Candicee Childs is the author of the children's picture book Cece's Sour + Sweet Journey to Medical School. She also has written the memoir Lemons, Lemonade, and the Lemonade Stand. She is a resident physician at Masssachusetts General Hospital in Boston.
Q: What inspired you to write Cece’s Sour + Sweet Journey to Medical School?
A: The inspiration actually came from one of the most unexpected places…my hairdresser’s chair! During a conversation about my journey to becoming a doctor, my hairdresser said, “You should write a children’s book about this,” and that idea stayed with me.
I wanted to create the kind of story I wish I had when I was chasing my own dream, and now I hope it helps plant seeds of hope, perseverance, and possibility in all young readers, including children of color who I want to also be able to see themselves in STEM and medicine.
Q: What do you think Setiawan’s illustrations add to the story?
A: The illustrations bring Cece’s journey to life in such a warm way. They beautifully capture not only the moments she experiences, but also the emotions behind them, both the sour and the sweet.
I especially love how they help normalize feelings like sadness, disappointment, and joy, while showing healthy ways to move through those emotions.
Q: How was the book’s title chosen, and what does it signify for you?
A: The title was inspired by the saying, “When life gives you lemons, make lemonade,” which perfectly reflects the heart of the story. It also ties back to my memoir, Lemons, Lemonade, and the Lemonade Stand: My Bittersweet Journey to Medical School.
For me, it represents the truth that every journey has both sour and sweet moments, and both are important parts of growth.
Q: What do you hope readers take away from the book?
A: I want readers, especially children, to know that it’s okay to fail and not get something right the first or even second time. Failure is not the end; it’s often where growth begins.
My hope is that kids walk away understanding that dreams take time, asking for help is a strength, and every challenge helps shape who they become.
Q: What are you working on now?
A: I’m currently working on a children’s activity book called Cece’s Sour & Sweet Adventure: A Fun Activity Book for Dreamers and Achievers Like You! It includes 50 fun activities like mazes, word puzzles, coloring pages, and journal prompts.
The goal is to help kids build resilience, develop a growth mindset, and dream big while having fun.
Q: Anything else we should know?
A: This book is deeply personal to me because it is dedicated to my family, especially my late mother, Tina Sims Childs. She was the true definition of a dreamer and believer, and she poured that spirit into me.
My greatest hope is that this book helps children feel encouraged, supported, and reminded that failure never means they should stop believing in themselves.
--Interview with Deborah Kalb
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