Meet Debi Novotny | Children’s Book Author | Literacy Advocate

We had the good fortune of connecting with Debi Novotny and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Debi, can you walk us through the thought-process of starting your business?
Becoming a full-time small business owner of writing and publishing children’s picture books was an opportunity I pursued after retiring from teaching. I didn’t know anything about publishing books when I started out, and now have six (soon to be eight) self-published and traditionally published picture books.

My passion for telling stories began when I was an elementary school teacher. Since retiring, I’ve launched into a full-time writing career, learning everything I can about the craft of writing, the world of publishing, and how to run a business.

When I started attending in-person author meet ups, and then joining an amazing critique group – I decided to submit my stories to publishing houses. After many rejections, I was elated to receive four book deals. I’m hooked on writing, and really enjoy seeing kids read my books!

Alright, so let’s move onto what keeps you busy professionally?

I wear so many hats as a writer! My top priorities each week are to take writing classes, attend author meet ups, revise and edit my manuscripts, send queries, and participate in my critique group. Several times a month, I read my books and present educational programs for children at schools, libraries, museums, and preschools. During the school year, I teach phonics online using two of my books, and once a month I teach online watercolor painting classes using picture books as a springboard for art lessons. Like most small business owners, I also create social media posts, am my own bookkeeper, and take continuing education classes to keep up with the current trends in schools.

Adjusting to a new career has had its ups and downs – but my background as an educator has opened many doors for me. I really enjoy creating fun, educational activities to go along with each of my books. I learned early on that the only way I would not succeed as an author is if I gave up. You have to do the hard work to get where you want to go. Each manuscript goes through multiple readers,
editors, art directors, and educators before being deemed marketable and worthy of the paper it’s printed on. It can take up to four months, or longer, before a deal comes through. Then another eighteen to twenty-four months before it becomes a published book. Every book birthday validates months and months of hard work, editing, revising, and publishing.

Any places to eat or things to do that you can share with our readers? If they have a friend visiting town, what are some spots they could take them to?
If you have a friend in town, bring them to my beautiful home town of Fountain Hills to see the famous fountain! There is a huge park surrounding the lake, a very popular frisbee golf course, and a wonderful splash pad and playground for the kids. Be on the lookout for an eagle nesting in one of the trees, and the ducks are always hungry! You’re within walking distance to some delicious restaurants and shops where you can sit on the patio and enjoy a glass of wine while taking in the amazing desert scenery, wildlife, and view of Four Peaks. There are nearby hiking trails and golf courses, too. You’ll find your next great read at Atticus Books, and it’s worth stopping by Chocofin for some homemade chocolate and ice cream before you take the short drive up to Saguaro Lake. You’re all set for some lake time with your new (or used) books and chocolate, but don’t forget to bring the kayaks! You’re welcome! 🙂

The Shoutout series is all about recognizing that our success and where we are in life is at least somewhat thanks to the efforts, support, mentorship, love and encouragement of others. So is there someone that you want to dedicate your shoutout to?
I have been surrounded by love, support, and encouragement since I began pursuing my dream of being an author. Starting with my friend, Robin, who believed in me before I even believed in myself. She sent me articles about debut children’s book authors with the caption, “this will be
you!”

My husband, daughters, family, and friends continue to be very supportive of my writing career. They were my first audience at book launches and author events—wearing magic hats, looking for heart shapes, carrying book boxes, putting up tents, and driving to Payson and Tucson for book festivals. I am so grateful!
My friends and colleagues at schools and libraries invite me to read my books to their students. This is the ultimate compliment and I appreciate them so much for giving me these opportunities!

A shoutout to my critique partners, Molly, Jayne, and Fynisa. I met these incredible ladies through SCBWI (Society of Children’s Book Writers and Illustrators) three years ago, and have been meeting with them every week since. I would not be where I am today without their writing support and friendship. We have had so much to celebrate over the years!

Website: www.debinovotny.com

Instagram: @authordebinovotny

Linkedin: Debi Novotny

Twitter: NovotnyDebi

Facebook: authordebinovotny

Image Credits
The first photo was taken by The Good Vibe Media.