Caitlin Stewart Harris is not your average multilingual mother. She wears countless hats, has a passion for writing and creativity, and is in the midst of publishing three books at one time. Keep reading to meet this busy author.
Let’s get started learning about you. Who is Caitlin Stewart Harris?
I am an educator, a writer, a mother of three, and an interdisciplinary coach. I am also a reader, a photographer, a traveler, a theater-goer, and a dog lover. My biggest adventures include teaching Chinese to over 2,000 students over twenty years in Nashville, designing interdisciplinary curriculum, spending time with gorillas in Uganda, traveling the Chinese Silk Road, and becoming a published author in middle age! My family, my friends, and my puppies bring me the most joy, but writing and thinking about curriculum stories fire my creative soul.
Tell us a bit about My Grandma Comes from Whales? What is it about and what inspired you to write your book?
My Grandma Comes from Whales? was inspired by all of the funny misunderstandings that happened when my kids were young. It is about a young and curious little girl who finds out her Grandma Viv’s family came from Wales. She immediately dives into “whales” research and learns a lot about whales, Wales, and splashy Grandma Viv. My mother’s family comes from Wales, and she is also very splashy!
How did you find Argyle Fox Publishing, and what convinced you that we were the right publisher for you?
I found Argyle Fox Publishing through a Facebook group of writers. Another author raved about her experience publishing for the first time with Argyle Fox Publishing. I reached out and truly had a gut feeling that the company was run by “good people.” Daniel was enthusiastic about my stories, very open about the process, and had a great sense of the timeline.
Who is your target audience, and what do you hope readers get out of your book?
I am an interdisciplinary learning specialist, and this book is perfectly aligned with my mission of wanting to spark curiosity about many things—in this case, whales, geography, grandparents, and homophones. The target audience is kids ages six to ten.
The illustrations Yumiko Kitazono created for your book are so lovely. How did you find her, and how was the process of working with her?
I found Yumiko through Reedsy and immediately fell in love with her beautiful illustrations. I had a great experience working with her. She gave me honest feedback and suggestions that made the book better. If I had questions or an idea about illustrations, she listened and reworked if necessary. I loved working with Yumiko!
Now that your book is published, how will you measure whether it’s a success? What is your goal for your story?
That the book is published feels like a success! The book is beautiful and I am so proud. I really began the journey as a learning experiment. I had been sitting on several manuscripts (not this one!) for years and decided to work with an editor and illustrator to learn about the process. So far, I believe I have sold a healthy amount—more than I expected less than one month in. I also have been so grateful for my current and former colleagues, friends, and my village as a whole. They have celebrated the book with me!
What are you doing to market your book and let folks know it is available?
I am primarily focusing on building my Instagram and author profile. I am planning to head to the Southern Festival of Books and sell my books in either the WNBA or SCBWI booth. I would LOVE to go to the Cardiff Children’s Literature Festival! A person can dream…
What feedback have you received so far on your book?
All of the feedback I have received has been positive. People love the story and the illustrations.
What did you learn about the publishing process that surprised you?
Revision, revision, and more revision! I was revising and changing small things until the last moment getting things just right!
You’ve worked with another publishing company in the past. How was your experience with Argyle Fox Publishing in comparison?
I have multiple projects in the works—one agented and one with a small publisher—but Argyle Fox Publishing is the first book I have published! It was smooth and Daniel was incredibly supportive and responsive.
What would you say to other children’s book writers who have a story but aren’t sure if it’s worth publishing?
I would recommend working with an editor. Find one who really pushes you. I have worked with three professional editors, and they were extremely integral to the process on each project.
Since you’ve written multiple books already, I suspect you have at least one more book up your sleeve. Can you give us a sneak preview of the next story bouncing around in your head? What’s it about and when do you plan to present it to the world?
I am co-authoring a book about a theater performance, which is perfectly charming. I also have one bouncing around that is silly and rhyming—a new challenge!
Where can readers find you online?
Find me and follow me (shameless plug) at the @the_wonder_ears_ on Instagram. I also have a website, caitlinstewartharris.com.
Is there anything else the world should know about you or your writing?
Most of my writing involves word play or world language. I speak Chinese and French and have studied Russian. I enjoy alliteration, puns, etc. more than the average person. I love brainstorming and talking with other writers. Reach out!
Thanks so much, and here’s to success!