Interview with Debi Hammond

Author of The Blanket, a Story of Healing

Where are you from originally and where do you reside now?

I was born and raised, for the most part, in northern California. I now happily live in northern Texas.

If you currently reside somewhere besides where you were born, what’s the story that lead from there to here?

Our kids were on their own, we wanted to explore different opportunities, we wanted to be closer to our happy family in Texas and we were in search of community. My husband and I had talked about moving for years and we thought, “If not now, when?” We packed up what we wanted, sold what we didn’t, said our Good-bye’s and See-ya-Later’s and drove almost 2,000 miles. Texas felt like home as soon as we crossed the border.

What made you decide to write and publish your first book?

I stepped back to restructure my business, Creating Happy. I wanted to be smarter about my creative business, and out of all of my projects, my book, The Blanket became my catalyst.

How would you describe your books to first time readers?

My intention, with every book I write is to make a positive difference. I wrote and illustrated, The Blanket, a Story of Healing to empower children. In this story, children from around the world are all having the same kind of dreams and are given a gift that they can use and share forever. Readers are guided through colorful imagery while learning that, although they may be little they can make a big and positive difference.

Who do you feel is most likely to connect with the topics you write about?

People who are becoming more aware of the positive power that we all have within us and would like to embrace and use their power to create positivity.

What unexpected or surprising thing did you learn during the process of writing and publishing?

I was surprised by the amount of time it took to complete my manuscript and illustrations. I had written The Blanket years before and I just thought a quick reformatting would get me on my way to done. I took the time to make sure my story was just right. When I completed the illustrations, I could have easily taken them back to the drawing board. But my desire to complete my book and get it into little hands was much bigger than letting my perfectionist take over. It was important to get the message out and to be happy with what I created.

If you could, what advice would you give to past self yourself before embarking on this journey?

I am all about living, learning and appreciating. I don’t think I would have done anything differently. It all turned out just right and I can’t wait for the next time!

How many people would you ideally like to reach with your books?

Well, there are almost 8 billion people on the planet, so if The Blanket, reaches 3,000,000 children in ten languages that would be awesome!

What has been the biggest challenge and frustration during the process to date?

The poor communication and lack of communication from my publisher’s team was the most challenging part of the whole process.

What’s your biggest strengths when it comes to book a) writing, b) publishing and c) marketing?

Writing is my biggest strength. I would like to create and leave the business of publishing and marketing to someone else.

What’s your biggest weakness when it comes to book a) writing, b) publishing and c) marketing?

I started out strong with my marketing plan but my efforts have fizzled. If I had a team, I would ask them to clean me up, get me more organized, create a marketing plan and book readings and signings for me.

When do you think you will you write your next book?

I am working on my next book right now! I actually have two in the hopper, that will come out around the same time. 🙂

Are you self published or did you use a hybrid publisher, or a traditional publisher?

I had self-published and distributed a couple of books in the past- The Tickle Monster, and Live Simply Where You Are. I used a hybrid publisher for The Blanket, and I plan to knock on traditional publisher’s doors for my next projects.