Are You Ready for a Story?

Interview With Children’s Book Author Mary Ann Rogers

It’s always a pleasure to roll my sleeves up and get to work on Author Interview Thursday.Mother and young daughter outdoors portrait In the park. Today, we have a lady whose books are easily recognizable on the Amazon store. She currently has 12 books published and I know there are many more in the oven. I believe her success amongst other things is linked to the fact that she creates book series so her fans always have a variety of books to feast on plus she has strongly branded her books with unique titles and book covers. I also have to add that she is a very generous lady and has helped me out in my journey as a children’s book author on numerous occasions. Please join me in welcoming Mary Ann Rogers.

 

Tell us about your latest book and what formats is it available in?

I love creating children’s picture books! My latest series, “Baby Animal Names,” is for toddlers and young children and I’m currently selling them in the Amazon Kindle marketplace. The pictures look great even on the older black and white Kindle.

 

What other picture books have you written?

I have created two children’s picture book series so far. My first is an interactive series is for a slightly older crowd; 6 – 10 year, and.the second is perfect for toddlers and young children, ages 2 -6. Some of my published book titles include Farm Animals, Arctic Animals, Desert Animals, Zoo Babies and Wild Babies.

 

What can a reader expect when they pick up a Mary Ann Rogers book?

My first series examines animals that live in certain areas of the world. There is a picture of each animal, and a paragraph that provides amazing facts. At the end of the paragraph, there’s a question. The reader is given 2 – 3 answers and must guess the correct one to move on. I believe the interactive feature in these books makes them unique and interesting; as well as engages the reader to provide a fun and educational reading experience. DinoCover - MARMy second series is also interactive, in that it asks a question and the reader can guess before they go to the next page. However, it is on a much easier scale, as it is geared toward a much younger audience.

 

When did you know you wanted to be a writer?

For as long as I can remember, I loved books! I loved stories and information. As a child, I would read everything I could get my hands on. I particularly loved mysteries when I was in elementary school. In 5th grade I read about 500 mystery books throughout the school year! However, it wasn’t until after I was married and had kids that I decided that I could create books of my own. Once I started though, I knew it was what I wanted to do.

 

What’s the best thing about being a writer?

I love being a writer! I think the best thing about it is it engages my creative side. Every day, all day long I am constantly seeing and hearing things that make me stop and say, “Hey, I could make that into a book!” I love living a life where I’m having fun while working!

 

Do you believe in writer’s block and what do you do to overcome it?

I have experienced writer’s block; however, for me I know it has to do with a lack of confidence and procrastination! If that happens, I stop what I’m doing and go for a walk, play with my kids, or do something that makes me happy. When I’m happy, the creative juices start flowing again!

 

What do you like to do when you are not writing?

I’m a mom of 4. And anyone who’s a mom knows that  life beyond work is usually about your kids.Rain Forest Cover I love playing and engaging with my children! The life beyond writing that I want and enjoy is all about family!

 

Have your kids been an inspiration to your picture books?

My kids are a huge inspiration to me and greatly influence my writing. In fact, my son has read all my books and is continually giving me ideas for more!

 

What is your favorite film?

I have so many favourites! But, if I had to pick one, I’d probably say, ‘To Kill A Mockingbird’ is my favourite. There are so many lessons I learned from that movie! I remember the first time I watched it, it deeply influenced how I wanted to be in life.

 

Toy Story or Shrek?

Definitely Toy Story! It brings back great memories of playing with toys when I was little.

 

What can we expect from Mary Ann Rogers in 2013?

More books! I am currently researching materials for better interactive books.

 

Any advice for authors out there who are either just starting out or getting frustrated with the publishing industry?

Just keep on going! Don’t give up! Keep learning and writing and direct your attention to what you want in your business.Zoo Babies Cover MAR Try not to worry about all the negatives that can challenge you and keep moving forward.

 

Anything else that you’d like to add?

I’d like to say I really appreciate my fans! I want to continually write books that readers enjoy, and hearing from my fans through reviews or my fanpage inspires me to keep writing!

 

Thank you so much for that great interview Mary Ann! It’s clear to see that you’re passionate about the books you publish and only want to create books that add value and challenge the readers. I think other authors can also learn from your success with the book series you have and your conscious decision to brand your books the way you have. You can see and get Mary Ann Rogers’ books on the Amazon store by clicking the link below

http://www.amazon.com/Mary-Ann-Rogers/e/B00AWT5LA8

 

You can also connect with Mary Ann by visiting and LIKING her facebook page at the link below

https://www.facebook.com/maryannrogersbooks

 

 

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