1. Please introduce yourself so that the readers will get to know you better.
A1. Before embarking on my writing journey, I earned a B.A. in Speech and Drama and pursued a career in the entertainment industry. Guided by my “DIY” spirit, I created, wrote, illustrated, and self-published The Adventures of the Popcorn Kids. I am a proud native of New Orleans and a former certified early childhood educator. Despite my struggle with severe narcolepsy, I have worn many hats as a Flight Attendant, On-Air Radio Personality, Paralegal, and Attorney in-Fact. Although my career path has been diverse, I believe that every opportunity was essential to my personal growth and creativity.
2. What is the inspiration behind your book “The Adventures of The Popcorn Kids”?
A2. When I began teaching, I was offered a position at my old grammar school which was located in a low income area. I was inspired to write this book, because I wanted my students to know that the “Hood” was not the entire world. I knew that I could not take the students out of the hood to see this “great big world”. So, I created THE ADVENTURES OF THE POPCORN KIDS to bring the “great big world” to the hood.
In this culturally diverse society, it is imperative that our young children are educated at an early age about the vast number of cultures and ethnicities that exist around the world and in our community. Teaching young children to respect other cultures and identities is essential to the progress of our communities and nation as a whole.
3. When did you realize you want to be an author?
A3. When I was in 5th grade, my mom gave me a Holly Hobby diary and I wrote in it every day. I loved to write and I was fascinated with books. The Book Mobile would come once a month and I just could not wait to check out the new book from Judy Blume. Because of my vivid imagination and love for the theatre, I knew that I wanted to be an author.
By the time I graduated from college, I had written dozens of unpublished songs, poems, short plays and movie scripts. But finding a publisher back when there was no high speed internet, was nearly impossible. It was not until Self Publishing became popular, that I realized that my dreams of becoming a “published” author was possible.
4. Please tell us something about your book “The Adventures of The Popcorn Kids”.
A4. The Popcorn Kids is an Early Childhood Value Book that gives a subtle introduction to five important social constructs: 1.) Anti-bullying 2.) Cultural Diversity 3.) Teamwork 4.) Acceptance and 5.) Positive Thinking. The (8) bright neon colored characters are the personification of little children from all around the world ages (5) to (7).
Each character has a distinct place of origin, ethnicity, personality and talent. However, the one thing that they do share in common, is that they were all “popped”(born) in America! Through acceptance, respect and teamwork, the Popcorn Kids develop a great friendship. Together they experience fun-filled adventures, while fighting bullies along the way. The book is now available on Amazon at https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0F9FRJV7X
5. For which age group is your book “The Adventures of The Popcorn Kids?
A5. When I created The Popcorn Kids, my main focus was writing for Pre-K and Kindergarten students. Although the reading skills level of the manuscript would be categorized as a Level 1, the cognitive thinking concept and message can typically be appropriate for toddlers to third graders.
The Popcorn Kids were meant to be loved by children of all ages. Therefore, I created an animation film for small children who aren’t able to read and those who struggle to read. The animation film is entitled: THE OFFICIAL ADVENTURES OF THE POPCORN KIDS. The (3) minute film brings the Popcorn Kids story to life. It is currently available on Youtube:
THE OFFICIALS ADVENTURES OF THE POPCORN KIDS.
https://youtu.be/FAR0j9LOsZw?si=1S4Wfe-THvK4tAw6
6. What is your favorite Quote?
A6. When I was in second grade, my favorite teacher posted several sayings throughout the classroom. But there is one quote that still resonates with me today. That quote is “Failling To Prepare .. Is Preparing To Fail.” The reason it is my favorite is because it can literally be applied to any one of life’s situations. It is self explanatory and simple. But yet so meaningful.
7. What do you like the most about your country?
A7. What I love most about America is that it is the only country in the world that permits people of all races, genders, religions, creeds and cultures, the opportunity to apply for legal citizenship. It is the land of milk & honey, freedom of speech and the home of the brave. My family has been here for hundreds of years. America is home to the most fluential and successful people that ever lived. I could never imagine living anywhere else.
8. What suggestion do you want to give to parents of little readers regarding a reading habit?
A8. One of the greatest gifts a parent can give to a child is a “good reading habit”. In general, children typically have a low attention span based on their age bracket. Therefore, I would suggest the following: First, designate a quiet reading space. Second, choose a specific time and stick to it! Good habits are derived from repetition and routines. Next, keep your reading time under (15) minutes. Try to provide visuals that coincide with the storybook whenever possible. For example: If the story is about a bunny, then allow the child to hold a stuffed bunny during story time. You may reflect on teaching moments at the end. But always remember to make it fun!
9. What does literary success look like to you?
A9. Literary success to me is achieving my goal of making The Popcorn Kids a household name. Let’s face it, every author dreams of the day when their book gets listed on The New York Times Best Sellers Lists. Or better yet, get offered a major distribution or movie deal. Until my ultimate vision of literary success becomes my reality, I will continue “Doing what I love and loving what I do”. While eating a great big bag of POPCORN.
10. Lastly, who is your inspiration in life and why?
A10. My greatest inspiration in life comes from my very own little Popcorn Kid, my daughter Melody Joi! Everything I do in life is in preparation of securing a bright prosperous future for her. Children are our most precious gifts and we should treat them that way. My parents instilled values worth more than gold within me and my (8) siblings. If I succeed in instilling those same inspirational values into my daughter, then I have achieved one of life’s greatest accomplishments.
