Cerys Thompson, Episode 56: From Grandfather's Inspiration to Children's Book Publication: The Galloping Frog

Cerys Thompson, a recently published children's book author, shares her profound journey in creating "The Galloping Frog," a narrative imbued with personal significance and whimsical charm. 

Central to our discussion is the exploration of what it means to be a children's author, a role that Thompson embraces with both joy and humility. 

We delve into the inspiration drawn from her grandfather, whose playful character and imaginative storytelling ignited the spark for her book. She recounts her childhood experiences with her grandfather, who introduced her to the whimsical concept of the Galloping Frog during their visits to England.

These cherished memories inspired her to transform this character into a vibrant story that not only reflects her personal history but also resonates with young readers. Cerys emphasizes the sheer joy of hearing children engage with her book, articulating how it connects her to her grandfather's playful spirit.

Throughout our conversation, we examine the intricate process of authoring a children's book, from initial concept to publication, highlighting the importance of creativity and perseverance. 

Ultimately, Cerys's heartfelt reflections illuminate the joys of sharing a beloved story with young readers, making this episode a poignant exploration of passion and literary expression.

Takeaways:

• The journey of becoming a children's book author is often filled with unexpected challenges and joys, as illustrated by Cerys's experiences with her book, the Galloping Frog. 
• Cerys emphasizes the importance of having fun and creativity in writing children's literature, highlighting that the joy of storytelling should remain paramount. 
• The significance of community support is evident, as Cerys's local bookstore and pharmacy helped promote her book, showcasing the value of local connections in the publishing journey. 
• Cerys's reflections on her grandfather's influence show how personal stories can inspire creative works, illustrating that the roots of storytelling often lie in cherished memories. 
• Constructive criticism from peers, such as Cerys's uncle, plays a crucial role in refining a manuscript, demonstrating that feedback can significantly enhance a writer's work. 
• Success as a children's author, according to Cerys, is measured not just by sales figures, but by the joy and engagement her books bring to children and families. 

Companies mentioned in this episode:

• Amazon
• Found Bookstore, Cochrane, Alberta, Canada
• Two Pharmacy, Cochrane, Alberta, Canada

Links:

• https://www.thegallopingfrog.com/
• http://Foundbookshop.com
• The Galloping Frog (Amazon Book)