Interview with author Faith Spencer

Please introduce yourself so that the readers will get to know you better.

Hello, my name is Faith Spencer. I have authored multiple children’s books, however, “CLUCK THAT” holds a special place in my heart. From a young age, I have been passionate about storytelling and art. In fact, during fourth grade, I even attended art classes at the University of Irvine. Despite earning an associate degree in Graphic Design and a Ph.D. in Marketing, I never imagined myself becoming a children’s book author. However, as a grandmother and homeschool teacher, my perspective on life has changed. It has always been a dream of mine to write books, although I originally envisioned myself writing a novel. ha ha .. In 2018, I wrote “Discover the Power of “I Am”: Children’s Mantras” and from that moment, I realized that my passion lies in both writing and art.

What is your inspiration behind your book “Cluck That”?

The book Cluck That features several sources of inspiration. The character of Sassy was influenced by my daughter Ashley’s attitude, while the idea of raising a chicken came from my son and daughter-in-law. There’s even a point in the book where a sign reading WPFRD appears, which stands for the fire department where my son works. The Polakof House mentioned on the sign is the direction of their home, and Kona is their German shepherd who appears at the end of the story with my daughter-in-law. The motivation to bring the story to life is my granddaughter’s love for chickens and her strong sense of self at just four years old. I wanted to address the issue of bullying after my son with autism was attacked by his aggressor and had to be pulled from public school to be homeschooled. It was enjoyable to draw inspiration from my family for this book.

When did you realize you want to be an author?

As a child, I had a fascination with writing that I didn’t fully understand until later. I recall being on a movie set with my parents, watching as my dad explained the reasoning behind the lines he had written for the actors. It was then that I realized how much vision he had for his work. Despite this, I never considered writing seriously because my sister and I would act out our elaborate storylines while playing with Barbie dolls. That was our outlet for creative thinking. Looking back, I wish I had kept some of those stories as inspiration.

Please tell us something about your book “Cluck That”?

“Cluck That” is an empowering story that aims to help readers realize that it’s okay to be different in our own unique ways. We should always stay true to ourselves and be authentic, as this will help others appreciate and like us for who we truly are.

For which age group is your book “Cluck That” suitable for?

Initially, I wrote the book for children between the ages of 5-10. However, it seems that people of all ages are finding it enjoyable. I had the pleasure of reading it to a teenage boy who was kind enough to listen. As I read, I observed his face lighting up with giggles and smiles. My husband also shared it with his coworkers, who appreciated my choice of words.

What is your favorite Quote?

Wow, that’s a tough question. I thoroughly enjoyed writing this book and had a lot of fun doing it. However, if I had to choose one that I believe would resonate with readers of all ages, it would be “I love this farm and I am ok to be me!”

What do you like the most about your country?

I am grateful to live in a country where women are given the freedom to express their opinions. I appreciate the existence of laws that protect our right to free speech. Unlike Mary Ann Evans, who had to conceal her identity as George Eliot, I’m fortunate to feel comfortable using my own name.

What suggestion do you want to give to parents of little readers regarding a reading habit?

A great way to promote reading skills in children is by inviting them to read with you every day. When reading a book with a large print, it can be helpful to point out each word as you read. Repeating a child’s favorite book can also be beneficial, as well as reading stories with rhyming words and repeating lines. Discussing new vocabulary words can also help expand their knowledge. Books that include bright pictures can help keep your child interested. LASTLY Take your time with them because they won’t be small forever. You’ll miss these moments one day.

What does literary success look like to you?

Success, to me, is receiving a copy of my book in the mail and reading it to my beloved grandchildren. It’s a moment of pure joy when they exclaim, “You wrote this for me!” and I get to reply with confidence, “You Betcha!”

Lastly, who is your inspiration in life and why?

Wow, this is a tough question. Although my parents have always been a great support for me, I have to admit that it is Judy Garland who has helped me through all the ups and downs of life. It’s her quote “Always be a first-rate version of yourself, instead of a second-rate version of somebody else.”

Buy Cluck That on Amazon