Children’s author Denise Alicea chats with me about her new picture book, Santa Claws: A Christmas Tail for Cats.
During her virtual book tour, Denise will be giving away a $15 Amazon or Barnes and Noble (winner’s choice) gift card to a lucky randomly drawn participant. 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:
Born in Manhattan and raised in Connecticut, Denise Alicea started writing when drawing and painting simply weren’t enough. A writer of poetry, fantasy, time travel, romance and more, Denise has won several awards and has had several finalist nominations. She loves technology, reading, watching movies, and managing her blog over at The Pen & Muse Book Reviews.
What do you enjoy most about writing short stories/children’s books/novellas?
Short stories as well as kids’ books gives us a chance as authors to really work a story and introduce great characters in a short amount of time. It’s a fun way to give readers a quick read that they can come back to at any time. Children’s books are fun as they allow us to look into the child within us and share what’s in our imaginations.
Here’s an excerpt from Santa Claws:
Can you give us a little insight into a few of your short stories – perhaps some of your favorites?
I would have to say that Santa Claws is one of my favorites as it’s near and dear to my heart. It’s a children’s book honoring one of my cats who passed away. Apollo was such a character, and I hope I did him justice.
What genre are you inspired to write in the most? Why?
The genre I am inspired to write most would be that of children’s books currently, because I can share all the fun things I wished as a kid. I also love writing poetry because it allows me to get my feelings on paper.
What exciting story are you working on next?
I am working on another children’s picture book called Luna’s London Adventure: A curious cat’s tale. It will be another book to honor one of my first cats name Luna.
When did you first consider yourself a writer?
I was really a young woman when I considered myself a writer. I have been writing since I was a teenager and really have stuck with it. I had a great mentor growing up as well.
How do you research markets for your work, perhaps as some advice for writers?
I always look at what types of stories are doing well. I also will try to read what others have done in that genre to familiarize myself with it. As a writer you always must be open to research, read, and even take courses to help.
What would you say is your interesting writing quirk?
I love to listen to music while I work.
As a child, what did you want to be when you grew up?
I wanted to be a vet because I love animals.
Anything additional you want to share with the readers?
Thank you for taking the time to read my new story. I hope you enjoy it!
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