There Are Days (Author Interview)

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Can you tell us a little about There Are Days?

There Are Days is a celebration of humanity and the many feelings that we express on a daily basis. The story seeks to honor those that join us to help make our days the best that they can be. This includes parents, grandparents, siblings, teachers, coaches, and more. “Every day is different and every day is special when you spend it with someone you love.”

What motivated you to write the book?

As an early childhood educator, I see the importance of children developing socially and emotionally as well as academically. Books have an amazing way of helping students develop empathy and understanding.  I was motivated to write this book so that children could understand that they are not alone, no matter how they are feeling. There are adults who care for them and can help them make the best of any situation.

What age group did you write the book for?

This book is written for children that are in elementary school, primarily 5 to 8 years old.

How long did it take you to write There Are Days?

There Are Days took approximately two years from start to finish. This included time to collaborate with the talented illustrator, Breanna Matthews.

How did you come up with the title for the book?

I felt that There Are Days embodied the overall message of the book. You often hear people say, “It’s been THAT kind of day.” Or “Wow, what a day!” There Are Days embodies that message that some days are amazing and some days are not so amazing, but every day is unique.

Did anything stick out as particularly challenging when writing There Are Days?

When writing There Are Days, one of the unique challenges was to make sure that every child could feel represented in this book. I wanted the message to apply to ALL children. I worked with Breanna (illustrator) to create a truly diverse book that I’m very proud to call my own. Any time that I have read this book to a new group of children, every child can identify someone that they love within the pages.

What do you like to do when not writing?

When I am not writing, I enjoy spending time with my family. I married my wife in 2016 and we have welcomed two beautiful girls into the world since then. We have also fostered five amazing little boys through the foster care system. Being with my family brings me great joy!

I also love educating. I have been a teacher since 2011 and I continue to love what I do. I started as an early childhood teacher in 1st grade. Since then, I have taught students from 1st through 5th grades. I am now an Assistant Principal in an elementary school. I know that teaching/leading was a calling placed on my life and I am honored to serve in this capacity.

Where can readers find out more about your work?

Readers can find out more about my work on my author website www.justinvaughn.com. They can also follow me on Social Media at: Facebook: www.fb.com/justinvaughnbooks , Instagram: @justinvaughnbooks , TikTok: @JustinVaughnBooks.