Tag: Feature Interviews on Chelsea’s World of Books Literary Blog

FEBRUARY 2025 FEATURE INTERVIEW WITH LIBRARIAN AND CHILDREN’S BOOK AUTHOR MAKENZIE HICE, CONDUCTED BY CHILDREN’S BOOK WRITER, LITERARY BLOGGER, AND FORMER LIBRARIAN CHELSEA DICICCO

Posted on by Chelsea’s World of Books in Feature Interview Series, View all blog posts

Today, I’m talking with storyteller + filmmaker + Children’s Books Author AND Librarian Makenzie Hice. We’ll be diving into finding inspiration from books, discovering ideas for stories, challenges of the writing process, and the importance of being kind to yourself while creating.

Before we get started with our interview, if this is your first time visiting, here’s a sliver of what you’ll find here on the blog. THE BLOG houses pretty much an endless array of resources and helpful tips for writers and illustrators- and the list is always growing, but one of the most popular and truly incredible things that the blog has to offer is the FEATURE INTERVIEW segment, founded in 2022 and hosted by yours truly, Chelsea DiCicco.

You might be wondering…

WHAT ARE THEY?

WHO ARE THEY FOR?

HOW CAN THEY HELP ME?

Let me shed some light…

Feature Interviews are a monthly collaboration of industry professionals, including authors, illustrators, editors, and agents, having real conversations about the ins and outs of publishing. Many featured guests were at one time, or currently are, also educators, librarians, or booksellers. Their input and perspectives on publishing bring an invaluable amount of knowledge both for newly aspiring authors and/or illustrators, as well as those who are well-established.

These conversations help provide writers and illustrators with tools and insight by giving them an up-close look at publishing across a diverse collection of viewpoints from different sides of the desk. Every month, we dig deep into the behind-the-scenes of publishing, share tips and resources, and provide answers to common (and not-so-common) questions. We also offer PRIZE giveaway opportunities to all readers who take the time to either leave a comment on the blog post or share it on social media. Prizes include free merchandise, one-on-one Zoom mentor calls or Ask-Me-Anythings, manuscript critiques, and more.

Now that we know what’s in store, let’s get this ball rolling!

Makenzie, it’s so great to have you on the blog with us this month! It’s no secret I love libraries and always have a soft spot for talking to fellow librarians. And even though I technically no longer work in a library anymore, I feel like it’s a “once a librarian, always a librarian” type of thing.

Even when I am no longer working for the library, it will always be a significant place for me. The Dewey Decimal System will forever be ingrained in my brain. 

Okay, so to get us started, could you tell our readers where you’re located?

I currently live in Portland, Oregon. We are known for our rain here.

Wonderful! So, Makenzie, when reading through your bio in your application for the 2025 Feature Interview lineup, it was very apparent that you have a real love for storytelling. And I thought it was interesting that you mentioned your interest in storytelling was first developed through filmmaking. Could you tell us more about this?

I fell in love with filmmaking when I was fourteen. I started making my own short films with my friends as a creative outlet. I always loved movies and was enchanted by the endless possibilities of visual storytelling. I didn’t know exactly what I wanted to do in film, so I tried a little bit of everything. My favorite director as a teen was Stanley Kubrick, which is funny to look back on. My goals as a storyteller are the complete opposite now.

I’d love to hear the process of how one form of creative arts led you to find another! Can you tell us how you got from point A. filmmaking to point B. writing?

When I went to Portland State to study film, I wasn’t sure what I specifically wanted to pursue. Once I took my first screenwriting class, my heart was set. I loved being able to make something out of nothing. When it comes to writing, I found relief in knowing not too much could go awry. If I write myself into a corner, I can write myself out of it. I had a favorite screenwriting professor and I took every class of his. He taught me so much about enjoying the process and not beating myself up. Seeing someone who was successful with such a light-hearted attitude when it came to writing really inspired me to stick with it. Writing is hard work, but it doesn’t mean you have to be hard on yourself. 

When and how did the pursuit of your publishing career begin?

I was graduating from college in the Summer of 2020. We were all living in an uncertain time, and I felt very lost. I asked my screenwriting professor for advice on where to look for opportunities. He encouraged me to not limit myself. “You are a writer, not just a screenwriter,” he said. Writing children’s books was something I had considered, but I had no idea where to start. Since I was unemployed and had all the time in the world, I started researching how to construct a manuscript and went from there. I took my screenwriting knowledge on structuring stories and developing characters and morphed it to fit the picture book format. I was surprised by how well my past knowledge lent itself to my new phase of writing.

From the time you first began your publishing journey, how long did it take you before you found your “yes” and could you tell us how that happened? (Was it through a contest, a cold query, an in-person event, or something else? Was it an editor/publisher who you submitted directly to?)

I looked up publishers who were accepting unsolicited manuscripts and found several useful lists. I am grateful for how much helpful information there is on the internet. I then took the leap of sending out a manuscript. It was scary, but I figured I couldn’t expect anything from the universe if I wasn’t willing to put myself out there. When you submit to publishers, you may get a polite rejection or hear nothing at all. The first manuscript I sent out received a few rejections, but mainly it was crickets. I then wrote Angel and the Paper Trail and sent it to about five publishers. Within a month, I received an email from Clavis Publishing telling me they wanted to publish my story. My first “yes” came about 5 months after beginning my children’s book-writing journey. I understand my situation was very lucky. I sent the right manuscript to the right person at the right time. I don’t say this to discredit the work I put into it, but I am aware of how long extremely talented people have had to wait to get their first “yes.” I was given a rare opportunity before I had a strong grasp of what I was doing.

I saw on your application that you aren’t represented by a literary agent. Have you been at any point, and/or is that something that you are interested in pursuing in the future?

I have never been represented by a literary agent, but it is my dream to have one. Right now, I am in the rejection portion of my career. I am consistently submitting to agents, adding to my growing list of rejections. Getting rejected isn’t fun, but it is a huge part of the journey. I don’t take it personally. I just let myself feel what I need to feel, dust off my shoulders, and keep trying. I will gladly pay my dues in order to earn the growth I need.

If you weren’t represented by a literary agent for your previous book deals, could you tell our readers about what your experience was like when going through the process of handling and negotiating publishing contracts independently?

My negotiating process wasn’t very extensive. They emailed me the contract. I read it over with my mom and signed it. I am by no means saying this is the best approach when signing a contract, but it is what felt best for me at the time. It was my first book, so I had no prior experience. I’m still learning about the business side of this industry. If I have the fortune of signing another contract in the future, I think there will be a more in-depth conversation going on.

For writers and/or illustrators who are considering submitting directly to publishers without solicitation, do you have any helpful tips you might like to share?

Keep looking and be patient. Publishers’ and agents’ submission windows often change, so it’s good to consistently do research. You may not have a manuscript that is a great fit for a specific publisher right now, but something you create down the line could be. You can’t predict exactly what people are looking for, so don’t be afraid to try different things. 

Let’s talk about finding inspiration from books. Have there been any specific books that you can recall that really inspired your creative career today? Explain.

Ever since I was young, I’ve been drawn to sweet-gentle stories. I loved the work of Arnold Lobel (The Frog and Toad series) and Else Holmelund Minarik (The Little Bear series). They have helped shape my view of the world, teaching me to look for the little moments of joy in life. Those are the things that keep my heart warm. When I get caught up in stress, I revisit these stories to remember why I started doing this in the first place. 

What are some ways you strive to keep your creative juices flowing, in turn helping you continue discovering new ideas for stories?

Working in a library, I get to be surrounded by books every day. This allows me to see what’s coming out and what classics have withstood the test of time. Pulling inspiration from both old and new gives me a good sense of what kind of stories children are drawn to. Reading children’s books helps keep my childlike view alive. They bring up old memories from when I was a child. Revisiting perspectives I had when I was young helps me tap into a whimsical imagination I once neglected.

Have there been any challenges you’ve had to face during the writing process/publishing journey, and if so, what are some ways you were able to overcome them?

I have trouble trusting my instincts. If I get too close to something, I can’t see it from another point of view. I may have a general idea of what I want to convey, but I can’t find the right words. I overthink and let it stop me in my tracks. Over time, I have learned it is easier to edit a page of clunky words than a page of nothing. I have had to become okay with creating a mess and cleaning it up little by little. The more experience I can get working through my mistakes, the stronger my writing muscles will become. 

I love the idea of being kind to yourself while creating. It’s so, so, so important. We often look at and talk about the “fun” side of creativity and the “beauty,” which there is a lot of fun and beauty in it, BUT being creative can also take a LOT out of you. Especially if you’re harnessing it to be used in your everyday career. And if you don’t take time to properly recharge that creativity, you can find yourself on the flipside completely energy-drained. Can you speak to what it means to be kind to yourself while creating? And what are some ways you’ve been able to do this? (If you’d like to mention other ways of being kind to yourself while creating, like not holding yourself to standards of perfection, not comparing yourself to other people’s successes, etc., Feel free to add that as well!)

In order to get better at something, you have to be bad at it for a while. It can feel really uncomfortable. I used to beat myself up if something wasn’t coming easy to me. It takes time to create. The more you try to force it, the more frustrating it will become. It is important to take a break when you hit a wall. When I am burnt out, I give myself a week to catch my breath and clear my head. Pursuing a creative path can be emotionally draining. I think there may always be a little voice in the back of my head whispering, “You’re not good enough.” I can’t silence that voice, but I can acknowledge it for what it is. It is a feeling, not a fact. As soon as I stopped bottling up my negative emotions, the more at peace I had as a writer. Balance looks different for each person. Celebrate the little accomplishments. Even If you were only able to write for fifteen minutes, be proud of yourself. Every little bit counts. You can’t give it your all every single day. You have to find a routine that works for your life.

Okay, I’m itching to know more about your work in the library. How long have you been a librarian? And which library do you currently work in (if you feel comfortable mentioning)?

I have been working for a Multnomah County Library for about three years. It is a three-story building, which lends itself to housing many books. I am actually not a librarian, but just a library worker. I shelve books, make library cards, and do many things to help patrons get what they’re looking for. I share a lot of the work with the librarians, but they are much more qualified and educated than me. Before working in a library, I thought everyone who worked there had a Master’s Degree in Library Science. I was pleasantly surprised to learn this wasn’t the case. There are workers with varying levels of education. This made it possible for me to work in such a cool place.

Have you been able to host any author events at your local library? 

I haven’t. To be honest, I feel sort of sheepish when it comes to talking about my book at work. This past year, I have been trying to come out of my shell more and be better at sharing my accomplishments with the people around me. 

My book on display at our library!

Speaking of local author events, I’d love to hear about any events you’ve been able to participate in: local/virtual school visits, bookstore visits, library storytimes, etc.

I have done two events at local bookstores. My first event was at Herringbone Books in Redmond, Oregon. I also did a reading at Green Bean Books as part of their back-to-school storytime. I feel very grateful for how kind everyone at these stores was. Last year, I got to visit my brother’s second grade class. It was my first time seeing him in teaching mode. His students were thrilled to meet their teacher’s sister. They were such an engaged audience. I brought little papers so they could make their own notes. I loved seeing how excited they were as they picked their papers and brainstormed what they wanted to write.

My first event at Herringbone Books in Redmond, Oregon!

What has the response to your books and/or events been? Have you had any particularly positive/kind responses while visiting with patrons/classrooms/families? (This could be anything! A kind card. A hand-drawn picture. A thoughtful comment. Etc. Again, if you have pictures you’d like to share, please email them to me as attachments to chelseasworldofbooks@gmail.com)

For the few events I have done, I went into them feeling super nervous. I became a writer because I liked the isolation of it, so being the center of attention is something I struggle with. Despite my nerves, everyone has been so wonderful to me at these events. Someone who had reached out to me through social media months earlier was able to attend one of my events. It felt so amazing to have someone support me in that way. Her kind message had meant so much to me, making me cry happy tears. Getting to meet her in person was so special.

What have been some of your greatest highlights/memories/milestones on the publishing journey? (Again, if you have pictures you’d like to share, please email them 

Seeing my book on a library shelf was definitely a pinch me moment. As I was going about my regular day at work, I looked up to discover it sitting there. It was in the company of so many wonderful stories. It was surreal. Another big moment for me was when I found out my book made it onto the Children’s Books Council’s (CBC) 2024 Children’s Favorite list and Teacher Favorite list. It was such an honor to be included. It helped me feel confident at a time when my imposter syndrome was at its height. 

Okay, we’ve arrived at the book portion of the interview. Please tell us about your books! 

My book, Angel and the Paper Trail is about a young boy who is new to his school and struggling to make friends. He finds a mysterious note inside a book at the school’s library and sets off to find out who wrote it. With the help of his classmate, he begins his search. With each clue they follow, their search team grows. 

This story was inspired by the time I spent at the library when I was younger. I hid many notes in library books and wondered if anybody ever found them. 

What do you hope your readers, big and small, will experience and/or gain from your stories?

I just hope to bring a little bit of joy and comfort to readers. If readers walk away with a smile, then my job has been done. 

Any last words of wisdom you’d like to share with our readers today?

A creative path is not an easy path, but it is so rewarding to do what you love. It may feel as if you are not moving forward, but you are making more progress than you think. Accept support and find ways to support others. This community is full of so much kindness. Root for others’ successes, and remember, your moment will come, too. 

Thank you so much, Makenzie, for joining us on Chelsea’s World of Books Blog.

Thank you so much for having me! Getting to be a part of this makes me feel like the real deal! And now… it’s time for a GIVEAWAY!

GIVEAWAY PRIZE: A FREE COPY OF ANGEL AND THE PAPER TRAIL

Makenzie is giving away 3 PRIZES (TOTAL) TO 3 WINNERS (TOTAL): 1 PRIZE PER WINNER.

HOW TO ENTER THE GIVEAWAY

  • Leave a comment on this post!
  • And if you haven’t already, like this post and subscribe to the blog and/or newsletter!

That’s it!

Want extra entries? Share and tag on X @chellysbooks or Instagram @chelseasworldofbooks, and I’ll add your additional entry to the giveaway pool.

DEADLINE TO ENTER: THE LAST DAY OF THE FEBRUARY 2025 BY 11:59 PM CST

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 HERE

Purchase Angel and the Paper Trail HERE

Makenzie Hice grew up in Bend, Oregon, where she first fell in love with storytelling through filmmaking. She spent her summer days walking to her library and leaving notes in books. While attending Portland State University to study film, she uncovered her passion for screenwriting. After receiving the invaluable advice to try writing for other forms, she decided to take a chance at fulfilling her dream of writing a picture book. She currently works in a library where she is happy to be surrounded and inspired by thousands of stories. From time to time, she even gets the fortune of checking in and shelving a copy of Angel and the Paper Trail. Connect with Makenzie on Instagram @makenziehicewrites.

Looking for custom writer, librarian, or book-lover-themed swag/accessories? Visit my Zazzle store! Want to see a list of my personal favorite book recommendations? Visit my bookshop page! Want to browse favorite writing accessories, books by genre, and cozy reading must-haves? Visit my Amazon Storefront!

Looking for a specific topic? Browse the list below to find a link to information on one of these topics:

OCTOBER 16TH, 2024, FEATURE INTERVIEW WITH CHINESE AMERICAN DEBUT KIDLIT AUTHOR-ILLUSTRATOR KIM-HOA UNG, CONDUCTED BY KIDLIT WRITER, BLOGGER & FORMER LIBRARIAN CHELSEA DICICCO

Posted on by Chelsea’s World of Books in Feature Interview Series, View all blog posts

Today, I’m talking with debut kidlit author-illustrator Kim-Hoa Ung. We’ll be chatting about paths to publication, sharing motivation and resources, and discussing the importance of having inclusive books for kids by creators of marginalized backgrounds.

But before we jump into our interview, if this is your first time visiting the blog, here’s the scoop on Feature Interviews.

THE SCOOP: WHAT ARE FEATURE INTERVIEWS & WHO ARE THEY FOR?

Feature Interviews are a free resource for writers and illustrators at every stage of the publishing journey.

Every month, I collaborate with industry professionals—authors, illustrators, editors, and agents— many of whom were or currently are also educators and librarians, to discuss all things publishing.

What can these interviews offer YOU?

These interviews give readers an up-close and personal look at the world of publishing from an array of different perspectives on every side of the desk and offer insight into tips, resources, and advice on how to:

●       stay current with market trends

●       hook an agent or editor

●       find writing community & other resources

●       discover workshops, contests, and other events

●       figure out which path of publication is right for you

●       know if your agent is a good match

And more!

AND… if that’s not enough, every guest offers at least one giveaway prize—sometimes more. This means you have multiple opportunities to win prizes every month! *If you’re interested in entering the giveaway, scroll to the bottom of the interview for instructions.*

Now that we’ve shared a little about what’s in store… it’s time to jump into our interview!

INTRODUCTIONS & BEGINNINGS

When did you first enter the kidlit publishing arena?

Hi, everyone! Thank you for having me on your wonderful blog, Chelsea! I discovered the kidlit publishing arena in the Fall of 2020. While reading a book with my daughter one night, she asked why I couldn’t write a book and dedicate it to her one day. So I was inspired to try for her.

What was your inspiration for wanting to be a publishing kidlit author-illustrator?

I heard that you’d have a better chance of getting published if you were both author and illustrator. So I tried to do both. I never thought of becoming either of those because writing was always hard for me. I am an amigurumi artist, so designing characters isn’t so hard for me. But to create a full-colored spread out of a blank sheet was nerve-racking for me. But I just had to try for my daughter’s dedication someday.

You recently had your debut picture book come out in December of 2023. Congratulations! Can you tell us a bit about your journey to publication?

Thank you so much, Chelsea! There was a writing competition happening, and I decided to join. It was the Fall Writing Frenzy hosted by Kaitlyn Sanchez and Lydia Lukidis. I won, and my prize was a critique from an editor. During our meeting, I was surprised when she said she would like to work with me. That’s how my book found an editor. At the same time, I found an agent through a pitch event on Twitter/X. After several revisions, my book was acquired.

Staying positive in query trenches: What were the query trenches like and what were some things that helped you to keep going?

The query trenches were tough for me. I remember receiving my first rejection during the Christmas holidays. I cried. After months of rejections from agents, I felt very down. One didn’t like my storytelling style. Another didn’t like my art. I was wondering what I was capable of. What kept me going was encouragement from my family and kidlit friends. The writing community has been so supportive. There are those few who always comment, like, or share my posts. It means a lot to know I’m not alone out there struggling.
 
Your book was published with a traditional house, Macmillan Feiwel and Friends. While publishing with a traditional publishing house doesn’t always require literary representation, oftentimes, it helps. And in your case, you did have literary representation. Who are you currently agented by, and what agency?

My agent is Miranda Paul of Erin Murphy Literary Agency.

Did you know from the beginning that you wanted to pursue traditional publishing with the help of a literary agent, or did that decision take place later? Explain.

At first, I thought about self-publishing, but there was so much to learn. I also didn’t have the income to invest in printing books or hiring editors/designers. After enrolling in Storyteller Academy and learning more about publishing, I thought traditional publishing might be possible for me.

How did you end up with your agent & agency? Was it a cold query? A special query opportunity at a conference or other writing event/contest? Etc.

I found my agent through PBPitch on Twitter. I decided to pitch my story and art in October of 2021. I was excited to receive three hearts that day, one of those being from Miranda Paul. I queried her and was offered representation, which I accepted. Thankful for Debra Shumaker and PJ McIlvaine for hosting such a great event for the kidlit community.
For writers and illustrators who are querying now, can you share a little bit about what to expect for that agent call?

I was very nervous because this was my big chance. I made sure to have my list of questions. Justin Colon and Kelly Rice Schmitt were kind enough to put together a list of questions for agent calls and share it with the community. 

-CHECK OUT THE LIST AT THE LINK HERE!

The list was very helpful.

-Thanks so much for sharing this awesome resource with readers, Kim-Hoa.

What made you decide to sign with the agent/agency you’re with? And why is signing with the “right” agent better than not having an agent all? Explain.

I decided to sign with Miranda because she was nice and enthusiastic about my work. Everything is so subjective in the publishing world. You just hope for someone supportive and passionate about your work. It is better to have an agent so that she can help guide you in the submission process and fight for your work.

What advice do you have to am querying author-illustrators who are looking to go into traditional publishing?

Keep writing and illustrating. Display and submit work that you truly love and are most proud of. Keep learning and being the best version of yourself. Find yourself kidlit friends who will give you helpful feedback and are supportive of you through all the ups and downs.

For author-illustrators who might be on the fence about whether or not to query for literary representation vs. submitting directly to publishing houses, what are some pros and cons of both routes?

I know that most publishing houses accept submissions from agented creators only. But I know a few creators who have successfully landed deals on their own. I, too, found my editor before my agent. So it is possible. 

There are many agents looking for author-illustrators, so you have a good chance with a good portfolio and writing samples. You do what you feel most comfortable with. Even though I had interest from my editor on my dummy, I still wanted an agent so that she could help me negotiate the contract and to help me with future work.

ROAD BUMPS AND CELEBRATIONS

What have been some of your favorite parts of the publishing journey? 

One of my favorite parts of the publishing journey was receiving my proofs. All of my works have been on screen or printed on regular copy paper, so seeing it big on nice glossy paper was an exciting moment for me.
Another favorite moment was seeing my children hold and read my book for the first time together. I’m grateful to be able to dedicate the book to them. Seeing all the friends and family who came to support me at my book events was heart-warming too. Grateful for all who have supported my book and journey!

-Those all sound like very exciting moments! Thanks for sharing those with us. And for sharing the picture. :)

What are some of the challenges you faced in your publishing journey? Explain.

Learning how to illustrate digitally was a challenge for me. Coloring is still difficult for me because I have a hard time seeing what colors work well together. I need to study and practice more. Writing has also been challenging. Finding ways to make your story or art unique is always tough. Just have to keep trying.

What has helped you the most to stay motivated and continue on the path?

Having wonderful family, kidlit friends, and critique partners help make the journey less frightening. Seeing other people’s work on social media has also been inspiring.

-Yes! They make the journey so much better.

In your words, could you share the importance of having diverse books with creators of marginalized backgrounds and voices for our young readers?

It is so important. I wish I had those diverse books growing up. The only one I knew was Yeh-Shen: A Cinderella Story from China by Ai-Ling Louie. I loved the book so much and was so touched when my college roommate got it for me as a gift. Diverse books are important so that other kids and adults have the opportunity to learn about other cultures. They are the windows, doors, and mirrors for the world.

“Diverse books are important so that other kids and adults have the opportunity to learn about other cultures. They are the windows, doors, and mirrors for the world.” – Kim-Hoa Ung @AutumnLeaflet


Yeh-Shen: A Cinderella Story from China

For creators who are from marginalized backgrounds, do you have any favorite writing resources or communities that you’d recommend checking out?

Debbie Ridpath Ohi’s website has been very helpful, especially for new creators. 

Check out Debbie's website at THIS LINK HERE. She also conducts interviews with creators so that you can learn more about the publishing industry and other people’s creative journeys. 

Mia Wenjen also has a wonderful website that features many diverse books. For holidays and other occasions, she posts about collections of related titles. 

Check out Mia's website at THIS LINK HERE. 

Kaitlyn Sanchez has always been so supportive of writers and illustrators. I suggest you follow her on social media because she hosts/co-hosts writing competitions like Fall Writing Frenzy and Spring Fling Kidlit, and the community is so supportive of each other.

-Follow Kaitlyn on her X account at THIS LINK HERE, or visit her website at THIS LINK HERE to discover her Fall Writing Frenzy Contest, Spring Fling Kidlit Contest, and other resources. You can also learn more about The Fall Writing Frenzy on Lydia Lukidis website at THE LINK HERE.

BOOKS + EVENTS + PUBLISHING DEBUT

Your book has been out in the world for a little less than a year. How does it feel?!

I am very grateful for all the love and support I have received for A GIFT FOR NAI NAI. It is such a special feeling to see my book on shelves in bookstores, libraries, and readers’ homes. Thank you to everyone who has read, purchased, gifted, and reviewed my book.

What kind of response have you received from readers?

Readers have told me that A GIFT FOR NAI NAI reminds them of their loved ones, especially their grandmothers, giving them handmade gifts. They have said that my illustrations are so cute and that they love the Chinese writing characters dispersed throughout the book. A few readers have made Nai Nai’s hat too. So touching to see!

-How sweet!
Have you been able to host any local/or otherwise events? 

I was able to have storytime and book signings at Barnes and Noble at the Americana, Once Upon A Time Bookstore, Vroman’s Pasadena, and Bel Canto Books. I am grateful for everyone who came and was there in spirit!
Speaking of book events… this is your DEBUT book! How exciting. Could you tell us about your story and the inspiration behind it?

A GIFT FOR NAI NAI is about a girl who wants to make a special gift for her grandma’s birthday. I had not seen any picture books with crochet at the time, so that inspired me to create one. I used to crochet hats for my grandma, too, so this book is special to me.

-How special! I love that. And this picture is too cute.
Do you have a favorite illustration spread? If so, which one and why?

My favorite spread is when Nai Nai finds out the hat is for her all along, and she and Lyn Lyn hug each other. I love the sweet words Lyn Lyn has for Nai Nai. It is a blessing to have a grandma. 

-So beautiful!
Any final words of wisdom that you’d like to share with our readers today?

Keep writing. Keep illustrating. Agents either didn’t like my writing or my illustrations. It was tough because it made me doubt myself. I wasn’t sure what I was capable of anymore. But the kidlit community and my family were encouraging. So, I kept writing and illustrating. It is important to find yourself supportive friends and critique partners who will help you do better. Good luck with everything, kidlit friends! I am rooting for you all!

“It is important to find yourself supportive friends and critique partners who will help you do better.”

Thank you so much for joining us today, Kim-Hoa.
And now…
It’s time for a GIVEAWAY!


GIVEAWAY

For the month of October, Kim-Hoa Ung is offering the following giveaway prize(s) to (x amount of) winner(s):

One winner will receive a copy of A GIFT FOR NAI NAI picture book or a giant crocheted pencil plushie!

HOW TO ENTER THE GIVEAWAY

●     Leave a comment on this post!

●     And if you haven’t already, like this post and subscribe to the blog and/or newsletter!

That’s it!

DEADLINE TO ENTER: 10/31/2024 11:59 PM CST

FAQ:

What if I was already subscribed to the blog? Does that mean I won’t qualify for the Prize Giveaway? Not at all! If you subscribed before this month, all you’ll need to do is LIKE this Feature Interview and leave your COMMENT below this post within the deadline (the current month/year entry was posted).

Did you enjoy this interview?

Thank the author & host by purchasing a copy of one of their books or by requesting it be purchased at your local library! Using the sponsored links below supports this blog.

BOOK LINKS

Purchase a copy of A GIFT FOR NAI NAI.

Purchase a copy of ADHD AND ME.

Kim-Hoa Ung is a Chinese American author-illustrator and amigurumi artist who enjoys creating stories that explore family relationships, friendship, empathy, culture and heritage, and immigrant life. When she’s not creating stories, you can find her crocheting pieces for art shows, sending snail mail, and making arts and crafts with her kids. She lives with her family in Southern California. A Gift for Nai Nai is her debut picture book, and it was published on December 5, 2023, with Macmillan’s Feiwel and Friends.

@AutumnLeaflet on Twitter/X: @AutumnLeaflet on Instagram @AutumnLeaflet on TikTok @AutumnLeaflet on Facebook @AutumnLeaflet.bsky.social on Bluesky

Website: http://www.kimhoaung.com

Looking for custom writer/library/book-lover-themed swag/accessories? Visit my Zazzle store! Want to see a curated list of my personal favorite books and recommendations? Visit my bookshop page! Want to browse favorite writing accessories, books by genre, and cozy reading must-haves? Visit my Amazon Storefront!

Looking for custom writer, librarian, or book-lover-themed swag and/or accessories? Visit my Zazzle store! Want to see a curated list of my personal favorite books and recommendations? Visit my bookshop page! Want to browse favorite writing accessories, books by genre, and cozy reading must-haves? Visit my Amazon Storefront!

Looking for a specific topic? Browse the list below to find a link to information on one of these topics:

Pros and cons of small publishers, hybrid (or indie) publishing, and being agented VS. unagented.