Welcome to SCBWI-MI's Book Birthday Blog!

Where we celebrate new books from Michigan's authors, illustrators and translators.

Congratulations to Kinyel Friday on the release of Not My Lisa

How did you come up with the idea for your book?

My newsletter audience helped me come up with the concept. In a newsletter last year, I sent out a poll with a few topics and asked what subject they would like me to cover; transition won. I wrote two stories and kept the one I thought would be most relatable. Just like my other stories, there’s some truth to it, which made it easier to write about.

What is something you hope your readers will take away from your book?

I hope readers take away some problem-solving skills. When you run into a problem, express your feelings, but also make a plan to address it, if necessary.

What was the most difficult part of writing this book?

One of the most difficult parts was figuring out what kind of transition to write about. What would be appealing, relatable, entertaining, and interesting? I’m hoping I lived up to my audience’s standards!

What are your marketing plans for the book?

Share my book as much as possible through social media, ads, events, and my newsletter.

What's next for you?

Sitting still and finishing my novel!

A little bit about the book . . .

Tanya’s best friend, Lisa, stuns her with news of her moving. Tanya becomes so overwhelmed by her feelings, she questions why her favorite people move away from her. What happens to their friendship once Lisa leaves? Will they ever see each other again? Does Tanya recover from this major life transition? This is a story about friendship, self-doubt, coping, and problem-solving.

A little bit about the author . . .

Kinyel Friday is the author of fiction books for children and adults, including I Am My Hair, Troubled Minds, and new release, I Feel You. She aspires to be someone’s favorite author and empower children to love themselves while they’re young. Kinyel loves to write compelling stories, shop, and watch movies. She braves the unforgiving winters in Michigan with her family. Stay up to date by visiting https://kinyelfriday.com/ and subscribe to her monthly newsletter.

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