Q&A with K. Joyner

 

 

 

K. Joyner is the author of the new children's picture book I Don't Think So!. She worked in the field of industrial engineering for many years, and she lives in the Atlanta area.

 

Q: What inspired you to write I Don’t Think So!, and how did you create your character Mia?

 

A: Shyness was a significant struggle for me during my childhood. I was so reserved that I could only speak to my teachers and immediate family members until I was about 7 years old.

 

This extreme shyness even affected my eating habits, as I couldn't bring myself to eat in front of anyone outside my family, leading me to skip lunch at school every day.

My journey was not a solitary one. I owe a great deal to the loving teachers and a few friends I met along the way. Their support and understanding were the key to unlocking my ability to eventually overcome my severe shyness and learn to enjoy the world around me.

Mia, the character in my story, is a reflection of my daughter's appearance and my own childhood personality. The talented illustrator, Asha Butler, referenced a picture of my daughter to create Mia. This personal connection and the inspiration drawn from my own experiences are at the heart of this story.

Q: How would you describe the dynamic between Mia and her classmate Cody?

 

A: Cody is the definition of an extrovert and is not only a great friend to Mia but helps her see the world differently by tapping into her imagination, replacing fear with curiosity and wonder. Mia’s personality is also the perfect complement to Cody’s sometimes rambunctious approach.

 

Q: What do you think Asha Butler’s illustrations add to the story?

 

A: Asha’s depiction of the characters in the story is brilliant. She truly brings Mia, Cody, Ms. Doodlebee, and the other characters to life in a fun and whimsical manner.

 

I must also recognize Monica Violet Joy, the acclaimed children's media and entertainment veteran who edited the book and directed the artwork. She is responsible for the beautiful settings in the story, including the colorful, clever, and detailed indoor and outdoor scenes.

 

Q: What do you hope kids take away from the book?

 

A: I want kids to understand the impact that a caring friend who sees the world differently can have on their lives and to become curious about trying new things, even when it might feel a little scary at first.

 

Q: What are you working on now?

 

A: This book will be part of a series titled The Doodlebees, featuring stories of a few of Mia’s classmates in Ms. Doodlebee’s kindergarten class. The purpose of the series is to help young children develop confidence and positive social skills.

 

I completed the second book in the series, featuring Cody, who can often be a bit overly confident. Illustrations are the next step. I plan to work on the next two books in the series this year as well.

 

I have also completed two young adult novels and adapted one to a screenplay. I am currently pursuing representation for these.

 

Q: Anything else we should know?

 

A: Before releasing this book, I felt strongly that it would be important to have an expert in the field of child therapy review the book and provide feedback. As a result, the book has been objectively reviewed and endorsed by a licensed child therapist whom I met through a mutual friend. 

 

--Interview with Deborah Kalb. This interview was conducted in cooperation with K. Joyner. Enter this giveaway for a chance to win one of five signed hardcover copies of I Don't Think So!. One lucky grand prize winner will receive a signed copy and a $50 Barnes & Noble gift card.