I Love You For You was the winner in the Children’s (Early to intermediate readers) category of the 2018 IndieReader Discovery Awards, where undiscovered talent meets people with the power to make a difference.
Following find an interview with author Heather Lester.
What is the name of the book and when was it published?
I Love You For You was published in February 2018.
What’s the book’s first line?
“When you came into my life, I thought I’d teach you to be just like me. As you’ve grown I’ve come to realize, you have your own unique personality.”
What’s the book about? Give us the “pitch”.
A child might be different from their parent in a lot of ways, but a parent’s love is unconditional. I Love You For You celebrates the fun a parent and child have when they embrace what makes each other different.
What inspired you to write the book? A particular person? An event?
My three children are the inspiration for this book. It is important that my children know that I will love them unconditionally and will encourage them to pursue the things they want to do, even if those things are different from what I would choose.
What’s the most distinctive thing about the main character? Who-real or fictional-would you say the character reminds you of?
I Love You For You features a diverse group of parents and children. I wanted to make this story a group of characters, rather than one main character, because I hope that every child and parent can find themselves in part of this book.
What’s the main reason someone should really read this book?
People should read this book because it is a story that encourages children to embrace their individuality and encourages parents to love their children for who they are. Celebrating and respecting the differences between people is an important message for the world today.
Is this the first you’ve written?
Yes, this is my debut book.