In The Christmas Kittens, readers are treated to photos and rhymes that convey the warmth and joy of the Christmas season. What inspired you to write this book?

The inspiration for The Christmas Kittens came from wanting to create a lasting memory for my children, capturing the special time we shared during the pandemic while caring for six adorable kittens. It was such a fun and joyful experience that I wanted to preserve it in a way they could revisit and cherish. The idea of combining the festive magic of Christmas with the playful antics of kittens seemed like the perfect blend for a heartwarming story. A fun fact—one of the white curly kittens stayed with us, and my children named him Inteleon, after the Pokémon character!

I love the idea of using photos to illustrate poetry. Can you tell us a little about the process of getting that “just-right” picture?

It was a combination of patience, creativity, and a bit of luck! My children and I created a Christmas house for the kittens using a cardboard box, complete with a brick backdrop and a cozy fireplace, all using printed materials. We decorated the house with festive touches like a mini Christmas tree, a ceramic Mrs. Claus with her gingerbread cookies, and cotton-ball snow. While my kids played with the kittens, I snapped many shots, trying to capture that perfect moment of joy and playfulness. The photographic illustrations were brought to life using multiple artistic techniques, blending natural moments with creative backdrops for a truly unique visual experience.

What is one thing you hope young readers take away from your book?

I hope young readers take away the idea that the holiday season is about more than just gifts—it’s about joy, curiosity, and spending time with loved ones. Through the kittens’ adventures, I want children to see that simple pleasures like playing with ornaments, discovering new things, and being together are what make the holidays truly special. I also hope the rhymes inspire a love for language and that the book encourages them to explore reading in a fun and interactive way.

Can we expect to see more books from you soon? What are you currently working on?

Yes, absolutely! I am currently working on a few new projects, including a series of level-one reader books for young children. In addition, I’m excited to be working on a story about a fuzzy caterpillar and the wonder of its life cycle, introducing young readers to the magic of nature. My goal is to continue creating heartwarming, engaging stories for young readers that celebrate the beauty of everyday moments and the joy of animals.

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