Exactly how local author Deanne Warman found the time during her busy teaching career to release her children’s book is beyond me. Titled Koi Kingdom: The Colours of Courage, this delightful read wraps important life skills into it’s beautifully-illustrated pages. A heart-warming read for the young ones.
Let’s find out a bit more about the author…
Your author name
Deanne Warman
Your book title
Koi Kingdom: The Colour Of Courage
Give us the elevator pitch for your book?
Don’t be fooled into thinking life in this idyllic environment is blissfully serene, and its depths are a tranquil paradise, free of danger and void of excitement. Don’t be deceived by appearances – danger lurks in the shadows below, and terror swoops down from the skies. Come and take a dive into the water and discover secrets, mystery and dangerous intrigue.
Experience first-hand the daily challenges and exciting adventures towards the greater independence of the pond’s fishy inhabitants. Follow the escapades of the quirky yet heroic Sanke and his pond-mates as they uncover the value of selflessness, kindness, honesty and valour and the joy of being part of something bigger than themselves.
Learn about friendship, love and relationships and take heed of the life lessons and knowledge gained by the fascinating characters who live in the depths of Koi Kingdom. Be swept along on a journey of discovery in the thrilling narratives of a master storyteller, Tellatale; experience the escapades of brave traveler Gilliver; swim beside courageous Sanke as he overcomes his fears and matures and grows in stature in this coming-of-age novel. Learn a valuable lesson from the clever but misguided Tategoi.
This beautifully told and highly emotive story of the brightly coloured koi fish and their adversaries, both animal and human, illustrates the importance of family, the power of love and the sense of belonging that is paramount to the survival of all living things.
How long did it take for you to finish the final draft of your book?
In truth, about five years because I had a hectic full-time occupation and had to squeeze writing time into my schedule of working and being a single mum.
What makes this book different from others on the shelf?
This is a story, which is universal in its message, deals with choices and responsibly. It shows both the good and the bad of human nature – via the lives of fish – in a community. The themes and message are clear -there is a need for more community spirit and integrity in the world, However, it gives us hope for the future.
What was the hardest part of the writing journey for you?
The editing process in its entirety. It requires real commitment to rewriting parts of the story, often more than once!
Where did most of your writing take place?
At home, sitting quietly at the dining room table.
What kept you motivated to write during the times you felt stuck?
The encouragement from close friends who said they loved the story and felt the story was necessary for children and adults alike.
Tell us something about yourself that readers would not be able to guess?
I am an empath, and passionate about nature, and the environments in which we live. These issues plus family and friends are my priority.
Have you written any other books?
I have, but none have been published and I am sure would be in need of revision and editing before being in the wider world.
Assuming you may write full time, what is your day job?
I am a teacher of English and have been for 42 years.
How should someone get in touch with you?
