Beatific follows two young children who find a kitten all alone and learn about adopting and caring for a cat. What was the inspiration for your story?

I must say that what inspired me to write this story is the fact that I am extremely passionate about reading and writing, and I wanted to support creating this passion for reading and writing in students.  I know that children love animals, a lot, and I figured that they could read these Beatific books—Realistic Fiction– and learn a bit, vicariously, about what is involved in caring for and adopting a pet.    

When my oldest daughter was around 7 years old, she and her friend stumbled upon a stray cat.  The cat fitted the description of the one in this story, and it was a very happy, friendly kitty.  At that time, I did not know much about animals, so I demanded that she and her friend stay away from the stray.  So, bits and pieces of the events that took place in this ‘stray cat’ endeavor were also a part of the inspiration to write this book. 

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

I felt it important to share the monumental piece of finding out if the stray animal has an owner somewhere, because if a pet is lost, it can have anxiety and become very sad just like we can.  We become attached to the animal and it becomes attached to us.   It is also pertinent that children know to involve their parent(s) in the adoption process, and that they know what is involved in caring for a pet and the dedication necessary to endure through this “having a pet as my very own” process.    

How has working as a reading specialist influenced your desire to write a children’s book? 

Oh my goodness, immensely!  I can’t even start to share how many short stories students wrote while I worked with them.  I would stimulate their desire to write by writing along with them and creating an even deeper love for writing in the students.  I was also able to reel in some who had no desire to write, and their stories were sometimes better than those who wanted to write.

I have always had this desire to write.  When I retired, I had more time to focus, so I put to practice what I was teaching, and I finally got around to doing something else that I was quite passionate about. 

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

Quite frankly, I have already written and published a second book, entitled,  Beatific Visits Doctor Mae,   and I am working on the third Beatific book that will be published at some point in 2023.  I will share the title upon publishing.  A memoir is also in the making, and is roughly two-thirds completed.  So I have a lot of work to do, and I am super excited about completing all of it!

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