Willie’s Gift follows a little dog who is struggling and feels out of place with his large ears, who learns that what makes him different is actually what helps make him special. What was the inspiration for the setup of your story?

As a teacher, I believe that every child has a gift that often needs to be cultivated in order to shine through. As an adoptive parent, I have also experienced, firsthand, the issues associated with “feeling different”, along with the importance of feeling accepted. Once accepted, confidence grows. Willie is a little dog who learns how being himself is actually a gift. It is a gift he can share with the people he visits, who are in need of love and acceptance themselves.

What educational aspects were important for you to include in this children’s book?

I strive to focus on diversity and inclusion in my children’s books. Also, I want to teach respect for others. In Willie’s Gift, Willie’s mom encourages him to learn to respect the folks that he visits, even though they may be different from him. 

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

The collaboration with my illustrator, Maggie Sullivan, was quite smooth. I picked her because I could relate to her style and felt that she would depict Willie exactly as he is in real life. Her attention to detail and sense of color blended with my own. She was quick to make adjustments, if needed.

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

I am in the beginning stage of developing my next book for my brand, “CMBookWorks”. It will include a dog and will send an important lesson for children to learn. I have two previous books: “Justin’s Pet” and “Teddy’s Search” that are thoughtful stories that teach a child (and adults) a life lesson. Those books are presently available on Amazon and Barnes & Noble or through my website www.cmbookworks.com.

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