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Seeing Their Own Potential

CK Willie Author Interview

Through a series of rhyming questions and whimsical illustrations, What Would You Do? encourages kids to dream big, take chances, and believe in themselves. What was the inspiration for your story?

I have always had a problem with confidence which led me to have a very difficult time growing up. When I write, I am really talking to myself and I know a LOT of kids deal with the same feelings. I want to help them overcome their lack of self-esteem and believe in what they are capable of. Children are amazing and have so much potential! They just need to see that in themselves and believe they can be anything they want to be!! It’s literally painful to grow up with feelings of insecurity and you end up hiding in a shell and never really being the person you’re capable of being. They miss so much joy and enthusiasm for your dreams. I want to help them instill in themselves belief in who they can be.

Your childrens book shows kids that their dreams are possible to achieve as long as they are willing to believe in themself. What were some educational aspects that were important for you to include in this children’s book?

I intentionally created the diversity of the characters in the book to show that no matter who you are, where you live or what your circumstances, there are other children throughout the world that have the same feelings. Knowing that can sometimes help a child to not feel different and have a comfort in knowing that they’re not alone in their feelings. A lack of confidence makes a child feel very lonely and want to keep to themselves. By creating a “universal” story, it will hopefully open their eyes to see that other children have the same feelings which, though it may be long distance, it creates a feeling of community. 

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

I love the scene with the dragon and the boy fighting from the wheelchair, rather than on a white steed, and then taking the dragon home for a pet! Again, it shows no matter what your circumstances, anything is possible if you believe in yourself!  

What story are you currently in the middle of writing?

I actually have several that I’m working on. I keep getting different ideas so I have to stop what I’m working on to write down a new idea that popped in my head. They all approach the same subject but each with its own unique storyline. What Will You Do? will probably always be my favorite because it helped me overcome my fears “of not being good enough.” I pushed past my doubts and looked in the mirror and said “I believe in me!” It’s a GREAT feeling and I want every child that reads my books to experience that same feeling! 

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This beautifully illustrated book with easy-to-read whimsical rhyme reaches out to children, or anyone of any age, to show them how to make their dreams come true. Whether they want to be an astronaut, a dragon tamer, build robots or ride in a hot air balloon, anything is possible if you believe in you!

No matter who you are or where you live, everyone has the same thing in common…dreams, dreams that may seem impossible. “What Would You Do?” shows that they are possible as long as you’re willing to believe in yourself. Our fears hold us back but one thing is true, our happiness lies just outside our comfort zone. So keep dreaming, believe in you and make those dreams come true!
So many things
in the world to try.
If you’re afraid
they may pass you by.
The pages of this book
will show you the way
to overcome your fears
so start reading today!

What Would You Do?

What Would You Do? is a short and cheerful picture book that invites children to imagine a world where anything is possible. Through a series of rhyming questions and whimsical illustrations, it encourages kids to dream big, take chances, and believe in themselves. Whether it’s taming lions, flying to the moon, or becoming a superhero, the book offers a playful journey through bold possibilities, all while carrying a steady message of self-confidence and resilience.

What I liked most about this book was how simple the words were, yet how powerful the message felt. The rhymes roll off the tongue with ease, and the rhythm gives each scene a sense of energy. The ideas may seem fantastical, but they’re grounded in an honest emotional truth: fear holds people back, and belief in yourself can move mountains. It doesn’t get preachy or overcomplicated. Instead, it meets kids where they are, right in that space between curiosity and doubt, and gives them a gentle push forward. It’s the kind of picture book I would’ve loved as a child and probably read over and over until the spine gave out.

The illustrations by Vaughan Duck add a big dose of fun. They’re colorful and a little silly in the best way. Every page feels like a new adventure, full of movement and imagination. I found myself smiling through the whole thing. It also helps that the book keeps the tone light while still planting seeds of courage and personal growth. You finish reading and feel a little braver. That’s not something every children’s book can do.

What Would You Do? is a joyful and affirming read that would be perfect for kids aged 4 to 8, especially those who are shy, cautious, or afraid to try new things. Parents, teachers, and caregivers will appreciate its warm tone and clear message: your dreams are worth chasing, and the first step is believing in yourself. It’s a feel-good kids’ book that leaves a lasting impression.

Pages: 34 | ASIN : B0F9SRHVCT

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