Featured Interview With Jaclyn Kruzie
Tell us a little about yourself. Where were you raised? Where do you live now?
I married my high school sweetheart and we have five beautiful and talented children. I studied health education in college and use my education and motherhood experiences to create fun stories for children that encourage the development of healthy habits for a lifetime. I currently reside in a small Texas town were my family enjoys many outdoor activities such as hiking, biking, camping, boating, and taking care of our longhorns.
At what age did you realize your fascination with books? When did you start writing?
As an elementary student in Texas I participated in my school’s annual Young Authors Conference. Students were encouraged to write and illustrate a book to share with classmates. I looked forward to this day all year! It was always the last day of school and was accompanied with carnival type games and funny skits performed by teachers. I still have all the books I wrote. Thanks to this memorable activity I developed a love of books, both reading and writing them, and made a goal to someday be a published author.
Who are your favorite authors to read? What is your favorite genre to read. Who Inspires you in your writings?
As a children’s author I must pay homage to Dr. Seuss. I mean, what would childhood even be like without this storytelling genius and his master rhymes? E.B. White. “Charlotte’s Web” was the first chapter book I read on my own and is still my favorite book. I made a point to read it with each of my kids. During my middle school years R.L. Stine kept my imagination alive. As an adult I enjoy a variety of authors and genres; though mystery and historical fiction are my favorites. “The Unexpected Guest” by Agatha Christie is hands down the best mystery tale every written.
Tell us a little about your latest book?
My latest book “Why Can’t Every Day Be Halloween?” is children’s picture book depicting a young boy who wishes is favorite holiday would never end. When his wish comes true he finds himself in a world of never ending fun and mountains of candy. He soon realizes that Halloween has more than just treats. It also has tricks, and they aren’t nearly as fun.
The idea for this book was inspired by children. Nightly routines at my house usually go something like this:
me – “Go brush your teeth.”
child (either of them take your pick) – “Why?”
me – “Because you need to keep your teeth healthy.”
child – “Why?”
me – “Because you don’t want cavities.”
child – “Why?”
You get the idea. The same conversation follows for taking a shower, going to bed on time, eating fruits and vegetables…the list goes on.
I figured I wasn’t the only mom with this problem and decided I could get my point across in a more fun and memorable way if I could show what really would happen if they neglected to care for themselves. My son’s obsession with zombies also played a part.
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