End of year gratitude 🧡
Book Club For Kids Podcast
At the beginning of the year, I felt uncertain about what to expect and how everything would turn out. I had some worries about the school I've been a part of for so many years, especially since they were facing financial struggles and teetering on the edge of bankruptcy. To keep my spirits up, I made a wish list of things I wanted to accomplish and learn as an author and independent artist.
Now that we're wrapping up the year, I have to admit that I haven't checked off many items from my to-do list. But you know what? I've come to understand that a lot of the goals I'm aiming for will take more than just a year to achieve. It's all a journey that requires patient and nurturing.
Developing and writing new book ideas is going to take some time, as will growing the sales of my online store. And that's okay with me! I'm looking forward to the process and what's to come.
What I appreciate the most are all the wonderful surprises and blessings that came my way this year! I was so excited to reconnect with both old friends and new faces in the book community. Diving into thrilling new book projects was a blast, and I can't express how much it warmed my heart to see the love for Marshmallow and Jordan from readers. Plus, I'm over the moon that the book earned its advance! Each of these moments filled me with joy and inspired me to keep moving forward on this amazing journey.
I want to express my heartfelt thank you to everyone who loved Marshmallow and Jordan. Your support means the world to me! I'm currently working hard on a new graphic novel, and while it's been a bit of a journey with its ups and downs, your enthusiasm for my books has kept me going! I am incredibly grateful to all the schools and libraries that have included Marshmallow and Jordan in their Battle of the Books program, as well as for the nomination for the Bluestem State Book Award for 2024-2025 - Thank you!
Oh, and I have some exciting news! Book Club for Kids recently released a special podcast for Marshmallow and Jordan, featuring a reading by celebrity reader Ailsa Chang, who hosts NPR's "All Things Considered." I can't wait for you all to check it out!
For readers and students joining in on Battle of the Books with Marshmallow and Jordan, I have something special for you! I’ve compiled all the Marshmallow and Jordan stories, along with some fun behind-the-scenes videos and notes. I hope you find this helpful. Enjoy exploring everything, and happy reading!
Click the link to access the Marshmallow and Jordan archive.
I also reorganized all my posts for readers interested in learning more about picture books, author interviews, and illustration art tips. I will continue to expand the content in each collection in the future!
I can’t wait to share more about my new graphic novel, but for now, I have to keep the details under wraps. Here’s a sneak peek of the background from the book! The architecture is inspired by the stunning ancient capital of China during the Tang Dynasty's golden age.
Marshmallow and Jordan begins the first page with an illustration of Canang Sari.
Canang Sari is a daily offering made by Balinese Hindus to show their appreciation for the divine. The word "Canang" comes from the Kawi language and is made up of two parts: "ca," which means beautiful, and "nang," which means purpose. It’s such a lovely tradition to express gratitude.
And I will wrap up the last Substack post of the year with a Canang Sari.
I wish everyone a Happy New Year!
Congrats on earning out—yahoo!