Alright – so today we’ve got the honor of introducing you to Barbara Kimmel. We think you’ll enjoy our conversation, we’ve shared it below.

Barbara, appreciate you joining us today. Did you always know you wanted to pursue a creative or artistic career? When did you first know?

When my youngest child left for college, I began exploring activities at a nearby community center. By chance, I stumbled into a memoir class – and that’s where I discovered my creative voice.

Growing up, I struggled with reading and I avoided writing-intensive classes. However, I always wrote in a diary. As a quiet child who rarely shared my feelings, my diary became a trusted confidant. Every day after school, I’d pour my heart into the pages of this safe space.

I approached the memoir class with the mindset of journaling in a diary. On the first day, our teacher encouraged us to “Go deeper… write about what keeps you awake at night, what you can’t stop thinking about.” Those words stirred something deep inside me. Childhood pains poured out, and I couldn’t stop writing.

Then came the bigger risk – sharing my story with the class. Why would a group of strangers be interested in my personal journey? Feeling vulnerable, but aware that others were also sharing, I stepped up. After reading my story aloud, I took a deep breath and faced the class. I was shocked by their positive reactions – some were even in tears. My story resonated with them, creating a shared connection. I realized that my words had the potential to evoke emotions in others.

Writing was validating, rewarding… and fun! I was hooked. After that transformative class, I explored writing monologues and plays, eventually finding my true passion in writing children’s books.

Barbara, before we move on to more of these sorts of questions, can you take some time to bring our readers up to speed on you and what you do?

I am a children’s book author and playwright, currently dedicated to writing picture books and board books that entertain, engage, and educate the youngest readers. I’m excited to have two books under contract, and I have upcoming stories in Highlights and High Five magazines. My debut children’s book, Hanukkah Hippity-Hop (with Kar-Ben Publishing), is scheduled to hit shelves in the fall of 2024.

I am honored that my writing has received recognition, including the Astra International Picture Book Writing Finalist Award and the PJ Library Author Incentive Award. On the theatrical front, my plays have been produced in cities such as New York, London, and Atlanta. In 2022, Reconstruction, my play chronicling my journey with breast cancer, was selected for the Annual Women Playwrights Festival at the Ivoryton Playhouse, earning an Ellie Award. Watching my personal story come to life on stage was an incredibly moving and unforgettable experience.

This writing journey has been exceptionally rewarding, and I’m eager to get more books into the hands of children.

Is there a mission driving your creative journey?

I hope to nurture a positive connection with books from the earliest age by creating playful picture books and board books – that sneak in a touch of learning. Seeing a need for books that celebrate Jewish joy, I felt inspired to write my first two books which are rhyming, interactive stories centered around Jewish holidays.

Any resources you can share with us that might be helpful to other creatives?

There are many wonderful resources for writers of children’s books. I’ve gained insights from books, conferences, classes, and from individuals in the Kidlit community. These generous creators share their knowledge and experiences through mentorships, contests, blogs, and podcasts.

For me, the most valuable resource has been connecting with writers who are at a similar stage in their writing and publishing journey. Many have become critique partners as well as dear friends, adding an extra layer of joy to this creative journey.

I’m fortunate to be part of several critique groups – one formed from a class, another through a local SCBWI (www.scbwi.org) chapter, and one from a PJ Library writing retreat at the Highlights Foundation.

Receiving feedback from a diverse range of voices helps me improve my writing. And critiquing the works of others has proven equally beneficial.

All of these supportive partners have played a crucial role in keeping me motivated through the emotional highs and lows of writing and publishing. We celebrate each other’s wins and console each other during the inevitable rejections. We are all in this together.

Contact Info:

• Website: https://barbarakimmelwrites.com/
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/barbarakimmelwrites/
• Twitter: https://twitter.com/BKimmelWrites