Interview with children’s writer Tracey Szynkaruk

Today’s special guest is author Tracey Szynkaruk. She’s chatting with me about her new children’s book, A Plastic-Free World for You and Me.

During her virtual book tour, Tracey will be awarding a $20 Amazon or Barnes and Noble (winner’s choice) gift card to a lucky randomly drawn winner. To be entered for a chance to win, use the form below. To increase your chances of winning, feel free to visit her other tour stops and enter there, too!

Bio:
Tracey Szynkaruk is a young author and mother of one who resides in Grand Forks, British Columbia. She hopes she can inspire people to make plastic-free choices for a cleaner and more sustainable world for her children and yours!

What do you enjoy most about writing short stories?
I was inspired to write my first short story based on what is happening in your world today. I feel like it is an extremely relevant topic that needs discussion in order to implement changes in our daily lives.

Can you give us a little insight into a few of your short stories – perhaps some of your favorites?
This is my first short story, but some of my favourite short stories are ones that teach morals and values such as, The Boy Who Cried Wolf and The Midas Touch.

What genre are you inspired to write in the most? Why?
I may dabble into fiction. I feel like I have some ideas that are worth exploring and bringing to life.

Excerpt from A Plastic-Free World for You and Me:
On Monday, at school, Ms. Cho addresses the students: “Was anybody able to reduce plastic use in their home on the weekend? Can anyone share their story?” Everyone in the classroom shoots up their hands excitedly!

Ms. Cho says, “Oh this is great! Let’s hear some stories. Denise, why don’t you share your experience?”

Denise says, “My parents have stopped buying bottled water, we are going to only use compostable dog waste bags and start a compost at home!”

What exciting story are you working on next?
I recently had my second child so I am not currently working on anything but I have quite a few ideas that I would like to pursue when I can.

When did you first consider yourself a writer?
I suppose it was when I saw my book came together nicely and I had a story to tell.

How do you research markets for your work, perhaps as some advice for writers?
I spent some time researching my topic so that I would build a knowledge base to work off of. I would tell other writers to do the same to avoid making assumptions and to be able to educate others accordingly.

What would you say is your interesting writing quirk?
As this was my first book, I don’t believe I have one quite yet but I’m sure that will change if I publish other books.

As a child, what did you want to be when you grew up?
I wanted to be a pediatrician as I enjoy spending time with children and being able to help them when they need it most would have been great.

Anything additional you want to share with the readers?
I hope my book can inspire you to make some relevant and necessary changes in your life in regards to plastic use!