First proof

Got my hands on the first proof copy today.
Unfortunately, before it had even arrived, I'd made a couple of revisions to the text, and tweaked some of the illustrations, so I need to wait for an updated proof before I commit to publish.
Expecting the new version between Tuesday and Thursday, so should be OK to launch the paperback with the Kindle ebook on Hallowe'en.

Chico goes digital

Really excited about my new graphics tablet.
Being able to sketch, ink and colour directly on my PC opens up the possibility of the next Chico Chihuahua book being an entirely digital production.

I'm on Amazon

New Author page on Amazon. Not long now until launch.

The real-life Chico and Chica

In case anyone was wondering where the inspiration for Chico and Chica came from, here are my two chihuahuas, Harry and Astra.

They're not actually related and Astra is four years older and definitely the boss.

Harry is mischievous and full of energy, just like Chico.

Before and after

Like all of the illustrations in ¿Dónde está mi hermana? this one started as a pencil drawing, overdrawn with a fine line pen.
I then scanned it into Photoshop to do the colouring.

Out for review

Advance review copies of ¿Dónde está my hermana? have been sent out, and it's having a final check for any last minute grammar glitches.
We should be ready to publish within the week.

Why bilingual children's books?

I started learning to speak Spanish in 2010, in my 50's.
I'd never been too keen on languages at school, and Spanish hadn't been an option back then.
I love the language, the culture, and the people.
Learning another language has given me an insight into the difficulties experienced by anyone trying to learn English and a new-found respect for anyone who manages to learn enough English to integrate into society and secure employment.
I believe that learning another language changes one's attitude, not only to people from other countries and cultures, but also towards racism and bigotry we see in this country.
I have more patience with the former and zero tolerance for the latter.
So let's teach kids about other languages, other cultures, broaden their horizons and teach them tolerance and understanding.

Introducing Chico

Say hello to Chico, star of my soon-to-be-published bilingual early reader in Spanish and English.

Along with his sister, Chica, he'll be playing hide-and-seek and encouraging children to read in both languages.