The Witch’s Family follows a compassionate Witch who takes in problematic animals that in turn help her when she needs it. What was the inspiration for your story?

My own pets definitely inspired the characters. The problems the pets have in the book are real life problems that I’ve dealt with rescuing animals of all species. Most people wouldn’t believe the problems I’ve seen rescued animals have. On occasion I’ve taken on too many or too much, so I wanted to write that into a relatable character.

The art in this book is fantastic. What was the art collaboration process like with illustrator Penny Nicoles?

The collaboration process was actually so much easier than I was expecting – probably because I didn’t have a specific idea about how my illustrations should look. I went into the project with a pretty open mind. I was looking at sourcing art from artists in other countries, when my grandmother brought me a book an acquaintance had published. Penny was the illustrator. I checked out her art, and I was instantly hooked. She took a ton of creative license, but I loved all of it. She is a wonderful human and a fabulous artist, so I highly recommend that everyone checks out her work. I really lucked out in finding her.

What were some ideas that were important for you to share in this book?

The first important aspect of the story is that these animals have problems, but are full of love. The big Black Dog in the book is based off my dog in real life, who recently passed away. She was a loud neurotic creature, but more dedicated to my family than anything. She quite literally saved my life more than once. Rescued pets may not be perfect, but they are all deserving of a caring home.

The second important aspect is that families come in more than one configuration. It doesn’t have to be the standard nuclear family with a white picket fence. Families don’t have to be blood related. The witch obviously has relatives, but the animals are the family she’s chosen, as well as her friends.

The third and most important aspect is the topic of mental health. I wanted to portray burnout and depression as a child would see it. It’s not a red-eyed monster in the closet; sometimes it’s working yourself too hard in order to avoid the icky feelings, and sometimes it’s staying in bed. I wanted to portray it as serious, but in a gentle way. In the story, the Witch’s family rallies around to support her through her illness, which is what we need to do in real life.

What is the next book that you are working on and when will it be available?

I actually have five more stories ready to go to an editor, so I’m hoping to be in production on the next one by the end of 2023. It would be ideal if I could publish a book every year, but we’ll see what the future holds. The next book will definitely continue with the character of the Witch, but will have a different message. I like to think my stories have lessons that will impact readers, even in the tiniest way. I’m undecided which story will be next, but I think it will be even better!

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