Do you live with a picky eater? You need to grab Krystal Odume’s debut children’s book, Midnight Snack. Driven by her passion for wellness, Odume wrote her book to help parents guide their children toward healthy habits from an early age. Keep reading to learn more about this newly minted author!
Let’s get started learning about you. Who is Krystal Odume?
I am a creative, first. Then I became a wife and mother. I have chosen to follow my flame, and I am teaching my children to do the same. I have learned that I love to travel, to eat good food, to pursue wellness on every level. I bring my family on that journey daily. My passion is to live a joyful life. This is my pursuit.
Tell us a bit about Midnight Snack. What is it about, what inspired the story, and how long did it take for you to move toward publication?
Midnight Snack is a family’s journey. One of the many lessons we learn as parents is healthful eating for our children. The little bunny is struggling through meals because he is a picky eater. His parents are working to teach him self-discipline.
I wrote the book in October 2022. In July 2024, I met some authors who graciously shared some of their experiences and contacts. By the fall, I was ready to begin with Argyle Fox Publishing. Between October and July I had a baby, and she completed our family of seven. But I knew several years before then that I wanted another creative outlet, one that I could involve my children in. Once I met Dr. Charnetta Williams and Valerie Thompson, I knew that was my starting line.
How did you find Argyle Fox Publishing, and what made you think we would be a good fit?
Dr. Williams was at a children’s event where I took my daughter. We spoke about her experience. She said that Daniel (Argyle Fox Publishing founder) was outstanding. I didn’t need any more convincing. Dr. Williams was completely relaxed when she spoke of her interactions with Daniel. She said he made the process so seamless and approachable. That was all I needed. It felt right. It was absolutely true!
You found your illustrator on your own. How did you connect with Tharushi Fernando, and how did you make sure Tharushi captured the heart of your characters and story so well?
I went to a book event where her work was in one of the books we bought. I really liked the watercolor/paper look of the work. I didn’t want a digital feel for the book. So, the author shared Tharushi’s contact info. During the illustration process, I showed her the rabbit I wanted to use and some books in the style I liked most. We worked through the anthropomorphism, which is something I didn’t want. She took all the notes and created something beautiful. I saw in the pages exactly what I saw in my head.
In addition to the English version, you published your book in French (Collation de minuit). Tell us about the translation process and why you chose to have your book in two languages.
The translation was quick. I used Canva to translate then read through to be sure it didn’t sound strange. I initially wrote the book for my children, and they learn in French. It is very challenging find relatable books for my children in French, so I decided to write my own.
Now that Midnight Snack is published, how will you measure whether your book is a success? What is your goal for the book?
My goal with Midnight Snack is to finance another book with the earnings. That is how I will gauge the success.
What are you doing to market your book and let folks know it is available?
I just started an Instagram account for my business. and I have a personal page. I wanted to keep things separate, though the reason doesn’t seem to make sense. But I have two IG accounts. I may work a bit more with TikTok in the future. My goal is to get into schools and learning environments, and I have begun making connections in that way. I am sourcing vendor events to attend to also spread the word.
What feedback have you received so far on your book?
The book had been on time for many people who have read it. They have said it’s beautiful and the story is well done, that it’s funny and relatable, and that the take-home lesson is bite-sized and memorable.
What do you now know about book publishing that you wish you knew before getting started?
IngramSpark is not as wonderful as I thought it would be.
What would you say to other authors who have a great story they aren’t sure if they should publish?
I think determining your raison d’etre is important. I remember from Sister Act 2, Sister Mary Clarence told the children, “I am a voice in this world, I deserve to be heard.” That resonates with me. Taking it one step at a time makes speaking your truth a tiny bit easier.
Do you have other stories up your sleeve? If so, can you give us a sneak preview of what to expect from your next book?
I absolutely have other stories up my sleeve. I hope to make Midnight Snack a part of a Crunch series. The next book is about children taking a trip to Nigeria and exploring the country.
Where can readers find you online?
My website is keyculinaryconsulting.com, and you can also find me on Instagram.
Thanks so much, and here’s to success!