Just One Pebble. One Boy’s Quest to End Hunger

Written by Dianna Wilson Sirkovsky

Illustrated by Sara Casilda

(Clavis; September 15, 2023)

I’m excited to have Dianna Wilson Sirkovsky visit my blog today. Dianna is the author of the soon-to-be released picture book, Just One Pebble. One Boy’s Quest to End Hunger. I thoroughly enjoyed reading Dianna’s newest book.

Welcome, Dianna! I’m so glad you are stopping by today to visit. Tell us a little about yourself.

Thanks so much for having me, Angie! I have always wanted to write but only in the last few years have I found the time to do so.  I’ve always loved picture books. I particularly enjoy and appreciate what illustrations bring to a story. What draws me to these books, other than simple delight, is the endless opportunity to create something wonderful – bringing to life the next story waiting to be told.  And, in the process, hopefully creating a book a child will love and remember forever.

I agree with your thoughts regarding picture books. They are truly delightful!

Congratulations on your new picture book Just One Pebble. One Boy’s Quest to End Hunger (Clavis, September 15, 2023). This is such a beautiful book! I love the message. What inspired this story?

I first read about Braeden and his work on The Hunger Site. I knew immediately that I wanted to write about this amazing 9-year-old! I started writing and researching within days. Once it was written, I reached out to Braeden’s family.

Wow! You jumped right into this story. It is an amazing story!

What writing journey did you follow as you wrote Just One Pebble. One Boy’s Quest to End Hunger? How long did it take from idea to publication?

I started writing the story in the Fall, 2020 and began submitting to publishers the following Spring. Clavis purchased the story in June, 2021 and the Dutch edition was published Fall 2022. The English version will hit bookshelves this September 15, 2023.

That’s interesting that it was printed in Dutch first. I’m glad that it is being printed in English as well. It’s such an important message and cause.

The text is perfectly enriched by Sara Casilda’s illustrations. How much input did you have as your book went to Sara to be illustrated?

I always say that Sara’s beautiful work is the magic that brings my books to life! We emailed regularly and having websites showed her what Braeden and his mom looked like. I’m not sure if that made it easier or harder! Illustrating a living person must be stressful but Sara did a stellar job. They look true-to-life and simply amazing! It is my sincere hope that we’ll have the chance to work together again.

She did an amazing job, and I imagine it would be harder to illustrate a living person. At least I would be challenged. But then I only draw stick figures. It’s neat that you could email back and forth. I hope you get to work together again too!

And thanks, Dianna, for sharing the website for Braeden. Read more about Braeden here.

What special plans do you have for the book birthday (book release) of Just One Pebble?

Well, it’s a double birthday as the book comes to shelves on September 15, my 65^th birthday! I haven’t given it much thought, to be honest, but will certainly celebrate our joint appearance on this beautiful planet.

Happy birthday! What a special release day AND birthday! I hope you have a wonderful birthday (both the book AND you). CONGRATULATIONS on the Kirkus review. Wow!

What tip(s) could you offer to picture book writers who are seeking to get their books published?

I know it’s difficult and we often feel like we are writing in a void. Write the stories of your heart; don’t write to trends; find reliable critique partners – they will be your strongest support; keep learning – take advantage of all the free webinars out there and purchase the ones you are able to that will further your craft and answer your specific questions and needs. The world needs our stories, so please keep writing them.

Excellent advice. Thank you!

Your first picture book, James’ Reading Rescue, came out in 2021. What other projects can you share?

I’m very happy to share that JRR has published in 8 languages, including English. Sara and I are so excited to have our book reaching so many children around the world. We can only hope for the same with Just One Pebble!

I’ve been busy writing and revising this summer. I have a couple of new stories that I’m really happy about, one with an inanimate MC. This was a revision challenge from my critique group and it really threw me, at first, but I’m so pleased with the outcome. I am hoping to submit a few stories in the coming months. I’m also querying agents, as well.

How exciting! Eight languages for James’ Reading Rescue. And at least two languages for Just One Pebble! Best wishes with your querying. I’m so curious about your inanimate object main character. Fascinating.

Surprise us. What else would you like to share?

Well, both Sara and I love cats. I try to have one in almost every story! In addition to picture books, I’m a huge fan of history, mystery and time-travel stories. I am a cookie decorator and love to make gingerbread houses. I also paint but lately that has taken a back seat writing. There are only so many hours in a day!

Thanks so much, Angie!

Having a cat in almost every one of your stories—that’s a fun idea! I love cats too. And sadly, yes, there are only so many hours in each day. I love doing so many things, but one must at least occasionally sleep.

Thanks again, Dianna, for stopping by. All the best wishes to you!

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