This week Spotlight on Authors visits with Doris Morales, author of All Families Are Special.

She was born in El Salvador, grew up in South East Los Angeles and now lives in Puerto Rico with her husband of ten years. 

About writing …

When did you first realize you wanted to become a writer?
I have always had a very big imagination! My earliest memory of wanting to become a writer was in the third grade.  I turned in a story that I had originally made up to entertain my younger sister. The teacher loved it so much that she shared it with the class. She was the first one to tell me “you should be a writer.”

What book(s) has most influenced your writing?
A number of books have influenced my writing, especially those that carry with them a positive message. I’m a big Mitch Albom fan.

When and where do you prefer to write?
I do my best work when I’m sitting next to a window.  Sometimes I’ll get ideas for characters or subjects just by opening the curtains. Every person has a story to tell.  I really enjoy imagining the potential adventures that different people have been on.

What was your biggest challenge in writing your book?
One of the biggest challenges was just getting started. I needed to find a way to cover a topic that many parents have difficulty with, and I wanted to do it in a way that was child friendly.

About you …

What do you like to do when you are not writing?
I love to read! I read everything from mystery novels to self-help books.

Can you share something that is happening in your life that would surprise us?
I am in the process of obtaining my Educational Specialist degree.  As a teacher I strongly believe that in order to be a good teacher I must never stop being a good student.

Do you have any unique talents besides writing?
I make really good pineapple pancakes!

What can we expect from you in the future?
Anything is possible! Hopefully, a few more books!

Quick hits …

Is there an author that you would really like to meet?
I would love to meet Elie Wiesel. He is such an inspirational person. His writing completely changed my views on life.  Every year I make sure to incorporate his novel “Night” into my lesson plans.  He inspired me to create the L.I.F.E. club. The main purpose of the club is to help students gain a better understanding of human rights issues around the world, and to promote anti-bullying.

What book are you currently reading?
The Hobbit by J.R.R. Tolkien

Who designed your latest book cover?
I would have to give my mother credit for this one. She took the picture of my sister and her newborn baby. I loved it so much that I decided to use it as my cover.

What is your favourite quote?
“I pray to the God within me that He will give me the strength to ask Him the right questions” –Elie Wiesel

Where can new fans can follow you?
Doris P. Morales @ goodreads

All Families Are Special
By Doris P. Morales
Amazon | Barnes & Noble

It is the first day of school! Jaime is ready to make some new friends. Each of the children that he meets has their own unique family. Eric and his sister Georgia are adopted. Linda lives with her daddy. Danny lives with his Aunt Susie and his Uncle Tommy. Sallie has two mommies. Jaime’s family is unique too! He lives with his mom, grandma, and his grandpa. The purpose of this book is to help children understand that all families are special.

Words on a Limb would like to thank Doris for sharing with us today.  We wish you much success in your writing career.