Tell us about yourself and how many books you have written.
Hi! My name is Chris and I live in West London with my newly adopted little boy and my husband. This is my first book that I have written. I wanted to write this book to give help to those going through the UK adoption process and also to help prepare those considering adoption.
What is the name of your latest book and what inspired it?
The name of my book is MY ADOPTION JOURNEY 2015-2019 HOW MY DREAM BECAME A REALITY, YOURS COULD TOO.
During my adoption journey I soon realised that nobody has really documented their experiences during the adoption process, this is something that I really wanted to hear, not just the good parts but the true raw feelings. Adoption is hugely stressful and there is so much pressure on you from social workers. If we had heard this I think we would have been more prepared. There are tonnes of books out there for pregnancy experiences as well as surrogacy but nothing really for adoption other than VLOGS but then these are after the adoption etc. So not having this inspired me to write about my journey and to give advice to those going through it or those considering adoption.
Do you have any unusual writing habits?
This is the first book that I have written so not really but. I did tend to write these whilst munching or in the early hours so I suppose they could be my unusual writing habits!
What authors, or books have influenced you?
A few of the books that I read to my son are by a fab author called Olly Pike, his books are amazing and so educational. They focus on LGBT and diversity, fab twists on the traditional children’s books.
What are you working on now?
I am currently not working on putting another book together since I have just published. However I am writing a diary of the first year of adoption which I may publish in the new year.
What is your best method or website when it comes to promoting your books?
As this is the first book that I have published I am utilising every method and website. Amazon has been amazing and very useful. I have also used kindlepreneur.com which has fab tips of promoting books.
Do you have any advice for new authors?
Just go for it. If you have that urge do it. Once you have written get the word out through friends and family, utilise social media. However, be wary of publishers especially if they suggest a contribution-based contract – just don’t sign. Amazon and Lulu are great for self-publishing.
What is the best advice you have ever heard?
Go with your gut! Has never done me wrong before.
What are you reading now?
Not currently reading but finished the ultimate classics…Harry Potter.
What’s next for you as a writer?
To continue the daily journal which I am considering making into my next book.
If you were going to be stranded on a desert island and allowed to take 3 or 4 books with you what books would you bring?
I would have to bring the Harry Potter books, my ultimate childhood books.
Author Websites and Profiles
Christopher Gaidhu-Withell Website
Christopher Gaidhu-Withell Amazon Profile