Reflecting on My First Year as an Author

Time has flown and over a year has passed since Goose&Bear was first published! Looking back at the year, I'm filled with a sense of accomplishment and gratitude. It has been an incredible adventure, filled with memorable moments, challenges, and wonderful surprises!

One of the most rewarding experiences has been sharing my book with children in nurseries, schools, and libraries. The joy of reading to children and seeing their faces light up with interest and excitement is truly unparalleled. My biggest audience that I’ve had the privilege to read to was during the Maidenhead Big Read Festival at Maidenhead Library. As a teacher, reading to large groups of children doesn’t faze me but having grownups there too was a new and daunting experience. Luckily, Goose&Bear is a delightful tale for all ages and I was encouraged to see smiles on the faces of toddlers and grandparents alike!

Another highlight from the year has got to be that the feedback and reviews I've received have been overwhelmingly positive. I'm thrilled to share that my book has garnered 5-star reviews on Amazon, GoodReads and the Austin Macauley website. Each review fills me with a sense of accomplishment and pride so thank you to everyone who has shared their thoughts on Goose&Bear- I am utterly delighted to read how my book has impacted you.

Receiving my first royalty check was a milestone I’ll never forget. It was a tangible reward for my efforts and a moment that made all the long hours of writing and promoting feel worthwhile! However, the journey has not been without its challenges. Balancing my day job as a teacher, visiting schools to run author workshops, and writing my second book has been a demanding task. Finding the time to manage all these responsibilities has been tricky but my passion for teaching and writing has got me through!

Another unexpected yet delightful aspect of this journey has been being recognized by fans in public. It's a new experience that I’m still getting used to and all feels very surreal, but it's heartwarming to know that my book has made such an impact and every shocked, smiling face of recognition fills me with a great sense of joy.

As I look back on this year, I'm proud of what I've achieved and excited for what the future holds. Writing has always been a dream, and this year has brought me closer to it than ever before. Thank you to everyone who has supported me along the way. Here’s to many more years of writing and connecting with readers!

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