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

Kathleen, looking forward to hearing all of your stories today. Let’s kick things off with your mission – what is it and what’s the story behind why it’s your mission?

I am a retired teacher of ten years. My job was essentially books. Reading good books with great literary elements and illustrations that would enable my children how to become better readers and writers. With the birth of my first son, my teaching career came to an abrupt stop and the new focus of my life was my bald baby boy. He was a terrible sleeper as a baby. Terrible. And it never ended. By the time he was 4, he was still not sleeping, but the excuse at this point was nighttime fears. I knew books and I figured I would be able to find a book to help him with this struggle. This was not the case, and everything I found only seemed to reinforce his fears. One night, after reaching my wits end, I found myself at my computer. I knew what he needed to comfort him. I knew the literary elements that would comprise a well written book for a four-year-old, and I knew just how perfect the illustrations needed to be. Six months later, my first book, BRAVE, was self published.

Kathleen, love having you share your insights with us. Before we ask you more questions, maybe you can take a moment to introduce yourself to our readers who might have missed our earlier conversations?

Beginning as a self-published author was very easy for me, after all, I knew nothing, but hit the ground running. This was both good and bad. I learned as I went along. When a problem would arise, I would immediately begin searching for the solution. This was problematic for many reasons, however it was incredibly helpful as I almost never became overwhelmed. I saw the next task that needed to be done, did it, and then moved on. I learned a lot in self publishing BRAVE. And I learned it very quickly.

My next book, Feathers From Above, was completely inspired by my daughter. She would find feathers and bring them to me proclaiming that her Guardian Angel must be near, and the feather was proof. I knew the world needed to be reminded of this concept. A similar thread that would be carried through from BRAVE to this book: You are not alone. You have nothing to fear in life. God is with you.

My books are unique as they are not only faith based with bible verses, short prayers and words of affirmation at the end, but they are also made for all children. It was extremely important for me to have multicultural characters throughout my books. I wanted all children to be able to see themselves in the characters and relate; To know and believe that God is with them.

BRAVE and Feathers From Above, are also beautifully illustrated. BRAVE, for ages 2-5, is a nighttime book, but it is still bright and colorful, with vivid illustrations that are perfect for the concept of the book. Feathers From Above, for ages 4-7, is completely different. Intricately illustrated with the tiniest of details, including clouds in the shape of angels, cardinals throughout, and the faintest of feathers floating with purpose.

Both of my books are perfect for kids, especially as nighttime read alouds. When a parent reads my book to their child, they will love it as much as their kiddo does.

We’d love to hear a story of resilience from your journey.

Being a stay at home mother with three kids and publishing books can be difficult. This past year alone we moved states, I published my second book, Feathers From Above, and we had our third child. It has been a whirlwind. Getting work done and marketing my books can sometimes be difficult and feel pretty impossible.

I have found that my only hope lies in 20 minute work intervals (sometimes less, sometimes more). Working when the kids have plopped down in front of the TV, when the baby is napping and all of the other “things” have gotten done, or when they have all gone to bed and I can power through the long tasks.

I think people believe that their true goals can sometimes be unattainable. They continue with the day to day, dreaming about what they would really like to be doing, but don’t have the time to start. I completely understand this perspective, but also believe that achieving your goals is fully attainable, if you are willing to work your butt off. Working little by little. Every. Single. Day. This frame of mind goes far, and gets more done than you could imagine. Not quitting. Working when you can. Working while the dinner is burning, the laundry is beeping at you, and your phone is overflowing with emails. Working in tiny, frustrating spurts, but having the mindset that you are chipping away at fulfilling your dreams.

Is there mission driving your creative journey?

My goal is to write books that entertain both children and parents. I want children to know that they are not alone through life. I hope that my books will serve as a reminder to families, that God is with them. God is there through the good and the bad.

Contact Info:

• Website: https://kathleendavisbooks.com
• Instagram: @kathleendavisbooks
• Facebook: @bravethebook.kd