Cub’s Wish came easy because of all the conversations we had as a family, and we knew in spite of not having or affording material possessions, ultimately, we were happy.
Angie Flores – 27 July 2017
The Back Flap
Making wishes for a wishing star is not always as easy as it seems, especially knowing the wish may be granted. Cub’s Wish brings out the sweet moments of conversation between parent and child and the understanding that sometimes we all need a little guidance to achieve our dreams.
About the book
What is the book about?
Cub’s Wish is a sweet conversation between Papa and Cub who try and find the perfect wish for the wishing star to grant
When did you start writing the book?
I started writing my books in 2010.
How long did it take you to write it?
Cub’s Wish took a very short time to write because I was influenced by my sons, who I wanted to have something to read to them at night. I worked full time, and my kids wanted stories to be read to them at bed time. When I would read from books, my eyes would not stay open, and I would be out before they would. So to be fair I asked them to give me animals and situations, and come up with stories on the spot, which I had to stay awake to create. Trouble was, like most kids they wanted to hear the same story again. So I had to start writing them down.
Where did you get the idea from?
My boys had these wonderful imaginations. Whenever a Lottery commercial would come up, we would always talk about what we would do.
Were there any parts of the book where you struggled?
The only part I struggled with was editing it down from 700 words to the 500 word requirement from most agents and publishers. I knew that it was still over the count by 50 or so words, and I did not want to lose the essence of the story. So thinking I may be rejected for that if not the story, I decided to self publish.
What came easily?
Cub’s Wish came easy because of all the conversations we had as a family, and we knew in spite of not having or affording material possessions, ultimately, we were happy.
Are your characters entirely fictitious or have you borrowed from real world people you know?
That’s up to the reader. Cub is every child, and Papa is every adult caregiver. I used to teach pre-school and along with my own children, these are all questions and concepts that come up. I always had someone in my life while I was growing up, who was the voice of reason, that guided me to thinking about my decisions.
We all know how important it is for writers to read. Are there any particular authors that have influenced how you write and, if so, how have they influenced you?
The Giving Tree by Shel Silverstein was read to me often, I then shared it with my boys. His message was strong and was the first story that really had a message. On another note, J.K. Rowling started me reading again after a long hiatus from working and having a family. Her style of writing was so interesting. I could not put any of the Harry Potter books down and actually read them all a few times. But one main reason is her journey which I admire and am inspired by. She was rejected enough times to make any writer want to give up, but she believed and held on. A true inspiration which keeps me doing what I am doing.
Do you have a target reader?
My target is anyone who has had a wish. Anyone who wants to have a conversation with a child about what would they wish for. Anyone who wants to feel warm and cozy. I have had adults who have no children, buy my book to keep on their coffee table because of its message. That really inspires me.
About Writing
Do you have a writing process? If so can you please describe it?
When an idea comes to my head I run straight to the computer or turn on the recorder on my phone, and purge it before I forget it. I usually would like to have a tangy sweet scented candle burning and a cup of green tea with the only light in the room coming from the computer and candle.
Do you outline? If so, do you do so extensively or just chapter headings and a couple of sentences?
No, I just go with the flow. I feel it is more organic. I have written 20 stories, a TV pilot and a screenplay, which I am changing into a novel this way. I am spontaneous by nature. I am most creative just doing what comes naturally.
Do you edit as you go or wait until you’ve finished?
I get it all out of my head on to paper, then go back. With picture / children’s books you really need to edit because of word count guidelines. I wait to see where I can still keep the story intact before deleting.
Did you hire a professional editor?
No, I did not hire. I have a very talented editor friend, Alana Gurigess who kindly helped me for this project. I am on the board of the Children’s Book Writer’s of Los Angeles. We are a community of writers, illustrator, publishers, and former industry professionals who are very supportive of one another.
Do you listen to music while you write? If yes, what gets the fingers tapping?
Enya’s angelic sounds soothe and inspire me. Then I switch to old Morrisey, Depeche Mode, UB40 – alternative 80’s (don’t judge, I have my reasons)
About Publishing
Did you submit your work to Agents?
Yes, but not many. I wanted a little more control with my first book. I heard stories about losing all creative rights when you hand your story over. Whether true or not, I love my Cub, and thought it would be a great learning experience.
What made you decide to go Indie, whether self-publishing or with an indie publisher? Was it a particular event or a gradual process?
I wanted a little freedom with my first book. I wanted to decide on the illustration, the story, I wanted to see how I could do it on my own. At least for my first book.
Did you get your book cover professionally done or did you do it yourself?
My illustrations were done by a student. The Art teacher at our local school took my stories as an illustration project and I found my diamond in his class. I wanted to give a young artist an opportunity to go on this journey with me.
Do you have a marketing plan for the book or are you just winging it?
Just work hard, market, market, market however I can. Find new and unique ideas on how to spin the message to various groups. For instance, since Cub’s Wish is about a Papa and Cub, I marketed it as a great Father’s Day gift from a child to a dad. “Give dad a bed time story”. It has brought in a few sales so far. Just have to be creative. Winging it forces leaveing doors open for creativity.
Any advice that you would like to give to other newbies considering becoming Indie authors?
Don’t quit your day job (If you have one). You’ll need a way to finance your dream, you will appreciate your efforts more. Success may not be instant, so be patient. You will be putting in a lot of your time and money to get your book out there. Don’t stop, because your message may change someone’s life – that “someone” may still be out there waiting. Believe in what you do. You should not go in to this half way. If this is your dream, your passion, then follow it and stick with it. I treat my stories like my children. I will not just have them and send them off. My stories need nurturing and care. Once you do that, you can feel confident when others you have done the best you could before moving on. Not everyone will like your story – And that is perfectly fine. Focus on those that do like your story. Opinions are like bellybuttons – everyone’s got one!
About You
Where did you grow up?
I grew up in Hollywood, California – Roller Skating on the boulevard and at Venice Beach
Where do you live now?
I am now in the South Bay of Los Angeles with my husband and 3 grown boys, and am still roller skating, but now along the south bay beaches.
What would you like readers to know about you?
I am a big child whose body may be aging, but my brain says I’m still young and invincible! I’ve worked with children of all ages, including special needs children and adults, before hitting the corporate scene. My background is in Human Resources, and degree from CSU Dominguez Hills is in Human Services / Psychology. I love people and hearing their stories of growth. Pop Culture, old MGM Musicals, Tim Burton movies, and cosplay are things that spark my interest. I’m just like most folks – a bit quirkier.
What are you working on now?
I have 20 other stories that need illustrators, which financially will have to wait. I want to take care of Cub for a little while and enjoy the journey before I put my attention into another “Child”.
Upon Cub’s Wish release, it hit #1 new release in 3 categories and reached #2,767 of all 11 million + books on Amazon. Amazon sold out of the book in the first 12 hours. Cub’s Wish received a 5 star rating from reader’s Choice and was Honorably Mentioned in the Paris Book Festival and San Francisco Book Festival. And this is only the beginning!
End of Interview.
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