need to be reminded we are all
unique and special in our own ways, and that is OK.
What age group did you write the book for?
The book is appropriate for both children that can be read
to and for children to also read along. Thus, making it appropriate for
toddlers through 4th or 5th graders.
How long did it take you to write Kason and Kamden?
After honing in on the concept of the twins’ book, I decided
to use a ‘similarities and differences’ approach to laying out the book. Based
on that, I immediately started to list the things the twins had in common and
the ways in which they were different. That took only a few minutes actually 😊.
I then had a meeting, so to speak, with the boys to ensure they were Ok with
the categories. I also asked them to provide any add’l categories they wanted
to include as part of the comparison and contrast approach. All of that to say,
it probably only took 1 week or so to write the manuscript for the book.
How did you come up with the title for the book?
Easy! Just the twins’ names and a proud indication of their
own individuality while pointing out their identities that they are commonly
known for and as.
Did anything stick out as particularly challenging when
writing Kason and Kamden?
With the exception of trying to make sure we covered the
basic categories, like colors, clothing, food, etc, no real challenges stand
out.
What is the overall takeaway or message you’d like
readers of the book to have?
It is important for
the youth to be reminded of how important they are. They can do and be anything
they want to do or put their minds to. In order to accomplish any goal, they
must tap into their strengths, abilities, and that unique gift that makes them
special. If everyone is exactly alike, the world would be boring. That is why
we are all different and unique and that is OK!
Oftentimes, in
friend groups, families, classrooms, sports teams, etc, people want to compare
everyone to each other. There is also an inherent expectation for everyone to
be the same or think the same. That does not have to be the case all the time
and I want the young readers to know this and be reminded.
What do you like to do when not writing?
I actually love to
watch movies, preferably action and/or comedies. I enjoy relaxing with my
husband and children either at home or somewhere outside. I really get
satisfaction from being around other women, namely my sisters, nieces, moms,
friends, and all those close to me. I find peace in going to church or doing so
virtually. When I am feeling conflicted or unclear, a gentle reminder of my
faith gets me through and helps me regroup! I enjoy teaching and talking to
others as well. If I could help people get encouraged and motivated to be the
best version of themselves by helping them learn and believe in themselves
through advocacy each and every day, I would remain a very happy lady.
Where can readers find out more about your work?
The
best way to keep up with me and follow my journey to help is via my site: https://linktr.ee/mcduroseau; Instagram: @itllhappenbook;
Twitter: @LadyMarDuro
Thank
you for the opportunity to interview and learn more about my book.