Friday Fiction | Getting to know you with Mistie Dal Molin

Today’s Getting to know you interview is with Mistie Dal Molin

Please welcome Mistie Dal Molin a children’s author to our blog today. We are going to get to know Mistie and also find out about her new book.

1. Can you tell us a little about yourself?

Thank for having me!

I am a proud wife, mum and communications professional. I write for children in my spare time. I’m passionate about helping people, by writing about issues that matter. I hope my books inspire others to tell their stories.

2. When you were a child did you have a favourite book or books?

My Enid Blyton box set was my favourite. I can’t tell you how many times I read Amelia Jane!

3. Do you have a favourite Genre to both read and to write?

I love children’s picture books. There is something magical about them. Picture books give you a chance to stop, take a breath and just … BE. Reading to my boys, is easily my favourite part of the day. When they go to bed, I read true crime books or anything by Stephen King or Bryce Courtenay.

4. Did you have any favourite authors growing up who have influenced you?

As a little girl, I read anything. Eric Hill’s “Spot” books series were probably my earliest favourites. In my early teens, I loved anything by Ann M Martin, R.L Stine or Roald Dahl.

5. When did you know you wanted to be an author?

Primary School. I always enjoyed writing stories and poetry. My dream was to, one day, publish something and finally be able to hold it in my hands!

6. How did you go about becoming an author?

I started researching course about 5 years ago. I hear amazing things about the Australian Writers Centre, so I booked myself in for their Writing Picture Books course. It was fantastic.

My teacher, Cathie, quickly became a trusted mentor and friend.

I took her advice to edit my manuscripts as best as I could, then leave my stories alone for at least 6 months. I came back to them with fresh eyes and a new perspective. One year later, I booked in for Cathie’s picture book masterclass.

My editor saw something in Rainbows From Poppy, and we developed it further together. The Book Cooks searched for suitable illustrators who fit my text. After several samples, we chose the fabulous, Chelsea Young. Her soft watercolour style was the perfect fit.

I also started following my favourite authors and illustrators on social media. From there, I booked myself in with several other courses. I’m a proud new duckie with Jen Storer’s, Girl and Duck and will continue to learn from their fabulous group this year.

I am still learning! The children’s literature industry is filled with an incredible amount of support. I am currently working with several authors and illustrators here in Australia the U.S and the U.K.

7. If you were not a writer what would you like to be?

That’s an easy one – definitely a funeral director, again. I was a funeral director for over 10 years. The role becomes a part of who you are. It’s an incredibly unique industry full of phenomenal people. Colleagues quickly become family. It’s still a big part of who I am and it will always be special to me.

8. Outside reading and writing, what do you like to do?

I have a gorgeous husband and two beautiful boys. My life is crazy busy between work, school, studying and sports – lots of sports! I live for it. There’s a strong sense of community where I live. Our school and sports teams are full of great people and families. It’s lovely to see grandparents and extended family attending basketball and soccer games (pre-covid). It’s just a beautiful, big country town feeling here.

9. Do you have a place you love to visit or would love to visit?

The family farm. The greenery, the cows, the quiet – it’s the best.
Other favourites are Pisa, Rome, New York and Philadelphia. Can’t wait to go back.
One day I would like to go to New Zealand, Hawaii or Canada.

10. If you could have a meal with 3 living people who would you choose and why?

My little nephew in America. Lockdown has been really tough for him, not seeing his family and friends. We’ve missed SO MANY milestones together and have a lot to catch up on!
Sylvester Stallone – because I adore him! I think I’m his number one fan, and
Stephen King – because he is genius and I have so many questions!

Finally can you tell us about your latest release. Where can we buy the book and where can we find you on the web?

RAINBOWS FROM POPPY is a picture book for children aged 3-7. It is a reassuring story about an unforgettable grandfather and the promise he made to his family before he died. A valuable resource to encourage important conversations.

I wrote it for my eldest son, who had questions about his Poppy, who died of cancer.
It’s for children who will never meet their grandparents. It’s also for all the grandparents who will never know their grandchildren.
Hopefully it encourages conversations, and helps parents and teachers to approach this difficult subject in a gentle way, offering some comfort to anyone who has ever lost someone they love.

It is available on Amazon, Book Depository and Booktopia.
You can find out more about my book, RAINBOWS FROM POPPY on my website: www.mistiedalmolin.com. My website also has teaching notes and activity sheets. These are all free to download, as needed. You’re also welcome to follow me on Facebook for book reviews, recommendations and upcoming project news.

Thank you for having me!