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

Brandy, thanks for taking the time to share your stories with us today So let’s jump to your mission – what’s the backstory behind how you developed the mission that drives your brand?

My mission is to create inspiring and engaging faith-based children’s books that nurture young hearts and minds, fostering a deep understanding of God’s love and guiding them to embrace solid values. Through stories filled with hope, kindness, and faith, I hope to plant seeds of spiritual growth and encourage children to walk confidently in their faith, knowing they are cherished by God.

Great, appreciate you sharing that with us. Before we ask you to share more of your insights, can you take a moment to introduce yourself and how you got to where you are today to our readers.

My youngest daughter, Vivian, was three years old when a seemingly random story popped in my head. It was a story about Vivian and her grandmother planting a flower garden. I shared it with my husband who said it sounded very similar to one of Jesus’s well-known parables called the Parable of the Sower. I thought it was cute so decided to write it in my journal and there it sat untouched for about three years.

At the end of 2018, as I thought about the future and everything I wanted to accomplish, I heard a voice ask me about that story I had jotted down three years ago. What I now firmly believe was God speaking to me, He told me that I needed to turn that story into a children’s book. I had never written a book before, so I had no idea how to even begin, but something drove me to figure it out.

My first book was published in June 2019, so all in all, it took me about 6 months to figure out how to publish a book and then actually make it come to life. In the beginning, I simply cast a net by reaching out to as many people as possible to learn as much as possible. Browns Book Publishing reached out with a hybrid offer, but that route can be extremely expensive. I did recognize one of their authors because Vivian had one of his books. I decided to reach out to see if he’d be willing to talk to me about his experience, which he did.

He had released several children’s books, but shared with me that some he’d published through Browns Books, while others he self published. I had read about self publishing, but was quite intimidated by what I felt would be a lot of work. Ultimately, his story was enough to tip the scales and I chose to go the self-publishing route.

Today, I have published 2 children’s books, both of which have won several awards. My first one even hit the best sellers list on Amazon last year, which was exciting! My vision is for this to become a 6-book children’s series. I have a 3rd one that has a completed manuscript and now just needs to be sent to the illustrator. I would very much love to see this one get published this year; I honestly feel like it’s my best story yet!

What do you find most rewarding about being a creative?

My sweet customers! I always get the biggest grin when people share the most adorable photos of little ones reading one of my books. It seriously warms my heart each and every time!

During COVID, I stumbled across a YouTube video of an elderly woman reading my book!! I was shocked because it was the first time I witnessed someone I didn’t know reading it! I was like, “Wow, God’s word about love and kindness is reaching our future through me!”

Can you share a story from your journey that illustrates your resilience?

Being a self-published author comes with its unique set of challenges. Unlike traditionally published authors, you bear the full responsibility of not only writing your books, but also managing all aspects of its production, from editing to cover design to marketing. Without the backing of a publishing house, it can be difficult to reach your target audience, and the financial burden of publishing often falls entirely on your shoulders. Additionally, self-published authors must navigate the saturated book marketing, competing with both indie authors and traditionally published works, while constantly working to build credibility and recognition in the industry. Despite the creative freedom self-publishing offers, the journey requires resilience, resourcefulness, and an unwavering belief in your mission and work.

Contact Info:

• Website: https://www.brandycclark.com
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100069552191264
• Other: https://www.tiktok.com/@vivisperfectlyimperfect?_t=8iahfvjz2J1&_r=1

Image Credits

Illustrations by Jade Fang