Children’s author Renée James chats with me today about her new picture book, Patroosh, the Hungry Pelican.
During her virtual book tour, Renee will be awarding a $15 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:
Meet Renée James, a creative powerhouse with a background in communications and commercial television.
With over 15 years of experience, she’s now the boss lady of Mystery Lane Media, her own video production company, and the mastermind behind Patroosh.com.au, an online shop.
When she’s not busy crafting compelling content, you can find her soaking up quality time with her family, including her adorable pups.
She’s also a travel enthusiast, beach lover, and a big fan of story-time. Her kids are the coolest, and always inspire her to live in the moment and embrace playtime.
Welcome, Renee. Please tell us about your current release.
Join Patroosh, the hungry pelican and Seamus the seagull on their lunchtime adventure! Follow these two feathered friends as they explore their favourite marina café looking for the perfect meal. From pancakes and milkshakes to fish and chips, plus a particular condiment they can’t resist–ketchup–this fun-filled journey will delight young readers with its imaginative celebration of language and vibrant illustrations. See what unexpected surprises await the diners as they indulge in their lunchtime desires!
What inspired you to write this book?
My family and I spend a lot of time over at a beach area near a local boat ramp, and over the years, we have become very familiar with the pelicans and seagulls habits. The inspiration for writing the first book in the Patroosh series called, Patroosh, the Cheeky Pelican, came from observing my own children’s hilarious interactions with these feathered friends. The story came naturally based on our own experiences with one cheeky pelican in particular. Flash forward after the success of my first book I have now created a series of adventures. Patroosh, the Hungry Pelican was inspired by some fun conversations about my children’s new found food preferences and fussiness. I absolutely love writing children’s picture books. There’s something truly magical about the imaginative world that comes to life during story time. Hearing from families and classrooms who enjoy my books brings me pure joy and gratitude. It’s a dream come true to share my stories and bring happiness to others.
Excerpt from Patroosh, the Hungry Pelican:
“Under the deck of the Marina Café are two little friends who will not go away. They can see through the cracks in the timber floor, smelling pancakes with syrup, burgers, and more.
Out comes a basket full of fresh seafood. Patroosh’s and Seamus’ eyes widen as they prepare to swoop. First goes Patroosh, flapping his wings and dancing like mad. SQUAWK SQUAWK SQUAWK.
While the people at the table turn to shoo him away, in swoops Seamus to salvage the day. He picks the basket up as neatly as can be and says “Thank you” as he flies off happily.”
What exciting project are you working on next?
I’m beyond excited to share that I have two more children’s books launching this year. The third book in the Patroosh series, Patroosh, the Surprised Pelican, along with a new set of characters called Tiny Green Unicorns. Just like my other books, these books offer captivating stories, vibrant illustrations, and plenty of educational opportunities.
When did you first consider yourself a writer?
I used to work for preschool television and have made a career out of helping others achieve their creative visions through storytelling in the form of video, and scriptwriting. I took the leap of faith and dove into author life in my thirties as writing children’s books is something I dreamed of doing since I was in my teens.
Do you write full-time? If so, what’s your workday like? If not, what do you do other than write and how do you find time to write?
I’m a proud mum of three beautiful children, I head up my own video production company, I also have an e-commerce business based on Patroosh, I write children’s books whenever inspiration strikes, and work remotely at home with another casual job. One day I hope to be able to become a full-time writer.
What would you say is your interesting writing quirk?
This is a tricky question and I look forward to hearing your opinion in your review but I would say incorporating simple and relatable themes, using repetition and rhyming, and making the story engaging and interactive for young readers.
As a child, what did you want to be when you grew up?
I wanted to be so many things growing up! An actress, a professional swimmer, a filmmaker, and a make-up artist. I’ve always been a creative person to the core and have always enjoyed storytelling.
Anything additional you want to share with the readers?
I hope you enjoy reading this book as much as I enjoyed writing it. If you have any little fussy eaters in your life, I hope this story sparks some fun conversations about their food likes and dislikes.
Thank you for hosting me on your blog, and happy reading!
Renée
You’re quite welcome! Thanks for being here!
Links:
Website – author | Book site | Facebook – author | Instagram – author | Facebook – Book | Instagram – Book
Thanks for hosting!
Thanks for having me!
The cover is too cute. Love it.
This is a great book to read with my son!
This looks like a great read!
I love the book cover!! Looks like such a fun read!!