Author Bio:
Tracy Bryan is a self-published author for kids aged 4-12. She writes whimsical non-fiction picture books about emotions, coping skills, mental wellness and mindfulness. Tracy also likes to tackle social issues and speak directly to her readers about important topics that affect everyone. Tracy hopes to inspire and empower kids and their families with her books. She will be releasing her debut fiction picture book called “Put Away Your Phone!” this spring!
Tracy also writes a monthly personal blog for adults on her website and one for kids called The Awesomeness Blog. Follow her on Facebook (TracyBryanAuthor) and Twitter (@tracybryan19) To contact and learn more about Tracy
please email her at tracy@tracybryan.com or visit her website tracybryan.com
What inspires you to write?
My main inspiration comes from my family. I have an amazing husband who loves, grounds and supports me in all areas of my life. I have three fantastic grown kids who have not just been the subject matter, in some cases, behind my writing, but also who continue to motivate me with their awesomeness! I have two little jack russell doggies who give me purpose- because they motivate me to walk at least twice a day(and my walking meditation is where most of my book ideas come from!)
Process? I’m a creative mess I’m afraid-passionate, scattered, impulsive and emotional. It always seems to come together when I type it all into my computer though!
Tell us about your writing process.
I do A LOT of research for my non fiction books! I’m fanatical about getting my facts straight, because it’s important for me to be true to my word. My books have a narrative to them-my words speak directly to the child, so I want kids to feel they can trust me and parents to believe that I am trustworthy. They need to know that what I’m saying to their child is valid and that I have integrity and am reputable -I would for my child!
For Fiction Writers: Do you listen (or talk to) to your characters?
I ALWAYS read my stories out loud so that I can hear them as a child/parent would. I speak the dialogue in a voice that I believe would best represent the character. I used to do this with my kids and I think becoming the character makes a story more believable -not to mention fun! My major in school was theatre, so I can’t help but make the characters come alive!
Who are your favorite authors?
Robert Munsch-Children’s author, Judy Blume-Middle/YA/Adult,Stephen King-Adult
How did you decide how to publish your books?
I find self-publishing a much smoother and faster process. I like having complete creative control. I am currently in the process of collaborating with a children’s illustrator and I love how there is just me and him-we work so well together! I can’t imagine someone else placing demands on us or editing our process-yuck! I have submitted manuscripts to over two dozen traditional publishers in the past (some are currently still out there).I find this route very frustrating though because the publishing industry can be very pretentious. I don’t want to wait for a publisher who may or may not pick up my manuscript when I could be getting it out there for kids that need it. I’m also an entrepreneur at heart and I don’t see the logic in missing out on possible sales of my book because I’m waiting around for a publisher to validate my work. I continue to generate sales of my books so far each month and that’s good enough for me.
What do you think about the future of book publishing?
Honestly, I hope and want every writer (especially my friends) to have at least one of their readers to let them know that they helped, made happy, brought joy to them. That’s all any children’s writer really wants. Whether it be through a traditional publisher, self, e-book, paper book or audiobook…as long as we keep giving them something to read!
What genres do you write?
children’s non-fiction & fiction, adult non-fiction
What formats are your books in?
eBook, Print
Website(s)
Tracy Bryan Home Page Link
Link To Tracy Bryan Page On Amazon
