Interview with Lynne Harley
Author of What If You Could?
I am an emerging author and my first book "What If You Could?" has just been published by Shadow Paw Press, in Regina, Saskatchewan. This inspired children's story is for readers of all ages, as it speaks of the internal voices we hear from when we desire more for our lives and prepare to leave our comfort zone. It is about a little caterpillar who can "think" on his way to becoming a butterfly. I am currently cycling from Pike Lake,Saskatchewan to Montreal, Quebec, to promote my book. I am doing this tour in memory and celebration of my brother, Craig's life, who struggled with mental health and wellness and died 5 years ago. A portion of each book sold will be gifted to Jack.org. This amazing organization is working hard to dissolve barriers around mental health in support of our youth. Lynne Harley To learn more visit www.lynneharley.com
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How would you describe 'What if you Could ' to a new reader?
- “What If You Could?” is a story about transformation. It is a story about a caterpillar who desires more in his life. He looks at his longing and discontent while munching leaves. Soon he imagines a big dream that stirs him from his boredom. To believe in his dream, the caterpillar must decide which voice to listen to – the critical voice that warns him against change, or the kind voice that encourages him to believe in his dreams. This inspirational story of transformation is everyone’s story. It brings awareness to the internal self-talk that we all hear when we prepare to leave our comfort zone, and spread our wings and fly. My story is written in active, vivid language for young readers. Much of the imagery is drawn from the natural world of butterflies.
What was the inspiration behind 'What If You Could' ?
- My life work, spanning 40 years as a Social Worker and as a Transformational Life Coach, has been to empower adults to believe in themselves and to give credence to the still, small voice of truth that is within all of us. My desire is to plant these seeds into the minds of young children.
I have written “What If You Could?” for beginner readers, ages 4-8, yet the universal message is one that will be embraced by readers of all ages. Everyone, from children to teens to graduates to seniors, must navigate change. This book speaks to the power of listening deeply to our inner voice.
Which authors do you admire? How have they influenced your writing style?
- When my now adult sons were young, I loved Robert Munch's book "I'll Love You Forever" and Dr. Seuss's book "Oh The Places You'll Go." I appreciated the messages that were in these books for people of all ages.
Can you tell us a little about the locations in your book?
- The following Universal Book Link points to various online bookstores where the book is now available (not all, by any means).
https://books2read.com/whatifyoucould
What advice would you give to aspiring authors?
- If the ideas for your book light you up, I would say go for it and listen to the inner voice that says -What If You Could write a book? Too often we talk ourselves out of letting our light shine.
What's your writing process?
- Listening to what feels like inspired thought and lights me up
Which character in 'What If You Could' has had the greatest impact on readers?
- The endearing little caterpillar
If 'What If You Were' were to be adapted for TV or film, who would you see in the lead role? Who did you have in your mind’s eye when you wrote him/her?
- This would be an animated film, and I believe Jim Carey would do a great job of the internal voices:-)
How have readers responded to 'What If They Could'?
- They love it. Many readers are buying it for graduates and adults in transition. It has a powerful message.
Where next? What are you working on now?
- The adult version of "What If You Could" based on my cycling tour that I am currently on across Canada. It is proving to be an amazing experience. The subtitle will be "Anatomy of a Dream Realized."
