Tell us about yourself and how many books you have written.
Im a mama to FIVE children (yes, I know that’s a lot) and a wife. I told this story to my three young sons when they were afraid of a thunderstorm one night. My (now) 3 yr old wouldn’t hear any story that didn’t include dinosaurs, so naturally, my first book HAD to have dinosaurs. One night, over dinner, it occurred to me that I should publish that story…and because I said it out loud to my children, it didn’t matter how hard it was to complete: I had to. I worked on my first (currently only published) book throughout my 5th pregnancy. I wrote it and then spent 6 months illustrating it myself. I worked on it at night while my children slept (8:30p-1 or 2am every day). I finished it 3 days before my only daughter was born and sent it off to the printer! I hope that children love my book. I also hope their mamas know that it’s possible (and OK!!) to chase their own dreams… even if it means burning the midnight oil. 🙂
What is the name of your latest book and what inspired it?
When The Sky Roars – my children, their fear of thunder and love of dinosaurs inspired this book!
Do you have any unusual writing habits?
Yes. I have to write it all in one sitting. For this book, it meant 14 hours straight. The reason being… I can’t always rhyme! I have to be in the right mood to naturally hear the stressed and unstressed syllables. My bio took me 8 hours to write in rhyme. But, I work best that way – laser focused. I wish the illustration weren’t so time consuming! 🙂
(The book was edited by a professional, still, of course!)
What authors, or books have influenced you?
Oh, there’s not enough time to properly answer this question. I love children’s books – they’re my favorite and if there’s one near me, I’ll read it even if my children are in another room. I’m active in the author community-I design and format children’s picture books for other authors. I illustrated one other book – Oodles and Oodles of Noodley Noodles by Cindy Ninni Grant (and I’m working on illustrations for her second book right now) and I just fell in love with the whole publishing process. The kid’s book community – and the friendships Ive made in it – are truly something special.
What are you working on now?
I’m working on Cindy Ninni Grant’s second book – My Bumpy Lumpy Belly Button (illustrations) and I’m currently having two new books of my own professionally edited (its an extensive process. Lots of revisions and editing!)
What is your best method or website when it comes to promoting your books?
I really love to connect with readers…. I, personally, love in-person events and school visits!
Do you have any advice for new authors?
It’s hard. But absolutely worth it.
It’s expensive to self-publish. Don’t cut corners. Hire professional editors, a good illustrator and a good book designer – it makes the difference between a book that will sell and one that won’t.
What is the best advice you have ever heard?
Everything is hard but you get to choose your hard. My personal motto is being “relentlessly productive”. I try not to waste even a second of my day.
What are you reading now?
Oh, goodness. I’m in the market for a new book – have any recommendations for a “big kid” book? 😉
What’s next for you as a writer?
Working on two new books which will, hopefully, be coming out in 2022!
Author Websites and Profiles
Katie Weaver Website
Katie Weaver Amazon Profile
Katie Weaver’s Social Media Links
Goodreads Profile
Facebook Profile