Today, we’re talking to our first children’s author, Amanda Holden. She’s driven, talented, and lives in the great state of Texas. Enjoy getting to know a bit more about Mrs. Holden.
You’re the author of AZYEA’S GIFTS. Tell us what made you write this book and a little bit about being a children’s book author.
I have always wanted to become a children’s book author since I was in school. I wrote a story and sent off many submissions to publishers, and when that did not pan out the way I wanted, I decided to self publish on create space. Really, the main goal was to finish what I started…to accomplish a dream I hoped would turn into a career. That meant I had to get off my hind end and start working…and I did.
When I wrote Azyea’s Gifts, Mother’s Day was approaching and I decided to write a Mother’s Day themed children’s book. I had no illustrator, so I did it all myself and it took a few days finish. The day I received my first copy in the mail, I was so happy. It was a big moment for me. But then I thought, I could do more! I could do better than this and write better than this!
As a children’s book author, I have learned so much about the process of writing a children’s book as well as the process of publishing. I found that the more knowledge I obtained in this sort of business, the more I knew that I can accomplish anything I set my mind to.
You’ve been presented with the opportunity to be a best-selling author but can never write again or write forever but never have a bestseller. Which scenario sounds more tempting?
To be honest, I think becoming a best-selling author, because then I am free to work on more important things in the world.
If you could live on a college campus and never leave or in a small town but be able to travel, which one would you choose?
Live in a small town and travel. I hate being stuck in one place. I like to explore and I am always willing to move some where else.
Okay, how about in a zoo or in a museum?
I would live in a museum, I am sure there are many more things in a museum to learn from than there is in a zoo. Besides, I do not care much for animals…not that I am an animal hater. I just prefer that animals live away from me.
And what about France or Sweeden?
I guess Sweden. Don’t the French dislike Americans? I am not about to put up with that.
Who is your favorite 90’s band (I’m thinking Counting Crows, Blink 182, Hootie & the Blowfish)?
Honestly, I am not sure.
Is there any good band out there today that we’ll talk about in 50 years?
Josh Ritter
And what about your favorite comedy on TV (My favorite is The Office)?
As much as I love The Office, I will have to say New Girl.
Is there anything you’re currently working on?
I have two. I have a new book currently being published through Tiger Dynasty Publishing. So if you stumble upon the book on facebook, please like and share. It is called Captain Sam Sails Across the Sky. The other book I am working on is called the Prodigal Princess, which is also on facebook. The illustrations are currently underway by a very talented artist.
Who is your favorite author and if you could ask him/her one question, what would it be?
C.S. Lewis. I would ask, “What inspired you to write the Chronicles of Narnia?”
Lightning round:
Ocean or mountains? Ocean
Peaches or plums? Peaches
Snickers or Butterfinger? Snickers
The Daily Show or The Colbert Report? The Colbert Report
Happy or sad ending to a novel? Happy Ending
Beer or wine? I hate alcohol
Flying or driving? Flying
Hemingway or Thoreau? Thoreau
You’re stranded on a desert island and you can take two things with you as well as two people. What and who are you bringing?
Knife and lighter, Husband and Dad.
You can wish for one thing and one thing only, not world peace and no more wishes. What’s it gonna be? 🙂
I would wish that everyone would live for Jesus. Is that too close to world peace? Too religious?
Amanda R. Holden (Punzalan) (1989) was born on the island of Guam to Frank Punzalan and Mary Lujan and is the youngest of six. She now resides in Columbus, Texas with her husband, Ethan Holden.
Amanda started writing at a young age and is now the author and illustrator of her first children’s picture book, Azyea’s Gifts.
She currently works a full time job as a dental receptionist and helps out from time to time at her local church. In her spare time, she also provides guitar lessons for children and adults while she continues to work at her craft as a writer.
She is quite dedicated to reaching goals that seem far beyond her reach and is always willing to help other authors in need of support and advise regarding their projects.
Amanda is also musically inclined and loves to sing and play guitar. Karaoke won’t get her too far, but she hopes to use her music abilities for something big.
“Follow your dreams, because your dreams won’t follow you…” -Amanda Holden
Connect with Amanda below:
Jackson Paul Baer 