How Children's Books Teach Kindess (A Powerful Storytelling Approach)

The primary focus of our discourse today is the exploration of Chris McKenna's literary work, specifically his children's book, "Captain Olivia and the Treasure of Kindness."

Captain Olivia and the Treasure of Kindness, recently won an Open Book Award.

This episode delves into the profound significance of being a children's book author, particularly as a means of fostering connections across generations.

Chris articulates his motivation for writing, which is deeply rooted in his relationship with his granddaughter, Olivia May, who serves as the inspiration for his tales.

Throughout our conversation, we examine the intricate interplay between creativity and the business of publishing, as well as the challenges faced by authors in the contemporary literary landscape.

Additionally, we highlight the thematic elements of kindness and adventure that permeate Chris's narratives, illustrating the vital lessons he seeks to impart to young readers through his engaging storytelling.

The podcast episode featuring Chris McKenna provides a deep exploration of the author's journey into the realm of children's literature, focusing predominantly on his latest work, "Captain Olivia and the Treasure of Kindness."

McKenna shares his motivation for writing, which stemmed from the birth of his granddaughter, Olivia, positing that the act of storytelling is a means to connect with her across generations.

He expresses a desire for his books to serve as lasting legacies, fostering an emotional bond that transcends time, and invites listeners to contemplate the significance of storytelling within familial relationships.

In this insightful conversation, McKenna elaborates on the creative process he undertakes when crafting his narratives, highlighting the challenges and triumphs encountered in the world of self-publishing.

He candidly discusses the practicalities of collaborating with illustrators and the importance of maintaining a clear vision for his stories.

The dialogue underscores the delicate interplay between artistic creativity and the realities of publishing, demonstrating McKenna's commitment to producing meaningful literature that resonates with young readers and their families.

Additionally, the episode examines the thematic underpinnings of kindness and empathy that are woven throughout McKenna's works, particularly in his latest title. He articulates a deliberate choice to prioritize moral lessons over materialistic pursuits, arguing that the true treasure lies in acts of kindness and compassion.

By framing the story around these values, McKenna aims to instill a sense of empathy in children, emphasizing the importance of nurturing their emotional intelligence.

This engaging episode serves as a valuable resource for aspiring authors and parents alike, offering profound insights into the artistry of children's literature and the transformative power of storytelling.

Takeaways:

1. The essence of being a children's book author lies in forming a connection with future generations, particularly grandchildren.
2. Chris McKenna's inspiration for writing children's books stems from the birth of his granddaughter and a desire to leave a legacy.
3. Water serves as a recurring theme in Chris's books, reflecting his personal connection to the sea and the calming experiences of scuba diving.
4. The character of JoJo the parrot plays a pivotal role in 'Captain Olivia and the Treasure of Kindness', bringing important plot points to light.
5. Chris emphasizes the importance of imparting valuable life lessons through storytelling, particularly the theme of kindness.
6. The journey of self-publishing has been challenging, yet rewarding for Chris, as he navigates the complexities of marketing and distribution.

Links:

• chris_mckenna_creative Instagram
• Book Award

Mentioned in this episode:

From Idea to Book

From Idea to Bookshelf