Tell us about yourself and how many books you have written.
I am a children’s illustrator and this is the first book I have written (co-authored) and published.
What is the name of your latest book and what inspired it?
When Michelle Met the Queen is a charming story of how Michelle Obama’s and Queen Elizabeth II’s families linked with one another across time. After the first Queen Elizabeth of England’s death, Britain became involved in the slave trade from Africa to the colonies. First Lady Michelle Obama’s great, great grandfather was a slave, and it was after many years of struggle and hardship that her family finally saw blacks gain freedom in the U.S.
Shelley and Pauline believe it is the responsibility of whites to expose the injustices perpetrated against people of color over the centuries, and to stand up for the resulting injustice and inequity we see today. They know you will want copies of this interesting and timely story.
What authors, or books have influenced you?
Jon Klassen and Kass Reich – illustrators
What are you working on now?
I have just produced 2021 A Dog of a Year and A Catty Year Calendars – this is the third year I have produced these calendars
What is your best method or website when it comes to promoting your books?
Facebook, my own website http://www.goodbuddynotes.com and https://www.michelleobamachildrensbook.com
Do you have any advice for new authors?
I don’t – but primarily because this year, with the Covid 19 pandemic, has meant that a lot of resources have evaporated for selling new products –
What is the best advice you have ever heard?
Most of the childrens books I have illustrated have required the approval of the author – and so if an author is really demanding and picky – I advise that you muster on – since you must meet the author’s demands and expectations.
What are you reading now?
I love mysteries and detective stories – and favorite authors are Martin Walker, Louise Penney, and I loved Sue Grafton’s books
What’s next for you as a writer?
I have a couple of children’s books I would like to publish – one is a flip book for children to learn alphabet letters and short words using the dozen illustrated alphabets I have created.
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?
Thrillers – there are so many titles it is hard to narrow down the choices!
Author Websites and Profiles
Shelley Dieterichs Website
Shelley Dieterichs’s Social Media Links
Facebook Profile
Twitter Account
Pinterest Account