Meet Leslie Camille | Children’s Book Author and Imagination Generator

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

Hi Leslie, we’d love to hear about how you approach risk and risk-taking.
Every time I prepare to publish a book or begin writing one, I’m taking a risk. While no risk is guaranteed, you can significantly increase your odds of success through preparation and planning. Just like a smart gambler researches the horses or analyzes the cards, a calculated risk-taker assesses the situation, gathers information, and develops a strategy. This preparation boosts your confidence and increases your chances of winning the bet on yourself. Just like placing a bet, taking a risk involves putting something valuable on the line – your time, energy, resources, even your reputation. But you’re not gambling blindly; you’re investing in your own potential, your abilities, and your vision for the future. You’re essentially saying, “I believe in myself enough to take this chance.” The potential rewards of risk-taking can be life-changing. Landing that dream job, launching a successful business, or achieving a personal goal can bring immense satisfaction, growth, and fulfillment. Of course, there’s always the possibility of losing the bet, but even in those situations, you gain valuable experience and learn lessons that can propel you forward. Ultimately, taking a risk is an act of self-belief. It’s a declaration that you trust your instincts, your skills, and your resilience. Even if things don’t go exactly as planned, you’re demonstrating a willingness to learn, grow, and keep pushing towards your goals. It’s About Believing in Yourself. You wouldn’t be reading this if I didn’t take the initial risks in my life.

Let’s talk shop? Tell us more about your career, what can you share with our community?
I am a passionate children’s book author, dedicated to creating engaging and meaningful stories for young readers that focus on positive themes. My books explore themes of kindness, inclusivity, self-discovery, and family, promoting valuable lessons for children. As a skilled storyteller, I love crafting captivating narratives and creating relatable characters.
I am dedicated to making a difference and I show this through initiatives like donating books to children in need and my commitment to using my work for good.
I create books that inspire and entertain young readers and grow their imaginations.

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?
Day 1: Arrival in Sedona & Vortex Exploration

Morning: Arrive in Sedona, check into your chosen accommodation ( I would consider a cozy cabin but prefer a spa resort for ultimate relaxation).
Afternoon: Head to one of Sedona’s famous vortex sites, like Cathedral Rock. Hike the trails, soak in the energy, and meditate or journal to connect with the mystical atmosphere.
Evening: Enjoy a delicious pizza dinner at Pizzeria Bocce.

Day 2: Hiking & Crystal Shopping

Morning: Time for a scenic hike on Devil’s Bridge, making sure to bring plenty of water and snacks!
Afternoon: Explore the vibrant crystal shops in Uptown Sedona. Tlaquepaque Arts & Shopping Village is a great place to start.
Evening: Dinner at Mariposa Latin Inspired Grill, savoring delicious cuisine with panoramic views.

Day 3: Spiritual Exploration & Relaxation

Morning: Visit the Chapel of the Holy Cross, a stunning architectural marvel built into the red rocks. We would take in the breathtaking views and peaceful ambiance.
Afternoon: Spa Day including a vortex energy massage and crystal healing sessions.
Evening: Enjoy a casual dinner at the Cowboy Club Grille.

Day 4: Return to Tempe

Morning: Enjoy a leisurely breakfast in Sedona before driving back to Tempe.
Afternoon: Head to Tempe Town Lake! Rent one of the duckie paddle boats!
Evening: Since I love seafood a feast at Ah-So Sushi & Steak, this place has great upscale ambiance. (Dress up a little)

Day 5: Exploring Tempe’s Cultural Scene

Morning: Sleep in.
Afternoon: Explore Mill Avenue, Browse the shops, grab a tea, and enjoy the lively atmosphere.
Evening: Catch a live performance at the Tempe Center for the Arts, showcasing theater, music, and dance.

Day 6: Outdoor Adventure & Local Flavors

Morning: Hike Papago Park and check out the Hole-in-the-Rock, this is a fun view!
Afternoon: Break time.
Evening: An amazing dinner at Lure Fish House in Scottsdale. (One of my all-time favorites!)

Shoutout is all about shouting out others who you feel deserve additional recognition and exposure. Who would you like to shoutout?
It might surprise you to hear a writer confess to once hating writing. That was my reality. My mother, a gifted writer and artist, had a keen eye for detail. She’d mark up my early attempts with a red pen, highlighting every error. I’d cringe, but those tough critiques, ultimately shaped me into the writer I am today.

Now, when I stumble upon old pieces of my writing, I’m often amazed. Did I really write that? The words seem to flow with an ease and confidence I didn’t know I possessed back then.

My first book, “The Chicken Berry Tree,” a whimsical tale designed to nurture a child’s imagination, is a testament to my mother’s influence. I yearned for her to illustrate it, but life had other plans. Though I ended up illustrating it myself, her artistic spirit guided my hand. She remains my constant inspiration, ensuring my books are crafted with care and precision.

Of course, my Dad’s unwavering belief in me, even when I doubted myself, fueled my journey. My parents are my roots, grounding me, and my children are the leaves, reaching for the sky. They are my legacy, my inspiration, my tree of life.

Website: https://www.lesliecamille.com

Instagram: @leslie_camille_author

Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/leslie-horne-mpa-a860454

Image Credits
Photos by Leslie Camille