It gives me great pleasure to welcome fellow Chindi Author, Carol Thomas, back to ‘Patricia’s Pen.’ Carol has come along to tell you about her new children’s book. Without further ado, it’s over to Carol.
Writing for Children
Carol Thomas
Thank you so much for having me on your blog Patricia.
As an experienced primary school teacher and mum of four, I know the importance of inspiring a love of books from an early age. I have read a great many children’s books and enjoy sharing them. Of course, it is not just about the story and pictures; it is about that moment of connection with those you are sharing the book with too.
Young children love books for many reasons. It can be that the subject matter connects with them; or that it fires their imagination, enabling them to venture into another world; but it can also be because of that moment they share with you as the reader. Snuggling up and sharing a story with your child is for any time, not just bedtime (though of course, that can be a very lovely way for you and them to end their day).
Growing up, my favourite book was my Ladybird version of Five Little Kittens, not because I had a big love of books, I rather liked playing with toy cars while my sister read, but because I liked cats, it rhymed and most importantly, my mum shared it with me!
In a world where many things are competing for young children’s attention, I aim to write engaging stories, that I hope will be shared again and again. The language is purposefully rhythmic and rhyming, encouraging them to join in and anticipate words and phrases. The characters small and human, or cute and furry, express emotions that are relatable to a young audience and that I hope will inspire a discussion at their level.
Aimed at under 7s, my latest book, Being a Friend at Christmas, is the story of a Little Pup who has found his forever home and knows just how lucky he has been. But as Christmas approaches he thinks about the dogs he’s left behind in the shelter and wants to make sure they have a happy time too. To make his Christmas wish come true, Little Pup has to be brave and enlist the help of Father Christmas.
It’s been described as the perfect gift for all young dog lovers, and I hope, especially after the strange year our children and we have had, it helps spread some Christmas joy!
For more of a sneak peek – click here for the book trailer.
Also by Carol Thomas
Finding a Friend (while this is the first in the Little Pup series of books each can be read as a stand-alone story).
When Little Pup finds himself at the shelter,
he doesn’t know quite what to do.
Big dogs all around, feeling lost and alone,
Little Pup needs a friend… but who?
“A delightfully written and wonderfully illustrated picture book, with a heart warming’ tail’ of friendship.”
About Carol Thomas
Carol Thomas lives on the south coast of England with her husband, four children and lively Labrador. She has been a playgroup supervisor and has taught in primary schools for just over twenty years.
Carol writes for both adults and children. Her children’s books have irresistibly cute, generally furry characters young children can relate to.
To find out more about books by Carol Thomas:
Patricia M Osborne 
Thank you for having me on your lovely blog, Patricia. Have a great week. xx
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It was a pleasure, Carol. I wish you all the luck with your lovely new book. Have a great week too.
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