Q1. Hello Ma’am, can you please introduce yourself? Readers would love to know more about you.
My name is Katie Reed and I am 29 years old. I worked at afterschool programs most of my career. When I graduated college, I became an afterschool program coordinator and ran my own site. I have also worked in a reading intervention program at a local public school for a couple years. When I had my son, I decided to stay at home for a while to be with him but I also decided to pursue my dream job as a children’s book author.
Q2. What were the key challenges you faced while writing ‘Wizard and the Lizard’ book?
I started writing Wizard and the Lizard when my son was 2 months old. I was very sleep deprived, which sometimes created a lack of motivation to write. However, I did get the idea for my Wizard and the Lizard books at 3:00 in the morning while feeding him. I just started writing notes into my phone, and felt inspired and motivated to write these books. Once I had the idea for the series, I was ready to write!
Q3. What books or authors have most influenced your own writing?
My son loves rhyming books. The Pout Pout Fish books are probably his favorite. I definitely got some motivation from The Pout Pout Fish series, as well as Tolkien. I love fantasy so I knew I wanted to write about magical characters.
Q4. What’s your favourite spot to visit in your own country? And what makes it so special to you?
I love the Olympic Peninsula in Washington State. My dad and I went there after my mom passed away when I was a kid. I loved how green it was and having the ocean there too. It is just a magical place.
Q5. Is there lots to do before you drive in and start writing a book?
I have to think of the overall message to get me motivated. Once I have that, I get inspired pretty quickly. Sometimes getting the rhymes right can be tricky as well. But I would not say there is a lot to do before I start writing.
Q6. How long did it take you to write ‘Wizard and the Lizard Wacky Weather’ book?
I wrote the drafts in 3 days for both books… However with editing, and working with an editor, it probably took a month (each) to complete the writing for both books.
Q7. On what all platforms readers can find your books to buy?
My books are available on Amazon in Paperback and Kindle formats.
Q8. Tell us about the process of coming up with the cover and the title of your books?
I wanted there to be some mystery that draws in readers with the cover. My first book: Wizard and the Lizard has a cover with Wizard and Buddy looking into a cauldron with green smoke coming out. My second book: Wizard and the Lizard: Wacky Weather has a picture of Wizard and Buddy looking out a window and pointing at something the audience can’t see. I want the readers to wonder what is in the cauldron and what Wizard and Buddy are pointing at out the window, hopefully enough to read them and find out.
Q9. When writing a book how do you keep things fresh, for both your readers and also yourself?
I like to use humor to draw in children and parents. It is also fun to laugh while writing it! I also hope my characters are silly and memorable for both children and adults.
Q10. Are there any secrets from the books (that aren’t in the blurb), you can share with your readers?
I am excited to announce I have a third book coming out in March! Follow me on Facebook at katiereedauthor and Instagram @wizardandthelizardauthor and check out my website katiereedauthor.com for free coloring sheets and updates on upcoming books!
Sassy Reviews 