Tell us about yourself and how many books you have written.
I’m a proud indie author who focuses on helping kids, teens and young adults find their confidence sooner in life. As a young teen, I was terrified of not being perfect, opening my mouth if I didn’t have a well-crafted idea and I sought approval in anywhere I could get it. Flash forward to now, I’m a strong, confident adult who wants to show others how they can break through to be the best version of themselves to live their life to their full potential.
I’ve written two creations thus far:
> Happy Bright Light: A Weekly Empowerment Guide (paperback — includes full color and nature photography and an ebook)
> Dear Every Kid: Daily Confidence Reminders (a $0.99 mini ebook)
What is the name of your latest book and what inspired it?
This past summer I have released both my books, which were inspired from my journey to finding my thick skin and happiness.
Do you have any unusual writing habits?
I don’t write anywhere besides on my couch. When I get stuck, I listen to Enya to refocus and relax. It brings me back to lazy Sunday’s at my father’s house.
What authors, or books have influenced you?
I’ve been inspired by Louise Hay, who puts things very simply.
From a business-smarts standpoint, I also love the original works by Napoleon Hill, who was inspired by the amazing Andrew Carnegie.
As a career-focused woman, I was blown away by magnificent Sheryl Sandberg who authored Lean In.
What are you working on now?
I’m currently working on another project more content heavy for adults.
What is your best method or website when it comes to promoting your books?
I’m just starting personal promotion, but my favorite method currently is sharing with a core group of friends, family and inspiring contacts on social media. I’ve built new relationships and strengthened current ones this way. I don’t believe it’s just about marketing a book, it’s about getting to know people and their stories so we can learn from each other.
Do you have any advice for new authors?
My advice to new authors is to not only write for their intended audience, but to write for themselves because it’s a personal journey that includes a lot of layers in the process as a whole.
What is the best advice you have ever heard?
The best advice I’ve heard and also apply in my life is to listen to others’ advice but to make your own decisions.
What are you reading now?
I’m a bit of a geek and love to read knowledgable books. I’m reading a couple books at the moment: Freakonoics, Book Marketing is dead.
What’s next for you as a writer?
In addition to continuing to write my next book, I’m also working on putting some workshops together for kids about how to build their confidence and self-esteem. I’d like to integrate nature photography as well to show how amazing it can be to explore and take in the world around us.
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’d bring a blank book to reflect my own thoughts and doodles. I’d also bring one of my favorite childhood books like the Phantom Tollbooth by Norton Juster or a Wrinkle In Time by Madeleine L’Engle. Lastly, I’d bring one of the books by the enlightened Dalai Lama such as The Art of Happiness.
Author Websites and Profiles
Kelly Stone Website
Kelly Stone Amazon Profile
Kelly Stone’s Social Media Links
Goodreads Profile
Facebook Profile
Twitter Account