Katey Howes is delighted to write books for children. She is the author of the picture books Magnolia Mudd and the Super Jumptastic Launcher Deluxe, Grandmother Thorn, and Be a Maker. Katey resides in Upper Makefield, Pennsylvania, with her husband and their three adventurous daughters.
Books have always been my connection to people, places, abstract concepts, and emotions such as hope, fear, and faith. I cherish, depend on, and escape into books. Playing with words has always been a passion of mine. Although I didn’t initially plan to become a published author, some of the words I was crafting insisted on being shared. Seeing how the books I create can offer children those connections, escapes, and a love of words—there’s nothing else I’d rather do.
I recommend not only reading widely but also reading with children and discussing the books with them. Avoid putting your ideas in their heads or your words in their mouths. Just genuinely listen to what they see, hear, feel, and think when you share different books. This approach will help you discover your purpose and style and better understand your audience.