Interview with The Author Christine De Carvalho

  

About The Book: From fairytales to Greek epic poems, Romantic paintings to award-winning animated films, Starbucks to South Florida, mermaids are an enduring and empowering symbol. Now, former textile designer Christine De Carvalho captures the joy and charm of these aquatic denizens in MERMAID LIFE: The Joy of Making Waves (Workman Publishing; March 30, 2021; $12.95; Paper over board). Filled with whimsical illustrations and exquisite hand-lettering, MERMAID LIFE features mermaids of diverse shapes, sizes, skin tones, and gender presentation to capture the sense of magic that makes mermaids so appealing while celebrating the freedom, empowerment, and self-confidence that merfolk represent.

<image003.png>I am writing to invite you to join the blog tour for this unique and inclusive book that will inspire readers to embrace their inner mermaid, let their worries drift away, and “seas the day.” Mermaid Life brims with quotes, folklore, mermaid mantras, and ocean-inspired “fin facts,” and includes a sheet of full-color stickers, making it a charming, inspirational gift for every free-spirited friend and aspiring mermaid!

1. What motivated you to write your book, to force you from taking an idea or experience and turning it into a book?

I've always wanted to write and illustrate a book, so when I was approached by Workman to collaborate on a book about Mermaids, I was thrilled. I have always been fascinated by Folklore. Mermaids were always so enchanting to me as a child. When I wrote the manuscript for this book, I basically envisioned everything I would have wanted to see in a book when I was younger. I wanted it to be uplifting, inspirational, and full of beautiful images. It was also very important to me to break the mold of what people often think a Mermaid is. The archetypal mermaid throughout history has fair skin, blonde or red hair and is often depicted as waifish. I didn't want to represent Mermaids in this way, my Mermaids are strong, empowered and come in all shapes and colors.

I knew I wanted this book to be all inclusive and really break some of those stereotypes.

2. What is it about and who is it for?

The book is filled with fun facts about the ocean, inspirational quotes, and Mermaidology. There isn't a main character or a narrative story. It's a book that contains uplifting messages and the joys of these amazing folkloric creatures.

This book can really be for anyone because whether or not you are a mermaid enthusiast, this book has tons of illustrations that draw you in and positive messages to make the reader smile. 

3. What do you hope the reader will be left with after reading it?

Inspired. I hope that the reader dives into the world of mermaids and feel inspired to go on an adventure, practice self-care, and be kind to others. This book is a celebration of all those things. 

4. What advice or words of wisdom do you have for fellow writers?

When writing or illustrating a book, you have to be organized and meet deadlines. It's not always easy but if you have systems in place before you begin it will make the entire process go so much smoother. And of course, always be true to what inspires you! 

5. What trends in the book world do you see -- and where do you think the book publishing industry is heading?

I have been noticing a trend in social justice and a call for diversity and representation in books. I love that and feel it is so important to see this shift happen. It's an important step towards changing the world. I've also noticed that many taboo subject matters are becoming more popular and "weird" art is more celebrated.

I think we will be seeing more books that celebrate the strange and unusual and I am here for it! 

6. What challenges did you overcome to write this book?

Since this was my first book, I think I experienced just the usual growing pains of working on such a big project that was new to me. Writing and illustrating a book is unlike anything I have ever done before, it was so labor intensive but so rewarding.

I think the biggest challenge was staying on top of my deadlines once we learned we were in lockdown and living in a pandemic. It was surreal to be working on such a happy book during Covid. But it helped push me through some of those uncertain emotions I was feeling.  

7. If people can buy or read one book this week or month, why should it be yours?

People should buy and read my book because it's a quick read that is intended to lift your spirits. Not only that but there is so much to look at in regards to the illustrations, which never gets old!

Contact Brian For Marketing Help!!

Brian Feinblum, the founder of this award-winning blog, can be reached at brianfeinblum@gmail.com He is available to help authors promote their story, sell their book, and grow their brand.

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About Brian Feinblum

Brian Feinblum should be followed on Twitter @theprexpert. This is copyrighted by BookMarketingBuzzBlog ©2021. Born and raised in Brooklyn, he now resides in Westchester with his wife, two kids, and Ferris, a black lab rescue dog. His writings are often featured in The Writer and IBPA’s The Independent.  This was named one of the best book marketing blogs by BookBaby  http://blog.bookbaby.com/2013/09/the-best-book-marketing-blogs and recognized by Feedspot in 2018 as one of the top book marketing blogs. It was also named by WinningWriters.com as a "best resource.” He recently hosted a panel on book publicity for Book Expo America. For more information, please consult: linkedin.com/in/brianfeinblum.