When the Red Bird Flies a Children's Book by Courtney Reames Haydell Book Tour with Guest Post, Author Interview and giveaway
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Synopsis (from Amazon):
George
and Murphy are two brothers who share everything - toys, secrets, and
especially the love for their sweet grandmother. But one day, she goes to
Heaven, and the brothers miss her a lot.
Then,
something amazing happens. Bright red birds start showing up wherever they go.
These aren't just any birds; they seem special. Following these birds, George
and Murphy go on a big adventure. Along the way, they learn that these birds
have messages from their grandmother!
The
story of When the Red Bird Flies is like a big, warm hug. It tells us that even
when someone we love goes away, they're still with us in different ways.
Sometimes, they might send signs to let us know they're watching over us. All
we have to do is pay attention and believe.
So, join
George and Murphy as they learn about love, memories, and the magical ways the
world tells us that we're never truly alone. With every chirp and flutter of
the red bird's wings, they find a little more happiness and remember all the
fun times they had with their grandmother.
Excerpt
On a cold night in November, a loving grandmother had gained
her heavenly wings—this left all her family in tears but especially George.
George said “How will we go on without her? I will miss her so terribly much,
Mommy.” His parents told him that he would never be alone, that his grandmother
may have left but she is still here—right here. “You can feel her, but you
can’t see her. If we believe enough and ask her to send us signs to let us know
she is watching over us, she will do just that—always look for the signs when
you need them most.”
Shortly after his grandmother’s passing, George celebrated
his seventh birthday. His parents tucked him into bed on the evening of his
birthday. As his mom closed his door, she whispered: “Close your eyes and make
a wish.” So, he did—he wished for his grandmother to send him a sign to let him
know she is still with him.
Guest Post
Hi, I am Courtney Reames Haydell, author of When the Red Bird Flies. I wrote my book through personal
experience. I lost my beautiful parents,
my two boys’ grandparents within four years. This took a huge hit on myself as
a new mother and on my two sons as we are learning to navigate life without
them. When the Red Bird Flies takes place anywhere there is the grieving
heart of a child missing someone they love.
I take great joy in being able to help other parents help their children
cope with great loss.
This is my first book.
It has had many vulnerable moments to say the least. It’s like putting your personal diary out
into the world for everyone to read and judge. It can also be very liberating
as well. The smiles and hugs from
friends and strangers make me happy and so fulfilled when they tell you how
much your story has helped them, their children, and their grandchildren, and
they cannot recommend your book enough to all they know.
A little behind the scenes of When the Red Bird Flies: My
son, Maxwell (11 years old) wrote the journaling questions in the back of the
book. He wanted other kids to be able to
write their feelings and by doing so, it would help them stay close to the
person or people they are missing. This
was a proud moment for me as a mother and for Maxwell. Getting to see how much
his questions are helping other kids has brought him tremendous joy.
This book really is a big warm hug. I am just so proud of it. When
the Red Bird Flies has brought my family many smiles and loads of comfort.
Interview
On
writing:
How did you do research for your book?
My book is written through a personal
experience.
Which was the hardest character to write? The easiest?
George since he was affected the most by his
grandmother’s passing.
Murphy, the same emotions but not as much
since he was so young when it happened.
Where do you get inspiration for your stories?
My Father gave me the inspiration and
knowledge to write this book.
There are many books out there about teaching children about death. What makes yours different?
Mine is different I feel because it is more
relatable. Meaning, you can see the Red Birds.
What advice would you give budding writers?
Follow your heart and write.
Where is your book set? Have you ever been there?
My book is meant to be set anywhere with a
family with grieving children. Yes, I
live it every day.
If you could put yourself as a character in your book, who would you be?
I am the mom in the book.
Do you have another profession besides writing?
I am a stay-at-home mom to my boys. I volunteer with their school and become
their driver to different sport practices and games.
How long have you been writing?
I’ve always journaled, but as a writer- I’d
say, 2 years.
Do you ever get writer’s block? What helps you overcome it?
I did not with this one but I am sure I will
for hopefully my next one.
What is your next project?
To write another book to continue to help
parents with grieving children.
What genre do you write?
Children, I would have to say for the moment.
What is the last great book you’ve read?
I love the Virgin
River series.
What is a favorite compliment you have received on your writing?
My favorite compliment thus far would be that
my book has really helped children and grieving parents because it is something
they can all relate to.
How are you similar to or different from your lead character?
I am George’s mother so we are very similar
although I will say, he is much braver than me.
If your book were made into a movie, who would star in the leading roles?
I wish!!
Lead Roles:
Mom-Rachel McAdams or Tiffani Theissen
Dad- Martin Henderson
Not sure for George and Murphy
If your book were made into a movie, what songs would be on the soundtrack?
“To Know Me” by Lauren Daigle
“Red Bird” by HunterGirl
“Wings” by Birdy
“Life Goes On” by Ed Sheeran
What were the biggest rewards and challenges with writing your book?
Biggest Reward was to see my five siblings
read it, cry and be so proud of me and of it.
Not many challenges.
In one word, what was the road to publishing like?
Exciting!
What is one piece of advice you would give to an aspiring author?
To go for it!
Which authors inspired you to write?
Judy Blume
What is something you had to cut from your book that you wish you could have kept?
I would have talked about God and Heaven more.
On
rituals:
Do you snack while writing? Favorite snack?
Yes, anything salty
Where do you write?
A ranch right outside of Austin, TX.
Do you write every day?
I journal everyday
What is your writing schedule?
It varies on my boys’ schedules
Is there a specific ritualistic thing you do during your writing time?
I pray
In today’s tech savvy world, most writers use a computer or laptop. Have you ever written parts of your book on paper?
I write all of mine on paper. Writing is very therapeutic for me.
If you’re a mom writer, how do you balance your time?
Kids first, writing second
Fun stuff:
If you could go back in time, where would you go?
To my childhood. I had the best, most loving childhood. I am the youngest of six so it was always
fun!
Favorite travel spot?
The mountains are my favorite!
Favorite dessert?
King Cake- I am originally from Louisiana
If you were stuck on a deserted island, which 3 books would you want with you?
Virgin
River, Firefly Lane, The Four Winds
What’s the most courageous thing you’ve ever done?
Ask my Mom if she was scared to die (when it
was nearing) and also write this book.
Any hobbies? or Name a quirky thing about yourself.
My hobbies today are my boys and quirky, I
hate to be bare footed.
If there is one thing you want readers to remember about you, what would it be?
That life is so short, live it and love it.
What TV series are you currently binge watching?
I love all Bravo!
What is your favorite thing to do in the winter?
Spend time with my family and friends and root
for the Houston Texans and Houston Astros
What is your favorite holiday?
Christmas will always be my favorite. I love
the magic and the music.
What song is currently playing on a loop in your head?
“Legends” by Kelsea Ballerini
What is your go-to breakfast item?
Biscuit and Hash Browns
What is the oldest item of clothing you own?
My mothers cardigan
Tell us about your longest friendship.
I have friends that have been with me since we
were born. We’ve been through it all together.
Growing up, getting married, kids, losing our parents.
What is the strangest way you’ve become friends with someone?
I met my friend Liz at our sons’ swimming
lessons and have been the best of friends since.
Who was your childhood celebrity crush?
Luke Perry- Beverly Hills 90210
Courtney
Reames Haydell, born to Bonnie Carville Reames and
Michael Wilks Reames, is the youngest among six siblings. Hailing from a small town in Louisiana, she’s
an author deeply rooted in familial ties and the wonder of nature. Drawing inspiration from her own experiences
and surroundings, her stories often touch upon themes of love, loss and
healing. Courtney currently resides in
Texas, where she finds joy in the company of her husband and two sons. Through her writing, she hopes to touch young
hearts, helping them navigate through life’s profound moments.
Author
Marketing Experts:
Twitter: @Bookgal
Instagram: @therealbookgal
Amazon: https://amzn.to/48IaXgh
Goodreads:
https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/203611917-when-the-red-bird-flies
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