I can barely believe it’s actually happening, BUT at some time this fall, I will have my very first book birthday. As tomorrow is my real birthday, I thought I’d give you a sneak peek of the cover today.
I sold the manuscript during the pandemic to a small press in Hawaii (Island Heritage Press). I won’t go into all the details as there will be a special Simply 7 at some point this fall. It’s all been very nebulous until I saw the first sketches.
I did NOT illustrate this manuscript, I only wrote it. They wanted a local Hawaiian illustrator and I couldn’t be more pleased. When I saw the first sketches of my little rooster (named Kauai after the island that inspired him), I was thrilled! He is so dang adorable! And the final sketches (and the final book) are just so wonderful to see. It’s going to be a REAL book someday!
I don’t know the release date just yet. I think I’ll know when I have the actual book in my hands. But suffice it to say that I’m excited AND there will be one heck of a giveaway when it does finally come out. Without further ado, here is the cover (isn’t it cute?):
CONGRATS! And happy birthday to you!!!
Thank you.
Congratulations, Jena! And thanks for all you do for kidlit and for promoting others so tirelessly! Happy Birthday!
Thank you. 😊
Beautiful cover! Congratulations and happy birthday!
Thank you.
The cover is wonderful! Love the bright colors and Kauai! Can’t wait to see the rest! Congratulations and Happy Birthday!
Thank you!
WooHOO! Love the cover! CONGRATULATIONS!
Thank you Jerry. 😊❤️
THIS IS FANTASTIC NEWS!! Congrats, Jena! That rooster is adorable. I can’t wait to see more. Happy Birthday! (We happen to share a birthday. :-))
Thank you Marci and happy birthday!
Congrats, Jena!
Thank you!
Beautiful cover! So thrilled for you! Happy Birthday!
Thank you.
Lovely cover! 🙂 Congratulations!
Thank you.
My wings are flapping with joy for you! I have had some funny experiences with Kauai chickens, which as you know are everywhere on the island. Can’t wait to read your debut!
Thank you!
You have inspired and encouraged us newbies for years. Can’t wait to read this delightfully colorful book. Appreciate all you do!
Aww! Thank you. 😊
You’ve been an inspiration to us newbies for years. Can’t wait to read this lovely, colorful, fun book! Appreciate all you do!
Thank you!
Your talent AND persistence paid off!
Aww! Thank you Karen. 😊❤️
So exciting! Congrats!
Thank you. 😊
Congratulations!! I am SO happy for you and can’t wait to read this!!!
Thank you. ❤️
I’m so proud of you, you’ve worked hard for this day. The book artist is a treasure, what a fun colorful cover❣️
I love that you love what you do. Can’t wait to read the book. You’re not only a great writer but a fantastic artist too.❤️❤️😊❤️
Thank you. 😊❤️
CONGRATS!
Thank you.
It’s so sweet! I love all the color too! HUGE congrats and a very happy birthday! 🙂
Thank you. 😊
I agree–Kauai is utterly adorable! So excited for you.
Thank you Janet. 😊
Congrats, Jena! Adorable! And happy birthday!
Thank you.
Congrats!! Beautiful cover!!
Not sure if my first comment made it through. So congrats, again, on a beautiful cover!! Looking forward to seeing the book!
Thank you.
Congratulations Jena! What a plucky chicken! I’m so happy to see your announcement, knowing all you generously do for other creatives.
Aww! Thank you Heather.
Congratulations, Jena! My first picture book was published with Island Heritage, too. I’m thrilled for you!
Aww! Amazing. Thank you.
OHMYGOSH,I’MSOEXCITED! I have seven questions to ask you about this! At least.
Big cheers to you, Jena!
Aww! Thank you Jen! 😊❤️
I am super thrilled for you, Jena!! And doubly excited as a 20+ year chicken owner…LOL! 🎉❤️🎉
Thank you! ❤️ And this book is extra chicken-y with facts. 😊