Carried by Wings follows a young condor learning to fly who is terrified and experiencing self-doubt as his brother eagerly soars into the sky. What was the inspiration for your story?

I listen to a wide range of music, from classical to folk and popular genres. I have many favorite songs in the lighter realm of music that evoke nostalgic memories and experiences. The concept of children’s books, even when loosely connected to my favorite songs and the emotions they inspire, has led me to create the Lyrics of Life book series.

I immediately listed my five favorite songs over the years, and my imagination began creating stories for children. While writing the Carried by Wings storybook, tunes from the Andes played in my head. I sometimes hummed along to the imaginary pan flute in “El cóndor pasa” or the vocal version “If I Could” by Simon and Garfunkel.

There is something very appealing about both versions of this well-known song. One can easily imagine scenes associated with high mountain peaks and steep slopes on stormy shores. The birds that live there represent a kind of primitive courage and survival that one cannot help but admire. – I wanted to include that in my story of two condor siblings.

What scene in the book did you have the most fun writing?

I want to highlight a scene that felt special to me. Writing that spread wasn’t just fun; it evoked a deeper feeling I would describe as a mix of freedom and happiness. I’m referring to the particular morning in my story when anticipation, excitement, and self-conquest culminated in Walter’s takeoff.

I’m especially moved when I think of young people who constantly face new situations requiring new skills, courage, and self-control. Life is full of these challenges as children grow up. Things become even more complicated when they have to reconcile their dreams and fears with the demands and expectations of their environment.

As I wrote that scene, I felt joy for all the main characters. The condor family’s nestling had truly crossed a significant threshold by stepping out of the nest and soaring into the skies. The parents had also accomplished their essential mission. They had nurtured their child and helped him develop to the point where his independent life could begin.

That part of the story is closely connected to the song “El cóndor pasa” playing in my mind. Although I have never been to the Andes, I enjoy watching nature documentaries about the highest slopes and their wildlife. For instance, the survival of birds in such harsh conditions is incredible.

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

This book on growth and development benefits both children and the adults who guide them.

In this story, we can view the same situations from the perspectives of different characters. The young condor eagles, representing the child, perceive the challenges of growing up very differently from their parents. Even the two siblings interpret their current challenge of leaving the nest in quite opposite ways. One chick is filled with enthusiasm and takes its daring step too early, leading to tragic consequences. The other chick becomes increasingly cautious, effectively paralyzed by fear, and no longer believes in its abilities or chances of success.

This situation contains an important observation. Children starting in their own lives are individuals, and they should not try to follow others but instead trust their own judgment. Parents should also respect this. No matter how well-intentioned the educator may be, they can act against the child’s best interests. ​
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Harm occurs when the adult rushes the learning schedule or pressures the child to do more or different things than are actually good for them. Additionally, there is a risk that parents may feel inspired through their children to pursue something they themselves have failed to do or achieve.

What is the next book in the Lyrics of Life series that you are working on and when will it be available?

The next two books in the Lyrics of Life series will be illustrated by Nyamdorj Lkhaasuren from Mongolia. One will direct our thoughts to space, while the other will immerse us in the life of a writer and his shepherd friend on a mountainside.

A Stargazer tells the story of a child fascinated by space who believes he sees more than others. Whether this is merely the child’s imagination is for the reader to decide. I’m looking forward to this book because I was interested in space as a child and often wondered what might be found there.

The main characters in The Hermit’s Hut represent the older generation. Some might argue that it’s odd to choose them this way. However, to me, this feels natural because I have always valued the connection and cooperation between different generations. In this book, the author of many books unexpectedly discovers a new way to pursue his life’s mission. Combining idealism with a new approach proves to be the solution. Of course, there are also children in the story, because a storyteller needs a diverse audience.

I hope this new series of mine, the Lyrics of Life, will resonate with readers. I believe it has the ingredients to work on two levels: one for children and one for adults. I’m sure a few imaginary background melodies won’t hurt either!

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