I’ve been so amazed by how much goes into a children’s book – I can tell you it’s been quite a journey! To create Mitch and Mooch Try Swimming, I have been honoured to work with some very talented people. If it takes a village to raise a baby, then believe me, I feel like I’ve been working with a town!

You know when you set out on something that you will face some big decisions – in the case of a book: to self publish or try and approach agents who will approach publishers for you. That was a biggie, make no mistake. But, after a lot of soul searching, I felt that self publishing was the way forward – I’d have more creative control, and I believe the Mitch and Mooch series would find its audience.

As I am setting the date to launch the book, I can’t help but think about all the other people though, who have had an impact or left an impression with it’s creation. From my editor – Lisa Edwards (editor of Tom Gates, Horrible Histories, and so many other wonderful books for children) who gave amazing advice, to my friend and colleague, Simon of Swimabout, who taught me about the importance of certain techniques in swimming for children. Friends and family who have had to read through endless iterations and versions of the story, correcting as they went and encouraging.

I have also made new friends and colleagues through writing this book – my wonderful illustrators Gabs and Jorge over in Brazil at GA2 Creative who’s passion and innovation have brought characters to life, and added interest and creativity to the story. I never imagined this book would turn out to be such an international affair!

I’ve had so much support also from an international community of Children’s Authors and Illustrators via various groups on Facebook and other networks. Also specialist groups for parents of autistic or dyslexic children, their help is invaluable.

I never imagined when I started that I would write websites, set up mailing lists, even (don’t laugh) write an Author Biography for myself. And yet, here we are….a month from launching, and finally I can bring a story, a series even, that I am passionate about to children everywhere.

Thank you everyone who has been, and continues to be, riding the wave with me.

Jan