Krystal Wade self-published a children’s book titled Mabel’s Magical Meal, a picture book that teaches young children about colours. I personally resonated with Krystal’s article in so many ways – in particular with how she has slowly found the confidence to step out of her comfort zone – spoiler alert: all through becoming a mum and self-publishing. Throughout her article below, Krystal will share with you the pros and cons of her experience with independent publishing and about her handy husband. But first…
Krystal’s favourite book from childhood?
I really enjoyed the Just Annoying and Just Kidding series by Andy Griffiths and Terry Denton.
Krystal’s kids favourite picture books?
My nearly 2-year-old son loves to read any book that has a touch and feel (That’s not my … series) and lift the flap books (Where is Spot).
In this Article
The magic of maternity leave
Instead of binge watching TV when my son napped, I worked on my children’s book
Hello! I’m Krystal. I’m a primary school teacher of 9 years and a new mum to a little boy. Throughout teaching, I have always kept in touch with reading children’s books and seeing the excitement kids have when they connect with a part of the story. After having my son, that is when I really wanted to try my hand at writing a book.
I’ve always enjoyed writing when I was younger. I particularly remember a story I wrote back when I was 7, about a bear and a rabbit having a picnic. But the thought of writing a book just seemed too farfetched and something that was in the too hard basket. But during maternity leave I built up my confidence and my passion for storytelling reignited.
Mabel’s Magical Meal
My first book and the inspiration behind it!
I wanted a book that my son could enjoy. Particularly now that he is becoming more engaged at pointing to things and trying to repeat words. Watching him love reading and turning the pages in books. He had his clear favourites in his book collection, and I really wanted a book written by his mum to be his new favourite pick.
Mabel’s Magical Meal is a delightful book designed for young readers aged 3-6 years. Through a magical journey of a meal featuring vibrant fruits and vegetables, the book helps children learn the colours of the rainbow. Each page features a double spread showcasing transport, animals, food and items of a particular colour, making learning both engaging and fun.
Why did I choose to publish?
I wanted it to reach a larger audience. I not only wanted my son to enjoy it, but his friends at daycare, his cousins and our friends’ children.
I then decided that if I was going to spend this time and effort, why not aim further than just our bubble of friends.
As a result, I have ended up printing a bulk supply, made a website, doing author visits, library storytelling and attending markets.
My biggest obstacle to publish?
Trusting my gut.
I have a problem with always second guessing myself and listening to the other voices and therefore often disregarding my own knowledge. I have now learnt to trust my instincts and trust that my experience of reading picture books every day at school has taught me valuable insights.
To learn more about Little Ivory Haus and to watch Laura’s FREE webinars on Getting Started with writing a children’s book & Marketing for Self-published authors, visit her website here – Discounted price on Laura’s courses are available via Birchy’s Books affiliate links.
A handy husband
Having a very handy husband has saved me a great deal of money on this first book. Matt illustrated Mabel’s Magical Meal. Formatted the book and made the print ready files. Matt also created my website for me to be able to sell the book and offer author visits.
Self-publishing and setting goals
Overall my self-publishing journey, has been going good. I set myself a goal to have Mabel’s Magical Meal available for purchase by Christmas, and great news, they arrived mid-October! I am a list maker. I feel that making my lists and updating them has been helpful.
Setting mini goals amongst the overarching goal allowed me to feel success at different points in the journey.
It is really easy to get sucked into the feeling of ‘this is too hard, why am I doing this, I should just quit’
So, having those wins along the way have been reassuring.
In the beginning of my journey, I spent a lot of time googling, joining Facebook groups, following other like-minded authors on Instagram, watched a lot of YouTube videos. Since self-publishing, I now have been attending free writing sessions offered by Brimbank Library.
A self-publishing timeline:
I had originally written another book in September, 2023 – which will be touched on soon enough in the years to come.
- Mabel’s Magical Meal was written in January 2024.
- I started my Instagram account in February, as I had read about the importance of beginning the marketing even before the book was illustrated.
- My books were delivered mid October!
So long story short, 10 months is the timeframe it has taken me to have Mabel’s Magical Meal in my hands.
Find more insightful articles from Birchy's Books featured Indie Authors:
If you’re interested in sharing your self-publishing story on Indie Author of the Week – get in touch, today!
Putting myself out there
[Through self-publishing] I have learnt that I am braver and more courageous than I thought I was. Putting myself out there was a huge step, especially since I am someone who worries about being judged and disappointing people.
This still terrifies me, and self-doubt always creeps in, worrying that someone will buy my book and hate it, or no one will buy it. But I do feel proud for taking a chance on myself and knowing that I can do this. I’m also surprised with how confident I’ve become by reaching out to strangers, putting myself out there on social media, and attending conferences all on my own.
The final product
Completely and utterly nervous.
That was the feeling I had when I first received the physical copy of my book. I also think watching other reels and videos of others with their excitement and happy tears, put a bit of pressure on how I was supposed to feel.
So, I felt let down when my body didn’t react that way. I also realise that my first reaction is to critique and judge the tiniest details, which does pull away from having happiness at the forefront. Overall, the feeling was surreal, and overwhelming that all the hard work has turned into a final product.
The con’s of self-publishing
- Doing it on your own.
You’re not only the writer… You’re the:
- admin,
- researcher,
- sales consultant and
- marketing agent.
- You’re Everything!
I also found it hard to be on my phone a lot more than I use to be. Trying to find that balance of being present and then trying to work with whatever time I had available.
The pro’s to self-publishing
Being able to have control over the time frame.
There was no way I’d have the patience to wait over a possible of 2 years for it to be published.
I also love that I can say that I have completed this on my own. I never really considered tradition or hybrid publishing. I had the time (working part-time) and lucky enough to have the expenses to start investing in myself.
I have my second children’s book being illustrated right this moment. Hoping for a mid-year release in 2025. Sneak peeks and updates will be announced via my Instagram account
Where can you find Mabel’s Magical Meal?
Best way is to get your very own copy is via my website and I am in the works of getting it in a local newsagent in Anglesea VIC, and in the Brimbank Library catalogue. You may find a few copies in the local area of Sydenham in the Free Libraries that are located around.
You’ll also find three copies donated to Sunshine Hospital, VIC.
My advice to aspiring authors?
You can do it.
There are now SO many groups to join to help guide you.
Some are free, some are more affordable, and some are more expensive.
I am someone who can help consult you in self-publishing. Reach out via my website.
Find and follow Krystal on socials – Facebook & Instagram and visit her website – www.wrentalespublishing.com.au to purchase Mabels Magical Meal.
Thank you for sharing your self-publishing experience with Birchy’s Books, Krystal!
Next week we feature the lovely Shana Roberts from Nurture Connect Play – She has written two books and shares her journey to becoming published!
