- Please introduce yourself so that the readers will get to know you better.
A1. My name is Travis Walcott, and I am a passionate new author dedicated to inspiring readers of all ages, especially children. I am currently an elementary school teacher, so working with and teaching children aligns with my vision. I’m on a mission to create stories that not only entertain but also educate and inspire. I believe books are a gateway to understanding the world and ourselves, and I am committed to spreading my work to as many readers as possible.
- What is the inspiration behind your book “Clumsy Clarence”?
A2. I always wanted to write a children’s book, but it was always hard to come up with an idea for what I wanted to write. I did know, however, that I wanted to deliver a positive message in a way that children can understand and relate to. The idea for this book finally came to me when I had a student who had a few clumsy moments, but she always tried her best. It was great to see that although she made a few mistakes, she never gave up. I wanted more children to understand that mistakes are okay and mistakes are proof that you are trying. Also, I wanted to deliver the message of perseverance, self-confidence, love and care to readers of all ages. In addition, being a Black male, I wanted other black boys and girls to see me and know that they can achieve the same thing and more.
- When did you realize you want to be an author?
A3. I always had a passion to write and create stories, but I never actually imagined becoming an author. The thought of publishing a book came to me around 2018 when I finally realized that I wanted to get my stories out to the world. I thought it would be amazing and rewarding to finally have my stories come to life. Having children all over the world read my book is a great feeling to have, and an even better feeling seeing my students read it and see that their teacher was able to write a book!
- Please tell us something about your book “Clumsy Clarence”?
A4. This book “Clumsy Clarence” was written for readers of all ages to inspire and motivate them to be their best selves. I see Clarence as a younger version of myself. I wanted this story to resonate with readers so that it can be a fun reading experience.
- For which age group is your book “Clumsy Clarence” suitable for?
A5. 5 and up
- What is your favorite Quote?
A6. One of my favorite quotes is actually from a well known author named Dr. Seuss. The quote is “The more that you read, the more you will know. The more that you learn, the more places you will go.” This quote resonates with me because reading opens so many doors for you, and you can do/become anything that you want to be.
- What do you like the most about your country?
A7. I like the fact that libraries are available to everyone and that there is a safe, quiet place to respect books and reading.
- What suggestion do you want to give to parents of little readers regarding a reading habit?
A8. I would suggest that they have their readers explore different kinds of books to build their interests. Building an interest will encourage them to read more books on a topic they would enjoy. I also suggest plugging in some time daily to read for a bit. Reading bedtime stories with your child will also increase the habit of reading.
- What does literary success look like to you?
A9. Literary success to me can be a number of things, but the top aspects are commercial success, the impact my book has on readers, building a community with people who want to share or relate to my stories, longevity, and the impact it can have on students educationally. Lastly and most importantly, it would give me a sense of personal fulfillment that I was to achieve something like this.
- Lastly, who is your inspiration in life and why?
A10. My inspiration is my one year old son who I do everything for. When he’s older, I want him to see all the accomplishments that I was able to achieve so that he can be inspired by what I do. I hope that he’s able to pursue his dreams like I was able to. I want to create a legacy for him as well along with any future children I may have.
Buy Clumsy Clarence on Amazon
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