Interview With Children's Book Author Alyssa Londoño of Love…is Everywhere

Link to website https://linktr.ee/alondono 

When did you become a children’s book author? 

I have been writing ever since I was a little girl. I had so many diaries and journals that I would keep track of everything that was going on in my life. I loved to write stories and share them with my friends. I wrote my first serious manuscript about 5 years ago, that is when the seed idea for “Love…is Everywhere” began.

Do you have a writing background? 

I have been a teacher for 11 years. I have my Master’s degree in English and have been writing before I can remember.

How did you come up with the story?

This story began as the love between a parent and a child. Then, my mom was diagnosed with pancreatic cancer and my story shifted. I started to look at how my mom viewed life and how she carried herself daily. She believed that love was all around us, that even the small things in life should be celebrated and cherished. My idea that shifted to this and following a little girl on her journey at finding what love is.

How did you come up with the character?

The main character for my story is based off my daughter Gabriella. As an educator I have seen all different types of literature. I wanted more diverse main characters to be out there, so that my daughter could see herself in books she was interested in.

Did you hire an illustrator or do the illustrations yourself? 

I hired an illustrator, John Konecny, who was truly able to capture my vision of what I saw for this book.

Are you self-published or published through a publishing company? 

​I am published with an independent publisher, Nico 11 Publishing and Design.

From the day you came up with the idea for the story until you were holding your published book in your hand, how long did it take you to complete this book? 

This book took about 5 years to complete.

What made you want to publish a children's book? 

My mom was my true inspiration for publishing this children’s book. I hoped to share her legacy and her outlook on life with the world. I hope to touch others and impact their life the way it has impacted me.

Any tips for future children’s book authors?

Keep trying, one no is only one no there are so many other people out there and all you need is one simple yes to get your book published.

What is something you’d like people to take away from your book? 

​I really hope people take away from my book not to take for granted the little things in life. To cherish everything around you, to live in the moment. 

​Do you read all of the book reviews you receive? 

I read all the book reviews I receive along with all the messages people send me through social media and my website.

What is your favorite children's book(s) of all time? 

​Wherever you are by Nancy Tillman, this book truly shows how love can follow you everywhere you go. It does not matter time or place.