Children’s author Lois McGuire is chatting with me about Don’t Be That KID! At School, along with Don’t Be That KID! At School Resource Guide, and Don’t Be That KID! At Home.
Bio:
Lois McGuire has 35 years of teaching and leadership experience in the field of education. She began her career as a 4th and 5th grade teacher and retired as the Superintendent of Schools of a highly acclaimed school district in New Jersey.
Lois earned her Doctorate in Education from Rutgers University. She was an adjunct professor at Rutgers, Bloomfield College, and St. Peter’s College where she taught courses in the areas of education, psychology, and human relations. The has been a consultant to the U.S. and N.J. Departments of Educations on such topics as parent involvement, career development, character education, positive communication, and strategic planning.
Lois presently lives in Florida with her husband. She wrote the “Don’t Be That KID!” Series to help educators, parents and grandparents guide their children through the maze of building essential positive character traits.
What do you enjoy most about writing children’s books?
My books assist parents, grandparents and educators to begin to discuss important value principles in a fun way.
What genre are you inspired to write in?
Writing children’s books provide an opportunity for an author to expand children’s knowledge. In my case, learning core values.
When did you first consider yourself a writer?
I always felt there was a need for a children’s book that provided an opportunity to teach character principles. My family was out to dinner one night and one of the youngest children started to fling his milk with his straw all over the table. An older cousin admonished him by saying, “Hey, Don’t Be That KID!” We all laughed and the title of my book was born!
How do you research markets?
It is important for an author to create a business plan and include a comprehensive marketing plan within it. Think about every possible person or group who would be interested in your book. Then start to research who to get in touch with.
As a child, what did you want to be?
I always wanted to become a teacher. There is nothing more rewarding than inspiring young people to learn!