Author Spotlight: Lori Taetz
We are pleased to introduce Lori Taetz. Lori recently published What Did the Angels Say? which is available through the Word Alive Press Bookstore, and everywhere fine Christian books are sold. We asked Lori to share a little bit about her writing and new book. But first, a little bit about her.
About
Lori Taetz grew up as the daughter of Salvation Army officers, moving from town to town throughout childhood. She has always loved stories and books. Visiting the library continues to be a favorite activity, filled with wonder and information. Ever since she was a child, Lori always wanted to be a writer. Long drives through the vast Montana landscapes with her family gave ample time to write stories and poems as her imagination filled her with ideas to share. With support from Rocky, her husband of thirty-five years, Lori home schooled their four kids through junior high, giving them a unique opportunity to spend the days reading and developing a love of words. Currently, Lori teaches grade four at a Christian School in British Columbia.
She has recently begun fulfilling her dream of becoming a writer, and What Did the Angels Say? is her fourth children’s book.
Q&A
Q: Why did you choose to write a children’s book?
A: I have always loved reading books to kids. At bedtime when my kids were little, I was the one who would say, "Can we just read one more?" Even as a little girl, I always had a book in my hands. Once I started teaching, I started planning lessons around books, making weekly trips to the public library to find material. Quite often, however, I noticed that it was difficult to find stories that met the criteria I was looking for. Writing my own stories seemed like a good solution.
Q: What made you choose this particular story to write about?
A: Christmas is one of my favorite times of the year, and I especially love reading Christmas books. I have discovered that there are a lot of stories about Santa and other holiday traditions. Finding a well-illustrated and accurate account of the birth of Jesus that kids will choose on their own is often a difficult task. I wanted to create a book that any child would want to include in their collection.
Q: What is your book about?
A: What Did the Angels Say? is the story of the different characters involved in the biblical account of the birth of Jesus. During the Christmas season each year, I have often had my students choose a character and write the story from the character’s perspective. This book is a rendition of what each member of the Christmas story might say. It is written with a rhyming scheme that keeps children interested while teaching them. The adorable illustrations add to the overall appeal.
Q: What other books have you written?
A: My first book, Grandma and the Internet is about having trouble getting Grandma’s Smart TV to work. Eventually they realize watching TV isn’t as important than they thought. Grandpa Tell Me a Story: The Thankful One is about Grandpa noticing his grandson forgetting to say “thank you” as people helped him with his problems. It’s also available in Spanish, Abuelo, Cuentame un Cuento: El Hombre Agradicido. I’m currently working on a book with my son, called Sue’s Shoes and my memoir, True Tales of a Vintage Car Guy’s Wife.
Q: Do you have any advice for new writers?
A: If you are interested in writing a book, just start writing! Everyone has a story to tell, and yours is important. Once you start, just keep going. You can make changes later. When you feel comfortable, show your work to others and get their feedback. Be prepared to accept criticism at first, as your book can always get better. Check facts and information for accuracy, and always ask permission if you are writing about someone else. Read your story several times, making changes if you see ways to improve it. Figure out who your audience is, and read books designed for that age group or genre to familiarize yourself with different styles. Try to work on your story regularly, and set goals for yourself. Make sure to have people from that age group read your story to give feedback as well. Remember that God uses stories to teach us and to show us how much He loves us. He created us in His image, so we also have a story to tell.
Connecting Points
Find and follow Lori online and at the following events: