Cindy Williams Schrauben is excited to give back to the writing community that has been so instrumental in her own publishing journey. Cindy lives in central Michigan where she writes empowering books for kids that range from the truly serious to the seriously silly. When not writing or honing her craft, this award-winning author might be found dissecting her grandsons’ shenanigans for story ideas, reading on the floor in the bookstore, or eating ice cream… ideally all at once. Her first book, This Could Be You, received various awards including a starred review from Kirkus. Her upcoming picture book, entitled Hank's Change of Heart, is due out later this year.
You can connect with Cindy at www.cindyschrauben.com or www.direct.me/cindywilliamsschrauben
1. How did you begin your journey as an author?
My journey writing books for children began just before my youngest daughter left for college. As a highly involved parent, I knew that this stage in life was going to be extremely difficult for me and that I needed to be proactive. As is true of many parents, I often put my own emotional needs on the back burner. It was time to accomplish a dream that had lain dormant for years. So, I made myself a promise and never looked back. That promise, to publish a book for children, was one of the best things I had ever done for myself. My first book, This Could Be You, was published just after my 63rd birthday.
2. Do you ever struggle to come up with your next project? Or do you have lots of ideas and find it a challenge to narrow down your ideas?
Coming up with new ideas for children’s books has never been a struggle for me. I have lists upon lists of what felt like good ideas at the moment. Some are as simple as a problem or character name, while others have a bit more focus, but for me, taking them further is the real battle. My ‘look-a-squirrel’ brain struggles more with seeing the big picture and wrangling those ideas into a viable story.
3. What do you feel you’ve gained from being a part of the children’s writing community?
I would NEVER have become a published author without the children’s writing community - period. From classes, to conferences and blogs like this to critique partners, the support has been the key to moving forward. The craft expertise that I have gained from other authors has been invaluable, but that is not the whole picture. The acceptance, strength, and understanding that these groups and individuals have imparted on me has been crucial in my journey. This community is as generous as they come and giving back myself is important to me.
4. If you could tell readers one secret about This Could Be You, what would it be?
This is more of a fun fact than an actual secret, but there is a real-life example of growth mindset hidden in This Could Be You. Per my publisher’s request, the illustrator, Julia Seal, used a photo of me as a child to create a character who dreams of becoming an author. Students enjoy seeing the picture of me as a 7 year old alongside this character. Especially when I ask them if it looks like me. Ha, not so much anymore.
My favorite memory is of a young (maybe four year old) boy who raced to my table, excitedly pointed to the cover and exclaimed, “Mom, look, it’s me!” His joy at seeing a child who looked like him on the cover of a picture book is what it is all about, right?
5. If you read this book to a room filled with kids, what message would you want them to leave with?
As far as the message goes, the title of my book says it all… This Could Be You. Empowering people to embrace a growth mindset is one of my greatest passions. It guides my writing, my speaking engagements, and even my own career. Studies show that a growth mindset is a fundamental element of success - for adults and children. Speaking that truth is what I am all about.
6. What are you working on? What’s next for you?
Per usual, I am working on several projects - some involve writing while others are focused more on educating and empowering others. I am working on strengthening my illustration skills and accomplishing my dream of being an author/illustrator. This dream may never be realized, but ‘growth mindset’, right? Plus, I love the process. I am also working on a chapter book series, an adult joke book, and a line of products for my new Author Apothecary business which I hope will inspire other writers to keep striving. ‘Squirrel-brain’, remember?