Discovering the Joy of Books with Children's Author Tonya Duncan Ellis

Looking for inspiration on how to encourage children to read and enjoy the process? Look no further! We had the pleasure of chatting with Tonya Duncan Ellis, the brilliant mind behind the award-winning 13-book Sophie Washington Children's Chapter series and They Built Me for Freedom. Tonya shared her journey to becoming a successful writer, the impact her books have had on kids, educators, and readers across the US, and her secrets for making reading exciting and engaging for young minds.

Tonya also provided valuable insights on how to choose the right books and series that will keep kids captivated, and the benefits of introducing them to graphic novels as a stepping stone towards longer books. We even discussed fun activities like book clubs and movie nights related to their favorite stories, as well as the importance of letting children have a say in what they read. Listen in to learn how to make reading a delightful experience that opens up a world of possibilities for your child.

But Tonya's wisdom doesn't end there – she also shared her daily writing routine, tips to overcome writer's block, and her approach to goal setting and intention setting to stay motivated. We explored her writing journey, the support she found within her community, and her latest novel, They Built Me for Freedom. Don't miss out on this insightful and heartwarming conversation with Tonya Duncan Ellis, and discover how the power of reading can truly transform lives.

About Tonya: 

TONYA DUNCAN ELLIS is author of the award-winning, 13-book, SOPHIE WASHINGTON children’s chapter series and THEY BUILT ME FOR FREEDOM (HarperCollins, Balzer + Bray, 2024). She is a member of the Society of Children’s Book Writers and Illustrators (SCBWI), the Authors Guild, and the Brown Bookshelf’s Highlights Foundation-sponsored Amplify Black Stories storyteller cohort. Tonya has spoken and taught at writing conferences at the Highlights Foundation and for SCBWI in New York City and for SCBWI Houston and Austin, TX chapters. A former journalist and freelance magazine writer, she holds a BA degree in French from Centre College of Kentucky and an MBA degree from Washington University in St. Louis. Tonya is represented by Sara Megibow of kt Literary. She lives in Houston, Texas and is married with three children.

LINKS, RESOURCES & QUOTES

Tonya’s Sophie Washington Series 

The Global Community for Children’s Book Creators (SCBWI) 

The Creative Penn Podcast

Reggie and Delilah’s Year of Falling

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