Feb 19 2025 26 mins
Tom Tracy shares how his journey as a self-published children's book author has been driven by a desire for representation and authenticity in children's literature. He emphasizes the importance of community and emotional connectivity in storytelling, along with practical marketing strategies for independent authors.
• Importance of representation in children's books
• The impact of personal connection on storytelling
• Strategies for marketing as a self-published author
• Incorporating emotional development techniques in writing
• The power of community in supporting indie authors
Tom was born and raised in Southern New Jersey. Growing up in rural America, Tom has a deep sense of community - when our families, neighbors, farmers, local businesses, and organizations all work in concert to support one another, it strengthens us individually and collectively. Tom relishes opportunities to develop meaningful relationships with his local community.
He and his husband have been together for nearly 15 years and married for 10. They have two young daughters who help their dads stay in touch with all things 21st century.
As a gay dad and a father of BIPOC daughters, Tom is committed to advancing children’s stories that are inclusive of diverse families, who have been historically under-represented in children's books. Professionally, Tom is a NJ Licensed Clinical Social Worker and has worked with at-risk youth and individuals living with mental illness for most of his career. Through that work, he has come to appreciate the importance of sharing one's lived experience with others through story-telling. He hopes his kids’ books help others feel more seen and valued.
Wonderfully You: An Ode to Adoption Book Blurb:
Wonderfully You is a love note to children who've been adopted in this heartfelt story that showcases family creation through the experience of transracial adoption. The reader is invited to experience the adoption journey through melodic rhyming narrative, which is complemented by beautiful, hand-drawn illustrations. Personal connection to adoption isn't necessary to feel the warmth and love that is the central message of this book. It is a perfect read along for kids, grandkids, classrooms, those touched by adoption, and individuals looking for books that portray diverse families.
Links:
Tom Tracy Books Homepage: https://www.tomtracybooks.com
All my social links: https://micro.page/tomtracybooks
About Victoria:
Hey there, I’m Victoria! As a writer and developmental editor, I specialize in helping busy writers bring their publishing dreams to life without the overwhelm. Editing doesn’t have to feel like pulling teeth—it's the magic that transforms your story from “meh” to masterpiece!
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