Welcome Our New Children’s Author-Neena Gaynor!

As COVID-19 slowed every aspect of our lives this past spring, we became a bit hesitant as a company to move forward on acquiring new projects, which we found to not be a common thread amongst our publishing peers. The constant and numerous day-to-day changes and challenges we were facing gave us all a feeling of uncertainty. However, we had several projects already in the works, and, of course, as the host of #FaithPitch, we are often blessed to find manuscripts that jump out as being special amongst the many pitches that are posted.

During all of this, a picture book query about a young girl who had been on the receiving end of unkind words came to our attention. We could identify with sweet Goldie, whose heart was hurting from mean things she was called by kids at school. Even as adults, we were able to remember and relate to Goldie’s tears over having others speak words that made us feel sad, feel alone, feel ugly or unwanted. Of course, after chatting with Neena, it was apparent that this book is one that is needed for children of all ages (and their parents too) and that Little Lamb Books is the right publishing house to share it with the world. Today, we are excited to announce the acquisition of Words like Honey, the lyrical picture book, from Neena Gaynor, author of The Birds and The Bees (Scrivenings Press, 2019). Please help us welcome Neena to our Little Lamb Books family and read our quick Q&A interview to learn more about her and her new title coming Spring 2022.

Describe your family. Wade, my husband of ten years, and I have two little boys. We also have a dog, Perry, a beta fish (Blue), and countless other critters that we’re always raising and trying to learn about We also keep bees and have ten hives.

What is your professional background/work experience? Currently, I’m a stay-at-home, homeschooling mother of two. I’m a beekeeper, frequently presenting and instructing on honey bees for my community. Before children, I was a nurse in the emergency department and surgery units.

What is your favorite part about being a beekeeper?Popping off the top of a hive, peeking in a secret world, and reaping the reward of sweet honey and time in the sunshine will always be one of my favorites.

Who was the most influential in your growing up years? My parents continue to be wonderful examples of love, steadfastness, and hard work.

How did you come up with the idea/concept for your book? When I first put a bee suit on my son, he said, “I’m safe from anything in this!” I wish that was the case, but we all know the world isn’t the kindest place. Bumps, bruises, and even bee stings are sure to come—but what does make the world a sweeter place?

What is the main purpose of this story? To show children that though the world is frequently full of stings, it’s always best to respond with grace and kindness.

Who is your favorite fictional hero(ine)? Atticus Finch

Have you published any other children’s or YA books, novels, etc.? A Christian Contemporary Romance novel, The Bird and the Bees, was published April 2020. The second edition was published by Scrivenings Press, July 2020.

Where is your favorite place to write? The kitchen table, right in the middle of the house. I like being able to hear my boys playing together and being a part of their conversations. Sure, it’s a little distracting, but I love it.

Do you prefer coffee or tea (or both, or neither)? Coffee… so much coffee. But tea with honey is great too!

We are excited to welcome Neena to our Little Lamb Books roster and encourage you to visit with her via her website as well as your favorite social media channels, including Facebook, Twitter, or Instagram. Throughout the next year, we will share more from her and any new details when we can about Word Like Honey, so stay tuned by signing up for our monthly newsletter! Welcome Neena!