Welcome to SCBWI-MI's Book Birthday Blog!

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

Congratulations to Shona Darin on the release of If I Lived. . .On A Farm!

What was the inspiration for your book?

Without sounding cliche, my inspiration to write books came from my sons. Covid no doubt wreaked havoc on all of our lives, but amongst the chaos of being home with my sons, I reignited my love for creative writing during this time. My sons have an unwavering love and curiosity for all animals. Our favorite adventure is always to visit the many wonderful farms that surround us in Metro Detroit. From one of our first visits the conversation of imagining what it would be like to live on a farm started. As we further discussed each of our favorite farm animals, and the traits they possessed, we realized the unique purpose that they each bear. Thus, the idea of If I Lived…On A Farm! was born.

What was the most difficult part of writing the book?

The most difficult part of producing a book was the notion of self-doubt. Will anyone like my story? Will I stand out in an over-saturated market? What makes this book special? Since I am not a writer by trade, but more so a writer by hobby, I had to dig deep to believe in myself and the story I was writing. I took a leap of faith, in an industry that I had much to still learn about and have never looked back. I decided that if I only ever sold one copy, then at the very least, I would have this example of passion and self-efficacy to pass down to my children.

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

My book is lighthearted and has a subtle message to our young readers that encourages self-acceptance of both their physical and personality traits. My hope is that all children can see the beauty and uniqueness that they all possess. We often strive to look or be like someone else, without realizing how special we are in our own skin. I sign each of my books with “Always stay true to being you.”

What are your marketing plans for the book and where can we find it?

My book can be purchased on my personal website, Instagram/Facebook shop page and larger online stores including Amazon, Target, Walmart and Barnes and Noble. I will be collaborating with local kid friendly farms this fall and spring throughout Michigan for story times and themed festivities.

What's next for you?

This is my second book, of what I hope to be many more! My plan is to continue to self-publish short rhyming books that promote positivity and self-acceptance in a kid- digestible format. I will continue to visit as many local schools as possible to tell my story and inspire young readers through literature.

More about the book . . .

A horse? A cow?
A pig that lives care-free?
If you could live on a farm for one day,
Which animal would you be?

Discover through rhyme popular farm animals and the traits that make them unique.
Similar to humankind, we learn that it is the distinct talents of each animal that all lend to a thriving and happy community farm.

Publisher: Library on Linwood

More about the author . . .

"Library on Linwood" was completely fueled by my admiration for both of my son's imagination and love for reading. They had an intrigue to learn more about animals that was unstoppable. As a stay-at-home mum, I spent hours educating, learning, understanding and enjoying their newfound love of both animals and literature. Before I knew it, I started writing short rhyming stories about animals as my own creative outlet. This hobby soon snowballed into a passion project which I am now so excited to share with the world. With roots in Manchester, England combined with our local Michigan community, I look forward to reaching all young readers globally.

Website

Instagram @libraryonlinwood

Facebook @libraryonlinwood