Tell us about yourself and how many books you have written.
Jennifer Degl is the mother of four, including a micro preemie who was born at 23 weeks gestation, and the founder of Speaking for Moms and Babies, Inc. Her mission is to educate the public on maternal and neonatal health issues. She is the author of three books and has published articles in the Journal of Pediatrics, as well as countless online media outlets.
She is a passionate public speaker for maternal and neonatal health care issues, a member of the International Neonatal Consortium, and she also serves on the Board of Directors for NIDCAP Federation International and the NICU Parent Network.
What is the name of your latest book and what inspired it?
I Was Small But Now I’m Tall-
Many children want to know their birth stories and ask questions like:
1. How big was I when I was born?
2. Can I see a picture of me after I was born?
These questions can be difficult to answer when your baby was born prematurely.
I was Small, But Now I’m Tall is an engaging book for a child who was born prematurely, telling the tale of their earliest days in life in simple terms that kids can relate to. It tells the story of a baby that was born much too early and spent many months in the Neonatal Intensive Care Unit (NICU). This premature baby, like many others, overcame the obstacles that threatened her survival and grew into a strong child.
My daughter was born at 23 weeks gestation and weighed only 1 pound and 4 ounces. She inspires me to do everything I do.
Do you have any unusual writing habits?
I am a full-time science teacher who never knew she had a passion for writing until my life changed forever and I was faced with certain circumstances that were very difficult to process, so I started to write. I now write whenever I am feeling upset or sad.
What authors, or books have influenced you?
Memoirs and non-fiction of those who survived odds stacked against them.
What are you working on now?
A children’s picture book about “Joy”. It’s not only my daughter’s name but something that we all need more of.
What is your best method or website when it comes to promoting your books?
Amazon, my website: www.jenniferdegl.com
Do you have any advice for new authors?
Self-publishing is much more now that it once was. Give it a try.
What is the best advice you have ever heard?
You can never write too much. Write out every detail because you can always remove some later.
What are you reading now?
Resilient: How to Grow an Unshakable Core of Calm, Strength, and Happiness
What’s next for you as a writer?
more children’s picture books that help children process difficult medical circumstances.
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?
The Perfect Storm (I am an Earth Science Teacher), Charlie and the Chocolate Factory (never gets old and was a childhood favorite), a journal to make sure I have an outlet for stress and a record of my time there.
Author Websites and Profiles
Jennifet Degl Website
Jennifet Degl Amazon Profile
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