by Barbara Nass
First, let me start by thanking Tara for hosting me and my debut picture book, FIX AND STITCH. Tara was a gift to me. And I mean that literally. When I retired, my work team gave me consulting time with Tara as a retirement gift. I can’t think of a better way to have jump-started my journey into picture book writing.
They say “write what you know”. And for a time, I struggled with the notion of writing a STEM story about tech and especially one to inspire young girls into this field. In my previous tech career, I mentored women across my organization and the few (emphasis on few) that were in tech. I also promoted tech careers at St. Elizabeth University as well as Rutgers University. I was all in on developing a tech-related story, but ideas that were picture-book-worthy didn’t come.
Other ideas did come, though. And the one that was the springboard for FIX AND STITCH began with the question of how a porcupine gets its first hug.
That idea could have gone in many directions. But instead, wound up about Squirrel, a creative tailor, who helps solve Porcupine’s problem. But in FIX AND STITCH, Squirrel has his own need. The birds have headed south, the last of the leaves are on the ground and winter is coming. Squirrel must build his winter home before it’s too late.
Instead, he delays, again and again, continuing to help his woodland neighbors, each with their own amusing dilemma. Squirrel just can’t say “no”.
Aha! I did write what I know. Squirrel grew up in a family like mine.
And while this story offers a message of kindness and friendship, what was the message that young readers would take away? I wanted a story about empathy, not self-sacrifice. Revision was needed and an author’s note added opening the door for discussion with children. In fact, I’ve already received notes from parents letting that they’ve had these important conversations after reading the story and author’s note. One even told me that it was quite a meaningful moment with his daughter. This feedback means everything to me. So, while I hope young readers will delight in this story of a clever tailor and his ingenious designs, I also hope they walk away with this life lesson in balancing empathy with attending to one’s own needs. A lesson that quite a few adults have now told me, they wished they had learned at an early age.
I want to thank Karen Grencik and Barb McNally for wanting this story told. And to Liza Woodruff, an amazing illustrator who truly captured the spirit of the story and its characters.
Congratulations on all your success, Barbara!
Blog readers, Barbara is giving away a copy of FIX AND STITCH. Just leave one comment below to enter and a random winner will be selected at the end of the month.
The winner of the last giveaway, MILKWEED FOR MONARCHS (critique), is Ashley Bankhead. Congrats, Ashley, and expect an email from me shortly.
Barbara Nass grew up in Brooklyn, NY. married, and raised her son in New Jersey. There, the family enjoyed hiking New Jersey’s scenic park trails. A woodland habitat she used as the setting for FIX AND STITCH, her debut picture book. A tech executive, whose career roots began in early childhood education, Barbara will forever treasure those moments when her students first learned to read. Barbara now lives in Manalapan, New Jersey. Visit her at BarbaraNass.com, Instagram @barbara.nass.writer, and Twitter/X @barbara_nass.
76 comments
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September 12, 2023 at 8:09 am
kimpfenn
This is also totally relatable to my family. Congratulations on your book and the art is fabulous too!
September 12, 2023 at 8:13 am
M.R.
What a cute idea! The illustrations are warm and adorable. Congratulations!
September 22, 2023 at 11:50 pm
lphunt
Sounds like a charming book with lots of layers. Can’t wait to read it. Congratulations!
September 12, 2023 at 8:14 am
Gayle C. Krause
Sounds clever with an important message to tell. Congratulations!
September 12, 2023 at 8:14 am
Sheri Dillard
This book looks lovely! Congratulations on your debut! I’m looking forward to reading it! 🙂
September 12, 2023 at 8:16 am
creationsbymit
So relatable! This book will definitely spark meaningful discussion. And the illustrations are charming!
September 12, 2023 at 8:19 am
M.A. Cortez
This book sounds delightful. I love the idea and the story behind it. The art work is beautiful as well. Congratulations on getting it to publication.
September 12, 2023 at 8:20 am
Pat
I love the premise of this story—so lovely! Congratulations on your debut!
September 12, 2023 at 8:25 am
Teresa 何 Robeson
Such a great idea to write about empathy versus self-sacrifice! It’s a much-needed book for all ages, really.
September 12, 2023 at 8:30 am
Karen Gardner
Fix and Stitch sounds wonderfully relatable to all readers, young and old. Congratulations, Barbara! And thanks for sharing your journey,
September 12, 2023 at 8:36 am
lindakaychavezbooks
I was immediately drawn to this story and the gorgeous illustrations. Thanks for sharing your writing story!
September 12, 2023 at 8:36 am
KamillaM
This looks absolutely lovely! Thank you for your description of how you added layers of meaning to the story.
September 12, 2023 at 8:41 am
Hilary Margitich
Congratulations, Barbara! I can’t wait to read you book. It sounds adorable.
September 12, 2023 at 8:42 am
Myra Sanderman
What a vital message, softly given, that appeals to both children and adults. But isn’t that what picture books often do!
September 12, 2023 at 8:54 am
Susanna Leonard Hill
What a great book journey, Barbara! The story sounds amazing and I can’t wait to read it!
September 12, 2023 at 8:55 am
Kim A Larson
This sounds like a wonderful story! Congratulations, Barbara! I look forward to reading it.
September 12, 2023 at 8:55 am
clcoate
There’s nothing quite like a circuitous path to success! Congratulations
September 12, 2023 at 8:56 am
Hélène Sabourin
I like how your story ended up taking a completely different direction from your original idea and I have a soft spot for squirrels. Looking forward to read it.
September 12, 2023 at 9:03 am
triciacandy
Congratulations on your debut! Looking forward to reading it!
September 12, 2023 at 9:13 am
Terry
I love the illustrations and story premise. I’m sure it will be a favorite of my two year old grandson, a big fan of squirrels.
September 12, 2023 at 9:22 am
Becki Kidd
Well done! The storyline is inviting and the illustrations bring the reader in with warmth. Who can say NO to this delightful read.
September 12, 2023 at 9:30 am
Cathy Ballou Mealey
I can’t wait to discover how this clever Squirrel solves his and his neighbors’ dilemmas! Congratulations!
September 12, 2023 at 9:37 am
Kathryn LeRoy
What a clever way to handle this theme which is certainly an important concept for children and adults. The illustrations are beautiful.
September 12, 2023 at 9:37 am
Leah Marks
Congrats on your new book. What a creative way to share this message with children.
September 12, 2023 at 10:02 am
Allison Green
Sounds like a cute book!
September 12, 2023 at 10:15 am
marshaelyn
Barbara, I’ve been a fan of Carol King’s music, especially her song “Tapestry,” for soooo many years that the title of your new book caught my heart right away. Weaving the message of empathy into the advice of “self-care” is a worthy takeaway for both children and adults. I look forward to buying your book as giveaway gifts for several adorable children in my neighborhood. I’ll recommend our county library purchase a copy for their shelves, too. I congratulate you for following your instincts so this timely book can be shared by so many. Sending you inspiration and energy for your continued success….
September 12, 2023 at 10:44 am
Suzanne Lewis
Congratulations on your debut book, Barbara! Through clever story telling and beautiful illustrations, you’ve gifted an important life message about the practice of balancing other care with self care, challenging for everyone at any age.
September 12, 2023 at 10:53 am
Yehudit Sarah
Congratulations, Barbara, on this debut book! I look forward to reading it and to reading it to my grandchildren and sharing it with others. What a beautiful and important message and the illustrations look lovely too. Your own personal story about developing the idea is inspiring too. Thanks for sharing that.
September 12, 2023 at 11:25 am
Angie
Congratulations, Barbara! I LOVE the idea of this book! May daughter-in-love is a seamstress. She lives right next door and I watch the constant stream of people in and out who need clothes repaired or altered. She would love to read this book. Might be a good Christmas gift! Yay! All the best wishes with this!
September 12, 2023 at 11:27 am
Sylvia Mary Grech
Congratulations, Barbara! Looks like a lovely book. Much success to you.
September 12, 2023 at 11:32 am
triciahinely
The porcupine gets his first hug definitely got my attention. It sounds like a very fun story with an important message. Even though “we” needed this message years ago, we didn’t know it.
September 12, 2023 at 11:41 am
Leslie Santamaria
The premise and lovely artwork draw me to this story. It sounds like just my cup of tea. Congratulations!
September 12, 2023 at 12:00 pm
karamarsee8716
What a fun title and it sounds like a very sweet story. The illustrations are adorable too. I’m putting it on my to read list! Thanks for sharing about your journey through the plot – I’m sure many of us can relate to not being able to say “no”. Congratulations 🎉😊
September 12, 2023 at 12:16 pm
Della Ross Ferreri
I love hearing the story behind the story! Congratulations! I look forward to reading!
September 12, 2023 at 12:18 pm
Martha E Hollenhorst
Congratulations on your first book. It sounds like you’re presenting important concepts in a kid-friendly way. When the time is right, you will probably come up with the perfect way to encourage girls to explore STEM learning. Thanks for sharing with us.
September 12, 2023 at 12:43 pm
Danielle Hammelef
Congratulations on a wonderful book that has already resonated with so many readers, young and adult. Thank you for the interview.
September 12, 2023 at 12:44 pm
supermario6
Your book sounds wonderful congratulations!
September 12, 2023 at 12:53 pm
rosecappelli
Congratulations! Your book looks like a worthy addition to any library. Looking forward to reading it!
September 12, 2023 at 1:42 pm
Lisa Frenkel Riddiough
You had me at the title alone! And the premise is wonderful – not to mention the adorable and lovely illos. Congrats, Barbara! I can’t wait to read STITCH AND FIX!!
September 12, 2023 at 2:08 pm
Christine Van Zandt, up next is MILKWEED FOR MONARCHS (Beaming Books, 2024)
Thank you for sharing the book’s back story with us. I love the premise and knowing the process makes the book even more meaningful. Plus, a porcupine and a squirrel!
September 12, 2023 at 2:15 pm
Claire A. B. Freeland
This story looks so adorable, but also really relevant to so many. I love that you include guided discussion.
September 12, 2023 at 2:27 pm
Colleen Owen Murphy
Barbara, I love the multiple layers in this story. It sounds absolutely delightful and I cannot wait to read it. I do suspect you will get your tech story in at some point as well, but what a way to get started. And, what a wonderful retirement gift!!
September 12, 2023 at 3:15 pm
Anne C. Bromley
This is a story I must read! Congratulations and many thanks for sharing your process. Wishing you all the best!
September 12, 2023 at 3:31 pm
mnszemelcomcastnet
Congratulations! How exciting!
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September 12, 2023 at 3:41 pm
chaunceyelephant
Can’t wait to read and share with my grandkids, too!
September 12, 2023 at 3:44 pm
Jilanne Hoffmann
Terrific concept for a PB. There’s a big difference between empathy and self-sacrifice. Congrats on your debut, Barbara!
September 12, 2023 at 4:00 pm
Susan Johnston Taylor
Barbara, congrats on this book! I would love to win a copy and put it in my Little Free Library.
September 12, 2023 at 4:24 pm
Kate Woodle
Fixing and stitching are dear to my heart. I can’t wait to read your book. It sounds terrific.
September 12, 2023 at 4:46 pm
michelerietz
Congratulations, Barbara, on your book! I’m a sewer, so I can’t wait to read this!
September 12, 2023 at 6:02 pm
katiemillsgiorgio
How fun! Thanks for sharing!
September 12, 2023 at 6:09 pm
A
Congratulations! The illustrations are gorgeous!
September 12, 2023 at 6:16 pm
Susan Jobsky
No, is the most difficult word in the English language to say! At least it is for me. Can’t wait to read your debut picture book!
September 12, 2023 at 6:54 pm
rosihollinbeck
Congratulations on the book, Barabara. It looks so sweet. The illustrations are great. And thanks for the interview.
September 12, 2023 at 7:01 pm
Karin Larson
This looks like a delightful book. Congratulations, Barbara!
September 12, 2023 at 7:41 pm
lynnbmaccom
Congratulations on the new book. I’m so intrigued! It sounds like a wonderful premise and the illos are absolutely charming.
September 12, 2023 at 7:56 pm
nicolesalterbraun
Looks adorable & a fun read
September 12, 2023 at 8:41 pm
Marie Prins
Congratulations to you and Liza on Fix and Stitch! I love the warmth of the illustrations and the promise of a delightful story.
September 12, 2023 at 9:40 pm
marty bellis
Congrats on your debut book, Barbara!
September 13, 2023 at 8:54 am
Kelley Smith
I wish I had a book like this growing up. Learning the hard way in my late 30s 🙂
September 13, 2023 at 9:39 am
Rebecca Van Slyke
Congratulations on your new book! It’s such an important topic!
September 13, 2023 at 1:14 pm
kathydoherty1
Barbara, your book seems so sweet and cozy! Congratulations!
September 13, 2023 at 4:34 pm
Susan Latta
Congratulations, what a charming idea! Delightful!
September 13, 2023 at 7:55 pm
claudia sloan
Congratulations in your debut PB! I love the message you’re leaving the readers with, a very important one. …and the illustrations are lovely too. Best wishes for you!
September 14, 2023 at 9:38 am
Kate Dolan
I love the notion of this book about…NOTIONS! It sounds cleverly wrapped in that delicate balance of offering kindness to others as well as yourself.
September 14, 2023 at 11:07 am
Natasha Wing
Great story and I love the illustrations. Congratulations!
September 14, 2023 at 3:25 pm
Wendy Greenley
Congratulations, Barbara! Tech is important, but empathy even more so! Thanks for sharing the post.
September 14, 2023 at 5:33 pm
Elizabeth Wilcox Saba
Barbara I have added your book to my TBR list! Thank you.
September 15, 2023 at 4:15 pm
Kristi Mahoney
This story sounds wonderful and the illustrations are so adorable! I just ordered this book from my library. Congratulations!
September 15, 2023 at 6:56 pm
writeremmcbride
Oh, what a beautiful story, Barbara! And what important topics to address – helping, caring for others, caring for oneself. Thank you for opening this discussion for families and classrooms to have together. I look forward to reading it, and will look for it at my favorite bookstore!
September 16, 2023 at 10:30 am
pathaap
Congratulations, Barbara! Your story is wonderful. I look forward to reading it!
September 18, 2023 at 1:52 pm
Allison Fleischman
I can’t wait to read about each neighbor’s amusing dilemmas and Squirrel’s clever fixes! Congratulations!
September 20, 2023 at 1:17 pm
Karan Greene
What a delightful story! Congratulations!
September 22, 2023 at 12:08 am
Dana Atnip
Congratulations, Barbara, I really look forward to reading Fix and Stitch! It looks like a heartening story with wonderful art! 🙂
September 28, 2023 at 8:43 pm
Janet Frenck Sheets
Your work team was so thoughtful! A consultation with Tara sounds like the perfect gift–and now your book is in the world. Congratulations!
October 18, 2023 at 3:54 pm
sheilamurraynellis
I love this concept for a children’s story! The illustrations are delightful, too. I look forward to sharing this story with my grandchildren.
October 26, 2023 at 12:30 am
Elayne
Oh my goodness, this book sounds like my jam. I am going to have to track down a copy, stat! 🙂 Congrats, and good luck on your book journey!