Tell us about yourself and how many books you have written.
I’ve written and illustrated 5 children’s books (well, 3 really as 2 are Spanish translations). I’m from New Zealand but currently live in Andalusia, Spain. I publish in all ebook formats and in print. Each book has a different illustration style but generally I like to use a lot of colour and a range of textures. So far all my stories are told in rhyme or at least alliteration.
What is the name of your latest book and what inspired it?
ALPHABETI-COOL, inspired my the intrinsic coolness of the letters of our alphabet.
Do you have any unusual writing habits?
Nope, I guess I’m pretty normal, although because of a lack of quality writing time and space, sometimes I have to write while cooking.
What authors, or books have influenced you?
There are many books that have made an impression on me, but each for different reasons. I like the classics eg. Dr Seuss – meaningful nonsense, timeless and perfect. More recently I have been blown away by Katz Cowley’s illustrations, especially in THE FIDGETY ITCH.
What are you working on now?
I’m working on a series of educational books about the natural world for very young children. Loads of colour, tiny little nature lessons, all told in rhyme. I’m very excited about it but I have a lot of work to do.
What is your best method or website when it comes to promoting your books?
The jury is still out as I am still trying a number of avenues but I think you can’t just do one thing, you have to make yourself omnipresent (I’m not quite there yet). Using image links inside your ebooks of your other titles that link directly to where they are available is a must and can attract a lot of interest especially if you can make one of your titles free and get them in the hands of many interested readers.
Do you have any advice for new authors?
Sometimes the desire to get your book out there is overwhelming, but take your time, don’t publish until your book is ready. Writing/illustrating your masterpiece is only the beginning, then the real work begins. Fortunately there are loads of great people and resources to help you achieve your goals.
What is the best advice you have ever heard?
Don’t Put Your Finger in the Jelly, Nelly – Nick Sharratt
What are you reading now?
If I’m honest I only really read children’s books with my kids but I love reading them. Adult literature makes be sleepy. Right now we are into DOWN BY THE COOL OF THE POOL by TONY MITTON and GUY PARKER-REES.
What’s next for you as a writer?
Writing, drawing, painting, editing…promoting,promoting,promoting.
I really like the path I’m on (except that promoting is very hard work). I want to publish all the books that I have in my “to be finished” folder and that will keep me busy for quite a while. In the future I would love to do pop-up books or something interactive and really special for kids.
What is your favorite book of all time?
As all kiwi kids will probably say BAD JELLY THE WITCH by SPIKE MILLIGAN. I just checked the book to see if it was still awesome after so many years, and it was!
Author Websites and Profiles
Rebecca Bielawski Website
Rebecca Bielawski Amazon Profile
Rebecca Bielawski Author Profile on Smashwords
Rebecca Bielawski’s Social Media Links
Goodreads Profile
Facebook Profile
Twitter Account
Pinterest Account