The Wonder of Watching Something Come to Life

The first time I handed someone a copy of my book, time seemed to stop. I held my breath while they read it. Putting something so deeply felt onto paper and sharing it publicly is a scary thing to do. I still feel that way when I know someone is reading my book for the first time.

There is something surreal about having characters I created in my mind become real to someone else. But what has made it all worthwhile is the wide eyes, gasps, and giggles that come from the little ones. When I set out to publish The Little Seed's Long Wait, I couldn't have imagined the joy and fulfillment there is in watching children react to the story.

Little Seed and his friends have made their way into homes, libraries, schools in multiple countries, and loving laps around the globe. I think what I love best is how families, parents, librarians, teachers, grandparents, and adults in general have reacted to the story's relatable theme.

Children imagine the story coming to life. Adults often realize they’ve been living it.

It's thrilling to know there are many more schools, libraries, homes, and bookstores to explore. For now, though, I still hold my breath when someone new is reading my book for the first time.

Then, I remember the squeals of laughter and wide-eyed curiosity of the hundreds of children I’ve met along the way, and I smile.

— Mari