Kathy Fowkes has retired from a very busy career as teacher and principal in the Quesnel school district, raised four children and now enjoys her many grandchildren.
However, she has reserved time in her now busy retirement to fulfill a life-long dream – writing children’s books.
Her inspiration for her first book, A Muddy Adventure, was born from a very special afternoon spent with her then three-year-old grandson.
It was typical of time spent with a curious little boy who loved big machines and mud puddles, she says.
“The simplest of experiences are sometimes the very best. The fun in life through the eyes of a child is always a treasure.”
Kathy says she sat down and wrote the story in a day, but then had no idea what the next step would be. She researched illustrators online (she knew the illustrations would bring the story to life). Then she realized a very dear, close family friend, Tiffany Jorgensen, was an artist, so she approached her.
“She was thrilled to do it.”
Now, she had the story, the artwork but no idea how to bring the project to completion.
“Again, I researched online but found many of the options either took the projects out of my hands, which was something I wasn’t prepared to do, or it was way too expensive.”
Again a local solution was found. She approached Big Country Printers and they took her text and artwork and created A Muddy Adventure.
Kathy took a good long look at everything about her first children’s book and realized what was important.
Not only was it the fulfillment of a dream, but it also preserved precious memories and provided a written record for generations to come.
For so many personal reasons, her books are important to Kathy and her family and illustrator Tiffany and her family, and for those who chose to purchase the books for their own children and grandchildren.
“It’s certainly not about the money,” Kathy says with a laugh.
Kathy’s second book, The Best Day Ever, is also one of her fondest memories, but from her own childhood and a very special day spent with her grandmother.
“Again its a simple story of baking cookies with my grandmother, but that simple pleasure and my memory of how it brightened up an otherwise bad day for me is why the experience has stuck with me.”
Kathy launches both books March 3, 11 a.m to 2 p.m. at the Bouchie Lake Country Store, with a book signing and fun activities for the whole family.
She will be on hand with both books available, along with Tiffany and her family.
There will be balloons, coffee, hot chocolate and door prizes, as well as cookie decorating for the children.
Parents are encouraged to pick up a colouring sheet for their children (12 years and under) at the Bouchie Lake Store, bring it with them on March 3 for a chance to win one of three baskets.
For those unable to attend, but would like to purchase a book or two, contact Kathy at 250-992-5879 or -mail kathrynfowkes@gmail.com.