Marlee Kostiner, the author of the children's book "NaMOOste," joins us to discuss her unexpected journey into children's literature. The central theme of our conversation revolves around the importance of social-emotional learning for children, which is intricately woven into her book through engaging animal characters and yoga poses. Marlee shares the personal inspiration behind her work, highlighting how her experiences as a mother and her passion for writing culminated in this creative endeavor. We delve into the challenges she faced in the publishing process, particularly her decision to maintain creative control by self-publishing instead of pursuing traditional routes. As we explore the significance of her book, we also address the resources she provides for parents and educators to facilitate meaningful discussions with children about their emotions and well-being. Marlee, a writer by profession, recounts her unexpected journey into the realm of children's literature with her book titled 'NaMOOste'. Initially, Marlee had not envisioned herself as a children's book author, despite her extensive background in journalism and editing. The inspiration struck her during a candid moment with her young son, who at the time was struggling with the transitions between play and rest. Observing him engage in spontaneous yoga poses prompted Marlee to consider the potential of utilizing yoga as a tool for managing emotions and transitions in children's lives. This realization ultimately led her to write her book, which intertwines the whimsicality of children's storytelling with the foundational elements of social-emotional learning. Marlee reflects on the significance of this journey, emphasizing that being a children's book author entails not only the act of writing but also the personal growth and belief in oneself that accompanies such a creative endeavor. The conversation delves deeply into the creative process Marlee underwent while writing 'NaMOOste'. She describes the initial draft's rapid emergence, followed by a period of reflection and eventual revival of her idea during the COVID-19 pandemic. This period of introspection and societal upheaval served as a catalyst for Marley, compelling her to confront her imposter syndrome and embrace her potential as a published author. The episode highlights her determination to maintain creative control over her work, a sentiment reinforced by her experiences in traditional publishing, where her vision for her book was often at odds with the expectations of publishers. Through this narrative, Marlee encourages aspiring authors to find their unique voice and empower themselves in their creative journeys. As Marlee shares her insights into the business aspect of being a children's book author, she elaborates on her decision to establish her own publishing house. This transition arose organically from her interactions with fellow aspiring authors who sought her guidance in navigating the complexities of publishing. Marlee emphasizes the importance of community and the fulfillment derived from helping others realize their creative aspirations. She articulates her vision for success, not in terms of sales figures, but rather in fostering an environment where authors feel supported and encouraged to express their authentic selves through their work. The episode concludes with practical advice for budding authors, urging them to educate themselves about the publishing landscape and evaluate their resources realistically, ultimately framing their creative endeavors as fulfilling and achievable. Takeaways: Marlee Kostiner, the author of 'NaMOOste', was inspired by her son's struggles with transitions during bedtime, which led her to create a children's book that addresses social emotional skills.The journey of becoming a children's book author was unexpected for Marlee, who initially spent her career as a journalist and editor, unaware of her potential in children's literature.During the pandemic, Marlee experienced a shift in mindset that prompted her to pursue her passion for writing children's books, illustrating the impact of life changes on personal aspirations.Marlee emphasizes the importance of taking creative ownership of one's work, particularly in the context of children's literature, where personal connections to the material enhance the storytelling experience.Building a successful children's book business requires thorough planning, including marketing strategies and community engagement, which Marley navigated by documenting her book's journey on social media.Marlee's book, 'NaMOOste', serves multiple purposes, from promoting physical activity through yoga poses to facilitating discussions about emotional well-being, showcasing its multifaceted value for children. Links referenced in this episode:gardenwolfpublishing.com Companies mentioned in this episode:Babar Booksmadeinchina.com
