Farrah M. Walters and her new release, “Poetic Parenting”

iUniverse author Farrah M. Walters tells us about her exciting new book, Poetic Parenting.

Please briefly describe your book . . .

Fictional siblings, Emma and Ken, impart words of wisdom as they reflect back on lessons from their younger days while facing tough decisions in their middle school years. Within valuable life lessons that involve their teachers, neighbors, friends, and some not-so-friendly classmates and peers, Emma and Ken learn about kindness, healthy habits, confidence, body boundaries, the importance of helping others, and the Golden Rule. Through the included anecdotes and poems, parents are guided to be proactive instead of reactive, to listen, and most of all, to unconditionally love their children, every day and no matter what.

And can you tell us a little about yourself?

I am the proud mother of two amazing children, ages 12 and 13, and I have been married to my wonderful husband for 17 years.  In addition to my blessed life with my family, I am thrilled each day to work with my high school students as a language arts teacher.  I enjoy exercise and outdoor activities, and I have a true passion for literature and writing.  My love of language and poetry has combined with my experiences as a parent and an educator to fulfill this dream of publishing my first book.

What inspired you to write your book?

As I selected literature to share with my children, I gravitated toward simple stories that created opportunities to discuss important issues and help instill necessary values.   I love the idea of teaching lessons to kids, in the guise of entertaining them.  I also appreciate all the great conversations these types of books started between my kids and myself.

Throughout the years, many people have asked for my advice on raising children, and I have found that my experiences were applicable and helpful to their situations as well.  Because of these teachable moments and their relation to other parents we knew, my husband encouraged me to put my thoughts, ideas, and methods into a book.  I feel that the focus that I have placed on values and morals with my own children will resonate with parents everywhere, through these simple and straightforward stories and poems.

What is the one message you would like to convey to your readers?

I want readers to know that raising children is not easy, but the concept behind success is simple:  put in the consistent work when kids are young, and the whole family will reap the rewards as they grow and develop into kind and helpful people.

Are you working on a sequel to your book?

I am developing a book that addresses challenges faced by high school age kids, as well as a book of personal poems.

Are there any events, marketing ideas or promotions planned for your book?

I am currently working with iUniverse on the press release and social media ads that will accompany my book.

What was your favorite part of your publishing experience, overall and with iUniverse?

My favorite part of the self-publishing process was the feeling of control and autonomy I had over my work.  I also greatly appreciated the support and the attention to detail from customer service members that took my project seriously.

Finally, what advice would you give to aspiring authors?

If writing a book feels like an insurmountable task, take one small step at a time.  That is the method that I have used for every long-term goal that I have set, and it has worked for me.  If ten steps ahead feels too far away, take one step closer to your desired outcome.

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