Congratulations to Three Debut Authors!
Congratulations to Buzz McClain, Lynn Hays, and Sherry Harowitz on their debuts this spring as children’s book authors!
The June 12 publication of "When There Are More Than Two" by Buzz McClain marks the third debut title published this spring by a member of the Finch and Squirrel community, following "Jack's Journey: One Kitty, Three Cities" by Lynn Hays and "Would a Kitten Do That?" by Sherry Harowitz.
The authors drew inspiration from their own lives and experiences, as well as a shared interest in creating stories for children.
McClain's "When There Are More Than Two" introduces young readers to animal collective nouns through rhyme, humor, and whimsical illustrations featuring animal antics. "I’ve been a journalist for decades but have never done a book. Having one published as this stage of my game is a real delight," said McClain, whose goal was to release his book to coincide with his granddaughter's second birthday.
In "Jack's Journey: One Kitty, Three Cities," Hays tells the mostly true story of Jack, a shelter kitten who finds adventure and his forever home with a growing family. "When COVID died down and my youngest daughter married and then became pregnant, I began to think that I could honor her story and the baby through a children’s book," said Hays.
Harowitz's "Would a Kitten Do That?" follows a curious kitten whose family loves her unconditionally despite the chaos and mess she leaves wherever she goes. “I was inspired by a real-life kitten who was equal parts crazy and cuddly,” Harowitz said. “And I wanted to share a little of the magical feeling of being part of a kitten's life.”
The growth of indie publishing has created opportunities for more writers to share their work with readers, no approval needed from an indutry gatekeeper. With access to professional editing, design, illustration, and production services, independent authors can stay in control and create books that stand alongside those produced by the big publishing houses.
I can’t wait to see what Buzz, Lynn, and Sherry do next!
Their titles can be ordered from independent bookstores and online retailers.
