JULY 16TH, 2025 FEATURE INTERVIEW WITH INDIE CHILDREN’S BOOK AUTHOR, RENEE BOLLA, CONDUCTED BY KIDLIT WRITER, BLOGGER & FORMER LIBRARIAN, CHELSEA DICICCO: WHY SELF-PUBLISHING WORKS AND WHERE TO START

In today’s Feature Interview, indie children’s book author Renee Bolla opens up about her transition from a 20-year career in the corporate fashion world into kidlit publishing. She offers insight and tips on self-publishing, important first steps, what she wishes she had known earlier, and explains why indie publishing was the right route for her.

Renee, it’s so wonderful to have you here with us! Could you tell us where you’re joining us from today?

Birmingham, MI.

How did you hear about Chelsea’s World of Books Literary Blog and the Feature Interview segment?

I first connected with Chelsea’s World of Books on Instagram. It was one of those organic, mutual-follow moments where I immediately felt a sense of kinship as a fellow author, writer, and someone who cares deeply about community. I’m drawn to people who are building something authentic and inclusive, and that’s exactly what I felt when I landed in your literary world.

– Aw, I love this! I’m so glad you felt that connection. That’s definitely the feeling I want to impart to people visiting my page.

You mentioned in your bio that you transitioned from fashion retail to writing for kids. I’d love to hear how that came about! What led you to publishing? And when did your publishing journey begin?

Twenty years in corporate fashion retail taught me a lot, but it also came with its share of constraints. I grew up in a world of red tape and polished decks, where creativity was only applauded if it checked all the boxes. I spent years being the “do-it-all” working mom, managing a $2B business by day and raising three young kids at home. On the surface, it looked like I had it all together. Inside, I was exhausted. Disconnected.

“I grew up in a world of red tape and polished decks, where creativity was only applauded if it checked all the boxes… On the surface, it looked like I had it all together. Inside, I was exhausted. Disconnected.” -Renee Bolla

Then came the fall of 2020. Another busy morning on autopilot, lemon water in hand, makeup on, getting the girls ready, logging into Zoom, and yet something felt different. My gut had been whispering for years that something had to change, but I kept pushing it down. Until one day, I finally listened. I resigned after two decades in corporate. And while the decision was empowering, it also felt like a loss. I grieved that version of me. But in the stillness that followed, I found space to imagine a new version of myself.

– What an honest way of putting it. I can only imagine the emotions and thought process involved in this decision. It takes great courage to make big changes, especially if it’s been your way of life for a number of years, and you’re embarking on unfamiliar territory.

I didn’t leap into publishing with a full manuscript or a business plan. I started with stillness, with letting myself feel (thanks, Dad, for this advice). And from that quiet space, ideas started pouring in. My daughters became my muses. I found myself dreaming up stories rooted in our everyday lives. And before I knew it, the next chapter of my life began. I just had to be brave enough to embrace it.

I self-published my first picture book, Finding Bunny, in early 2022, with Imagine That following late 2022, and my latest book, The Truth About Stepmoms, in early 2024. One for each of my daughters.

“I didn’t leap into publishing with a full manuscript or a business plan. I started with stillness, with letting myself feel (thanks, Dad, for this advice). And from that quiet space, ideas started pouring in.” – Renee Bolla

What kind of genres do you write in and for what age groups? 

I write children’s picture books, primarily for readers between the ages of 4 and 9. Picture books were a natural entry point for me. When I started this journey, my daughters were 2, 7, and 10, and our home was overflowing with stories (still are). Some books had been passed down for over a decade, and a few were even from my childhood, specifically The Monster at the End of This Book. This was the story my dad read to me at bedtime during his weekends, and it still holds a place in my heart. Sharing those pages with my girls, seeing the same characters come to life for them that once lit up my imagination, felt full circle. 

There’s something magical about picture books. I love how they create space for shared reading moments between kids and adults. They spark questions, curiosity, and conversations that linger. That’s the kind of storytelling I want to offer, heartfelt and rooted in connection.

-YES!!! This sums it up perfectly, and I couldn’t agree more!

“There’s something magical about picture books. I love how they create space for shared reading moments between kids and adults. They spark questions, curiosity, and conversations that linger. That’s the kind of storytelling I want to offer, heartfelt and rooted in connection.” – Renee Bolla

What made you decide to go the independent route, and do you think you’ll continue indie publishing route or eventually pursue traditional? Explain.

I came into publishing at a time when self-publishing was being embraced rather than dismissed, and that changed everything for me. I knew right away that I wanted to self-publish. I wanted full creative control over every detail of the story and the illustrations. I wanted my daughters to see themselves in my stories, and not just metaphorically. I also didn’t want to wait years for someone else to decide those stories were worthy of being told.

“I knew right away that I wanted to self-publish. I wanted full creative control over every detail of the story and the illustrations. I also didn’t want to wait years for someone else to decide those stories were worthy of being told.” -Renee Bolla

Self-publishing gave me the freedom to move on my own timeline. I could publish while my girls were still young enough to curl up next to me and see their reflections on the page. That window of time felt too sacred to miss.

“Self-publishing gave me the freedom to move on my own timeline.” -Renee Bolla

That said, I’m not opposed to traditional publishing in the future. I believe there’s room for both in a writer’s journey. But for now, indie publishing fits me. It’s nimble, empowering, and has allowed me to build a business that reflects my values and vision from the inside out.

-Beautifully put!

Tell us more about your indie journey! What were some of the steps involved in getting your foot in the door for this new, exciting venture?!

This is a big question. Where do I begin? Publishing was a whole new world for me. I had so many questions in the beginning, more than I can count. But what surprised and uplifted me most was how welcoming the writing community was. I started reaching out to anyone willing to share their experience. I asked a lot of questions. And people responded with openness, encouragement, and generosity. That support became the foundation for everything I would build next.

-Questions are a great place to start! And yes, the kidlit community really is such a warm and inviting place.

I joined the 12×12 Picture Book Challenge and became a member of SCBWI. I participated in critique groups and learned to embrace feedback, even when it stung. I followed writers and illustrators on social media, watched webinars, and read books like Writing Picture Books by Ann Whitford Paul, anything to move my writing journey forward. I even took workshops through the Highlights Foundation, which helped me grow both as a writer and a storyteller.

-These are all great first steps. Asking questions. Joining writing groups. Participating. Embracing feedback (this one is hard at first, but CRUCIAL for growth as a writer). Expanding your writing circles. Webinars, books, and workshops- all fantastic.

Every connection I made along the way mattered. Each conversation, critique, or workshop taught me something I didn’t know the day before. And I can’t forget the unwavering support of my family, they were right beside me, cheering me on, reading early drafts, and reminding me to keep going when imposter syndrome crept in.

The biggest step? Hitting publish for the first time. It was terrifying, thrilling, and deeply rewarding. That moment marked not just the release of a book but the beginning of a new chapter I never knew I was meant to write.

What’s something you wish you had known earlier about that you’d like to share with readers who may be considering self-publishing?

That you don’t have to do it all, and you don’t have to do it all at once.

When I first started, I thought I had to have every detail mapped out, from an airtight marketing plan, polished website, and a full social presence, before even whispering that I was writing a book. I spent too much time trying to get it all “just right” and not enough time simply sharing the journey.

If I could go back and tell myself one thing, it would be: Start talking about your book early. Let people in. Share the process, the why, the messy middle. Build community around your story before it’s released. You don’t need a finished product to start creating connection.

I also wish I hadn’t listened to imposter syndrome quite so much. That voice in your head that says, Who am I to do this?, is loud at the beginning. But the truth is, no one else can tell your story the way you can. Your voice matters, even when it shakes.

You will make mistakes. You will learn things the hard way. But you will also grow, build confidence, and create something real. And that’s more important than perfect.

“If I could go back and tell myself one thing, it would be: Start talking about your book early. Let people in. Share the process, the why, the messy middle. Build community around your story before it’s released. You don’t need a finished product to start creating connection.” -Renee Bolla

What are some challenges you’ve faced, and how have you been able to overcome them?

One of my biggest challenges has been unlearning perfectionism. After two decades in the corporate world, I was conditioned to believe that success meant flawless execution. That every decision needed to be backed by data, every step reviewed, and every mistake avoided at all costs. But the creative process doesn’t work that way. It’s messy. Vulnerable. And deeply human.

Letting go of the pressure to do it “right” the first time was, and still is, an ongoing journey for me. I had to learn to take imperfect action. To publish, promote, and pivot without having all the answers. That’s terrifying when you’re used to operating in a world of forecasts and performance reviews.

Another challenge has been visibility. As an indie author, you wear every hat: writer, marketer, publicist, distributor. Getting my books into readers’ hands takes consistent effort and creative thinking. But I’ve found success by leaning into what I value most, connection. Whether it’s school visits, community events, or author meet-ups, the more I connect with real people, the more meaningful my journey becomes.

What have been some of your greatest moments and highlights in Kidlit Publishing?

Hands down, one of the most unforgettable moments was watching my daughters hold my book for the first time. Seeing their faces light up as they flipped through the pages, pointing out characters who looked like them and moments pulled from our real lives, it was surreal. That moment alone reminded me why I started this journey in the first place.

I’ve also been honored to receive recognition for my latest picture book, The Truth About Stepmoms. It was named an Editor’s Pick by BookLife by Publishers Weekly, received a 2024 Honorable Mention from Writer’s Digest for self-published books, and was selected as a 2024 Females of Fiction Winner. It also earned Best in Genre – Children’s Humor from Indies Today and was recognized by the Independent Author Network. Each of these honors has been incredibly affirming, especially knowing how much heart went into telling a story that challenges stereotypes and celebrates blended families.

But honestly, the real highlight is hearing from readers. When a parent messages me to say, “My child asked to read your book again tonight,” or sends me a picture of their child reading my book, it truly touches my heart every single time. That’s the kind of legacy I want to leave.

What is your “why” for writing? 

Writing has always been how I process the world, how I hold onto fleeting moments, and make sense of life’s curveballs. But at its heart, my why is deeply rooted in motherhood. My daughters are my muses, my motivation, and the spark behind every story I write. I want my girls to grow up knowing that their voices matter and that who they are is something to be celebrated.

So, for me, writing is a way of leaving breadcrumbs of love behind, tiny pieces of myself woven into words. These are the stories I hope they’ll return to as they grow, stories that make them laugh, wonder, feel brave, and remember exactly who they are and where they come from.

What does writing bring you, and what do you hope your stories offer others?

Writing is my creative sanctuary. It’s the one space where I can be fully myself, honest, imperfect, intuitive, and curious. It gives me permission to slow down, reflect, and turn the everyday into something meaningful.

My hope is that my stories offer children and families a safe space to feel. Growing up, emotions weren’t always discussed or validated. As a parent now, I see how critical it is to name feelings, to talk about hard things, and to normalize the ups and downs of life. That’s what I try to bring into every story: heart, honesty, and a whole lot of love.

If even one child feels comforted or finds joy in something I’ve written, then I’ve done what I came here to do.

What are some positive experiences you’ve had from readers?

I’ve had kids and parents come up to me at events and say they read my book at bedtime every single night. I’ve had parents send me videos of their child giving a five-star review with the biggest smile on their face. I’ve received photos of little ones being gifted my book or snuggled up reading it at night. Every time I start to question why I do this or when I feel exhausted by the never-ending to-do list that comes with writing, publishing, and promoting, one of these moments lands in my inbox and reminds me exactly why I started.

Sometimes, it’s my daughters who bring me back to center. When they tell me how cool it is that their mom is an author, or when they want to join me at a book event and share their stories too, those moments stop me in my tracks. Just writing about it makes me tear up. It’s truly something special.

Outside of publishing your books, you’re also very active in the Kidlit/literacy community. I’d love to hear more about your groups and projects. Let’s start with your A Pop of Indie: A Traveling Book Fair. What’s it all about? When was it founded? And what inspired it?

I co-founded A Pop of Indie in fall 2023 with fellow indie kidlit author Lindsay Gizicki. It’s Michigan’s first traveling book fair made up entirely of independently published Michigan-based children’s book authors. Our mission is to reinvent the traditional book fair mode. (You know the one. It usually brings in the same mass-produced books and sells a lot of toys.) Our goal is to create a space that highlights local authors, promotes diverse stories, and inspires the next generation of readers.

Each book fair pairs with a free 90-minute Family Literacy Night for local elementary schools, which includes a writing workshop, author Q&A panel, arts & crafts, and story time. We bring real authors into school communities, allowing kids to connect face-to-face with the creators of the stories they’re reading. We now have over 30 authors and more than 100 books in our catalog, spanning picture books through middle grade.

This initiative is all about accessibility, creativity, and representation. We want reading to be more than a classroom activity. We want it to be a part of everyday life, something the whole family can rally behind and celebrate. A Pop of Indie is about inspiring, empowering, and nurturing young minds one indie book at a time.

Could you tell us more about your work with the marketing group Kidlit at Heart. What is it, exactly? And what role do you play?

Kidlit at Heart came together through the 12×12 Picture Book Challenge. We’re a group of authors navigating different paths (traditional, hybrid, and indie publishing) but all with a shared mission: to support one another and reach more readers.

We collaborate on marketing efforts, share resources, and brainstorm creative ways to amplify our books. Many of us launched books around the same time, so we hosted virtual launch parties, author Q&As, and promoted one another across our communities. It’s been such a gift to be part of a group that values collaboration over competition.

Coming from a corporate background in branding and marketing, I’ve been able to contribute those skills to the group. But it’s a two-way street; we each bring something unique to the table. At the heart of it, we’re just a group of writers helping each other succeed, one book at a time.

What other writing groups are you a part of, and what kind of benefits would you say they’ve offered you?

Early in my journey, I joined SCBWI and the 12×12 Picture Book Challenge, both of which were game changers. They gave me structure, accountability, and access to a wealth of information and industry insight. Through these groups, I found critique partners, built confidence, and embraced feedback as a vital part of the process.

I’ve also participated in writing workshops through the Highlights Foundation, which helped me deepen my craft and connect with other writers in a truly immersive setting. One of the most pivotal moments came when I took virtual writing classes with Valerie Bolling, an author, educator, and mentor who had an incredible impact on my latest book, The Truth About Stepmoms. Valerie’s insight, encouragement, and thoughtful feedback helped me shape the story with more clarity, intention, and heart. She challenged me to dig deeper, to elevate my storytelling, and to trust my voice, and for that, I’ll always be grateful.

In addition to those, I’m a writing contributor for Detroit Moms, where I share the raw, beautiful, and messy realities of motherhood with a community of women who just get it. Writing for them has stretched my voice in new ways and allowed me to connect beyond children’s literature.

Each group has poured into me in a different way—professionally, creatively, and emotionally. They’ve helped me grow not just as a writer, but as a human.

What suggestions would you offer to other aspiring indie authors?

• Start before you’re ready. You will never feel “ready,” and that’s okay. Start where you are and learn along the way.
• Talk about your book early. Don’t wait until it’s perfect. Let your community in on the journey; they’ll root for you harder when they feel a part of it.
• Ask for help. This path wasn’t meant to be walked alone. Reach out to fellow authors, editors, and illustrators. Most people are more generous than you’d expect.
• Get comfortable with feedback. Critique is where your story grows. It’s not personal; it’s part of the process.
• Think like a business, but lead with your heart. Self-publishing is creative and entrepreneurial. You’re not just selling a book, you’re building a brand rooted in purpose.
• Celebrate small wins. Your first school visit, your first review, your first reader message, it all counts.
• Protect your joy. It’s easy to get caught up in comparison or metrics. Come back to why you started. Keep the joy in your work.

Writing takes a lot of time and dedication. And, like many creative pursuits, it can sometimes consume our lives-  if we let it. As a mom to three, could you share what your experience of writing and publishing while parenting has been like? How do you manage your time and set boundaries to ensure balance for family and work?

I wish I had a perfect answer for this, it’s the million-dollar question so many working moms ask. But the truth is, I simply take it one day or one week at a time.

As a mom of three kids in very different life stages (elementary, middle, and high school) there’s no one-size-fits-all system that works for me. I also have ADHD, so structure isn’t always my best friend. I’m emotionally driven and creatively led. I’ve learned to tune into my energy, to work when I’m inspired, and to rest when I need to.

-YES! As a fellow ADHD girl myself, I can attest to how important this is. Tuning into our energy- working when we feel inspired and resting when we need to rest.

Outside of writing, I run my own business, RNB Retail Consulting, where I support women-owned businesses across Michigan using my 20 years of corporate retail experience. I’ve had to become more intentional with my time and more comfortable saying no. That’s taken practice, but it’s been incredibly freeing.

I don’t compartmentalize writing from motherhood because, honestly, it’s all intertwined. My kids are a part of this journey; they read early drafts, give feedback, and often tag along to bookstores and festivals. When they tell me they’re proud or that they want to write a story of their own, I know I’m doing something right.

Here are a few things that help me:

• I carve out short writing sprints (30–45 minutes) when the house is quiet.
• I keep a notebook or phone notes handy to jot down ideas anytime they come.
• I protect family time fiercely, and I protect creative time too.
• I involve my kids in my writing world. Their perspective often sparks the best ideas.
• And I give myself permission to pause. Productivity doesn’t always look like writing. Sometimes it looks like living.

Speaking of parenthood, are there any resources related to your books that you offer to parents? (If so, would you be interested in linking/sharing them here so they could be available on the blog as well?)

Yes! Creating family-friendly, book-inspired activities is one of my favorite parts of the author journey. I want my books to do more than entertain; I want them to help families connect, process, and grow together.

For The Truth About Stepmoms, I offer resources that support children and families navigating blended family dynamics. These include:

• A DIY family photo album craft that encourages kids to reflect on their favorite memories and celebrate their unique family makeup.
• Conversation prompts that help kids express their feelings about family changes, stepparents, and shifting routines.
• A “What Makes a Family” worksheet that emphasizes love, support, and connection over titles or roles.
• Links to valuable outside resources like the Radical Stepmoms Podcast, which features real stories and tools for navigating stepmotherhood, and @stepmomcoach on Instagram, whose website is full of helpful strategies, affirmations, and printables for blended families.

I want families to feel seen and supported because there’s no one-size-fits-all model for love.

For Imagine That, which centers around bedtime fears and the power of imagination, I provide tools that help kids work through fear and build emotional resilience:

• Discussion prompts about nighttime worries and calming routines.
• A printable bravery cape activity, where kids decorate their own cape and write down the things that make them feel strong.
• Bedtime affirmations and breathing exercises to ease anxiety.
• A list of creative problem-solving prompts that help kids reframe fear through play and storytelling.

For Finding Bunny, a story about friendship and emotional resilience, I’ve created resources that focus on helping kids identify and process their feelings:

• Emotion cards and a feelings game to help children name what they’re experiencing.
• Creative writing and drawing prompts based on the story.
• Mindful drawing activities that offer a gentle way to express emotion nonverbally

Some of these resources are available on my website, and others I provide during school author visits. They are easy for parents, teachers, and caregivers to implement at home or in the classroom. My goal is to extend the reading experience beyond the book because stories aren’t just for reading. They’re for living, feeling, and growing together.

Anything else you’d like to share with readers today?

If I could leave you with one thing, it’s this: Reading is one of the simplest, most powerful ways we connect with each other. Whether it’s a bedtime story, a few minutes between errands, or a book tucked into a travel bag, those small moments matter. They shape how our kids see the world and how they see themselves.

Make time for reading. For yourself and for your family. Stories are fuel. Stories are mirrors. Stories are bridges.

And if you ever need a little reminder of that, here’s the phrase I come back to often:

“Reading is my love language.”

It’s how I show up, how I connect, and how I leave something meaningful behind.

To every aspiring writer, dreamer, or mama out there juggling more than one hat, keep going. Tell your stories. They matter more than you know.

Renee, thank you so much for joining us on Chelsea’s World of Books Literary Blog. It has been a pleasure having you here today. So much courage and kindness have been shared in today’s chat. I’m sure our readers who have made it to the end of this interview would agree. But we’re not quite to the very end. Now it’s time for our GIVEAWAY!

For the month of July, Renee is offering THREE winners a prize of one of her books + EXTRA GOODIES. Each book will come with EXTRA GOODIES: stickers, a bookmark, and a book bag tag.

Prize winner 1: Signed copy of Finding Bunny + EXTRA GOODIES

Prize winner 2: Signed copy of Imagine That! + EXTRA GOODIES

Prize winner 3: Signed copy of The Truth about Stepmoms + EXTRA GOODIES

Did you enjoy this interview?

Thank the author & host by purchasing or reviewing a copy of one of their books or by requesting it be purchased by your local school or library! Using the sponsored links below to purchase also helps support this blog.

Purchase ADHD AND ME

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