February 28, 2025

 

Meet the Author: Deborah C. Washington and Her Poetic Dedication

At Purple Diamond Press, we love spotlighting the amazing authors who bring heartfelt and inspiring stories to young readers. Today, we’re thrilled to introduce Deborah C. Washington, a talented children's author whose book highlights environmental balloon safety and her dedication and love for her grandchildren. Washington's motivation behind her storytelling.

What inspired you to write your children’s book?

One day my young grandson came to me and said, "Grammy, Grammy, I saw a fish in a tree." I said, "A fish in a tree, how can that be?" My husband, knowing I like to write, said, "That sounds like a story." When I found out the fish was a balloon, it was even more reason to write this book.

What is the main message or lesson you hope children will take away from your book?

To teach children that purposely releasing balloons is littering and a danger to the wildlife and our earth. To motivate children to be respectful of our planet.

What was your favorite part of the book-writing process?

I loved that my grandson inspired the book. I can't draw and when my illustrator sent me his illustrations, it was like Christmas morning opening a present and seeing my book come to life.

Can you share a personal experience or memory that influenced your journey as an author?

Writing has always been a part of my life. My first "success" was in 4th grade when I won a writing contest. Since then, it is just something I thoroughly enjoy--from children's books, short stories, essays, poems and inspirational devotions.

What do you love most about writing for children?

I love being able to share with children, especially my seven grandchildren.
Gareth Gets a Job Book by C.M. Harris - Front Cover
Gareth Gets a Job Book by C.M. Harris - Front Cover
Gareth Gets a Job Book by C.M. Harris - Sample Page
Gareth Gets a Job Book by C.M. Harris - Side View of the book

Gareth Gets A Job

$13.00

Follow Gareth’s Tail-Wagging Quest to Find the Perfect Job!

Inspired by a real-life service dog!

Meet Gareth, a determined and lovable dog on a mission to find the perfect job! In Gareth Gets a Job by C.M. Harris, readers follow Gareth’s action-packed journey as he explores exciting roles like police dog, guard dog, and even service dog. Along the way, Gareth learns valuable lessons about perseverance, resilience, and finding your true calling.

This delightful story is perfect for teaching kids about careers, determination, and embracing challenges with a positive attitude. With vibrant illustrations and an uplifting message, Gareth Gets a Job will inspire young readers to chase their dreams and overcome obstacles.

Perfect for storytime or as a gift, this hardcover edition brings Gareth’s adventures to life in a way that will entertain and educate children of all ages. Join Gareth on his quest and discover the joy of working hard to achieve your goals!
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I Am The Author T-Shirt for Women & Men

$21.50
Let it be known! Yes, I AM THE AUTHOR. This t-shirt is everything you've dreamed of and more. It feels soft and lightweight, with the right amount of stretch. It's comfortable and flattering for all.

• 100% combed and ring-spun cotton (Heather colors contain polyester)
• Fabric weight: 4.2 oz./yd.² (142 g/m²)
• Pre-shrunk fabric
• Side-seamed construction
• Shoulder-to-shoulder taping
• Blank product sourced from Nicaragua, Mexico, Honduras, or the US

This product is made especially for you as soon as you place an order, which is why it takes us a bit longer to deliver it to you. Making products on demand instead of in bulk helps reduce overproduction, so thank you for making thoughtful purchasing decisions!
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5 Star reviews

What Our Readers  Are Saying

Perfectly Written

"I love this story! The rhyming pulls the story together in an amazing way. The illustrations are so colorful and cute. Well done!!"

Amazon Customer

Engaging Children's Book

I was fortunate enough to go to a book signing and purchase the book autographed for my friend's 2 year old daughter.She sat on my lap while I read it to her, although she was 2 she still was very engaged by the cantor of the story and the beautiful illustrations. As she was getting buckled into her car seat she got very animated and wanted the book to read on the ride home. 💜

Amazon Customer

Great Book!

"A nice addition to your child's book case; for younger children! Enjoy!"

Amazon Customer

Who are some of your favorite children's authors or books, and why?

Mo Willems, David Cunliffe, Shel Silverstein, Denise Brennan-Nelson. I like books that adults can enjoy while reading over and over again to children.

If you could have a conversation with one of your book's characters, who would it be and why?

I would be interested in knowing how Wren not only became concerned about the earth but also what motivated her to try and do something about it.

What are some of your favorite hobbies or activities when you're not writing?

I like spending time with family, going to the ocean, trying new recipes, attending local theater productions, being involved with my church and playing the piano.

What has been the most rewarding moment since publishing your book?

Of course, I love sharing it with my grandchildren, but the most rewarding moment was when I was relaxing at our local swimming pond and a boy came up to me and said, "Didn't you write, "A Fish in a Tree"?" I felt like a celebrity.

What do you hope parents, teachers, or caregivers will appreciate most about your book?

I hope that this book will help them communicate to children about the environment. I hope they will enjoy reading it in rhyme and enjoy the colorful illustrations. It's important for adults to enjoy the book too.

Deborah C. Washington’s passion for storytelling is truly inspiring, and we can’t wait to see more of her impactful stories come to life. Stay tuned for more author spotlights, and if you haven’t yet, be sure to check out Deborah's book to share with the young readers in your life!
 

Be sure to grab your fishy copy of A Fish In A Tree & follow the author, Deborah on Instagram
 


Website: Here
Instagram: Here
Amazon Purchase: Here

A FISH IN A TREE? HOW COULD THAT BE!
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