How did you come up with the idea of your Christmas themed book?
The idea sparked from a story a friend told me about their Christmas tree falling over. She and her husband had collected ornaments as a couple from all of their trips over the years. When the tree fell over, many of the ornaments were shattered. They spent the whole night piecing them and gluing them back together.
Could you give me a short synopsis on the story for my readers?
Ornaments of Love is a children’s Christmas story about a 10-year-old girl, named Ayana, who excitedly anticipates that special time of year when the entire family joins together to decorate and admire the Christmas tree. But sadly this year is different. Ayana realizes that her mom and dad are far too busy with everything else to enjoy the tree with Ayana. Then, something unexpected happens and the family is brought together with tenderness and joy.
What made you decide to do a Christmas themed book?
Christmas is my favorite time of year. I love the feeling of hope and joy it brings and how the season brings people together. When I told my husband I was going to write a book, he suggested writing a Christmas book. I really liked the idea and was inspired because I enjoy Christmas so much.
What are some of your favorite Christmas traditions?
Of course putting up and decorating the Christmas tree is one of my favorite family Christmas traditions, along with decorating the house and putting up lights. (Well, my husband does that part!) Baking cookies with my 9-year-old daughter is at the top of the list, as well as watching Holiday Inn with my husband and daughter, going to church on Christmas Eve, Christmas shopping, driving around to see our favorite light displays and reading Christmas books with my daughter.
What’s next? (future books, novellas, special appearances you want to mention)
I have an idea for a post-Christmas venture that I’ll be announcing at a later date. :)
Any special awards or achievements you’d like to mention?
Ornaments of Love received a 5-star review from Readers’ Favorite as well as an excellent review by the Midwest Book Review!
What’s the best writing tip you’ve learned or been given that you’d like to share?
To read a ton, research the business, and network. There are no shortcuts. Put in the time and effort and it will pay off!
What do you know now about writing and publishing you wish you had learned sooner?I’m just happy to be where I am at the moment. I feel like I’m learning and growing in this business daily, and it’s all happening when it’s meant to happen.
Any last words or tips?
I hope you all check out the Ornaments of Love picture book/ebook and coloring book on Amazon. Consider them for Christmas gifts for your family and friends. Reading is one of the best things you can do with children and this book has a message both kids and adults can enjoy. For those of you who purchase the books, there are urls in the back for free English and Spanish audio versions as well as for free coloring pages so the whole family can enjoy coloring together.
That's it for today's interview. If you'd like to learn more about Sharlin and her writing, here are some links to get you started.
Ornaments of Love Picture Book/ebook: http://www.amazon.com/dp/099710600xOrnaments of Love Coloring Book: http://www.amazon.com/dp/0997106026
Smashwords: https://www.smashwords.com/books/view/645492
(For download to Ipad, Iphone, Ipod Touch, Kindle, Kindle Fire, Nook and Kobo)
Sharlin’s Website: http://www.sharlincraig.com
This post is part of a blog tour. To enter the Rafflecopter giveaway, choose from the options below
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Here is where she'll be featured during the rest of the month.
Wednesday, November 9th: This Mom's Delight (Guest Post-‘Affirm Your Child’s Worth by Spending Time with Them & Giveaway)
Friday, November 11th: All Done Monkey (Post-‘10 Ways to Make the Holidays Special’, Review & Giveaway)
Monday, November 14th: Connie M. Huddleston (Monday Morning Indie: Review & Interview)
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