Monday, July 27, 2020

Maddy the Firefly: that couldn't fly



Today I am introducing you to Freddie Bell, author of "Maddy the Firefly: that couldn't fly." The story is very cute and encouraging to empower children. It is also beautifully illustrated. Take a look and meet the author in the author interview below.

Maddy the Firefly: that couldn't fly Kindle Edition
by Freddie Bell (Author), Liz Marcucci (Narrator)  Format: Kindle Edition


The body is only a vessel that carries us through time, but it is our light that guides our way. Maddy, The Firefly that Couldn’t Fly was created to empower our youth. I hope Maddy reminds our young people that what they have inside their hearts is more than enough: They are more than enough.

The world tried to take my light, and for a time, it succeeded. As a thirty-year-old adult, I remembered how to play, and I rediscovered the fire I had within. My dream is that our youth with physical disabilities don’t lose their light like I did.


It is my hope that the brightness inside every child glows freely without fear or hesitation. No matter their body, their identity, or their orientation I dream that all children can find compassion and love for every part of themselves and learn to celebrate their individuality.

Stand in your light, proudly child, for you have the power to illuminate your own path.


BEAUTIFULLY ILLUSTRATED!!






Elizabeth Marcucci
founder&creator of Who Dis?
www.whodisshow.com

Tell your readers a little about yourself, where you grew up, where you live now, where you went to school etc. Let them get to know the personal you.

I grew up in Ohio, Toledo to be exact. I currently live in Chicago (one of my favorite cities!) I attended "THE" Ohio State University.

What inspired you to author this book?

My inspiration came from a new friend I met during the pandemic. She told me that because she was disabled, she'd been bullied all her life. This turned into great periods of sadness in her adult life. She has such a beautiful and fun-loving personality; I decided to write a book hoping to inspire kids that experienced/currently experiencing the same bullying my friend did as a child.

Where did you get the inspiration for your book's cover?

Just working with a great artist, came up with the cover.

Who has been the most significant influence on you personally and as a writer?

This is a hard question to answer! I have had many mentors in my life, starting with my Grandfather, my father, numerous uncles, and pastors. So personally, I would say the biggest influence on me is Jesus Christ. Then I would say that currently, I have been reflecting on things my father told me growing up. (my father passed away in 2016). As a writer, hands down, without question, it would be my mother. She nurtured the creative side in me from day one! It runs in the family; my 91 yr old grandmother just recently published her first book!

What were your struggles or obstacles you had to overcome to get this book written?

It was my first children's book. The typical jitters that come with starting something new.

Tell your readers about your book.

It's a book that should inspire you to look within to find the light inside of you. Once you find it, share it with the world!




Who is your target audience, and why?

Everyone! It's a children's book, but the message resonates with people of all ages.



What do you consider your greatest success in life?

Starting a charitable organization in my father's honor. We are currently providing meals on a weekly bases to hospital workers and first responders during this pandemic. *for more info: agiftfromglenn.org

What one unique thing sets you apart from other writers in your genre?

The ability to rhyme! lol