Becky Walker Books

Author’s name: Alison McGauley

Illustrator’s name: Emilie Leduc

What is your upcoming book title? Kenzie’s Little Tree

Date of release: March 11, 2025

Preorder or Order link:   

Bookshop: https://bookshop.org/p/books/kenzie-s-little-tree-alison-mcgauley/21575610?ean=9781459837911&next=t

Barnes & Noble: https://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/kenzies-little-tree-alison-mcgauley/1145912211

Amazon: https://www.amazon.com/dp/1459837916/

Publisher: Orca Book Publishers

Agent: Jake Babad and Briar Heckman

Agency: Westwood Creative Artists

Hometown: Ontario, Canada

Social links: 

Instagram @alisonmcgauley

Facebook @AuthorAlisonMcGauley

BSky @alisonmcgauley.bsky.social 

1. What is the premise/pitch for your book?

When Kenzie picks out a small tree for her family’s backyard, she promises to take care of it. It seems delicate, just like her mom, who doesn’t always feel well. As the seasons change, her mom’s health has ups and downs, and the tree sways in the wind and weather. Sometimes her mom is too tired to play, and they just cuddle. Other times, she has to go to the hospital. During the winter, she’s away for many days. When a snowstorm hits, Kenzie frantically tries to keep the tree warm. And she worries: Has she broken her promise? But no matter the challenges, come springtime, the tree is still there, blossoming and strong―just like her mom, and just like Kenzie.

2. What are 5 things you want people to know about your book?

1. Kenzie’s Little Tree is special for my family as it is based on our lived experiences.
2. Before I drafted the story, I interviewed my daughters to gain their perspectives, memories, and feelings about having a mom with chronic illness.
3. Kenzie’s Little Tree makes a great read aloud for classrooms and families. You can find a Family Discussion Guide and Teacher Guide on my website, alisonmcgauley.com
4. Though Kenzie’s Little Tree features a parent with chronic illness, this book also supports kids who are navigating difficult experiences and includes moments of family fun and joy.
5. Kenzie’s Little Tree is my debut picture book and the publication process has been a dream come true! 

3. What helpful hints or tips can you offer fellow writers about writing, publishing, and promoting a book?

1. Stay organized! Keep a digital folder for each manuscript and save your versions as you revise. Keep a folder for marketing plus a calendar that is devoted to writing related tasks and events.
2. Make a list of positives or things you are grateful for to read on tough days.
3. Don’t be discouraged by a rough first draft. Be excited that you have a manuscript to polish!  
4. Have critique partners and writing friends who understand!
5. Be a life-long learner by taking courses, watching webinars, and reading mentor texts.

4. What are 5 fun/quirky facts about yourself as an adult or child?

1. I’m often found singing to myself and I enjoy inventing silly songs!
2. I had my big toenails permanently removed. Yes, it was horrible!
3. I love Ragdoll cats and have seriously considered running a cattery.
4. Growing up, I played piano and flute. 
5. I’m Canadian but dislike both hockey and beer.

5. What did you learn about yourself while on the journey to publishing this book?

While I wrote Kenzie’s Little Tree, I spent a lot of time thinking about the impact that chronic illness has had on my life and family. This was a very personal journey. Throughout the process, I learned that I have grown into a resilient person! I also realized that this skill of resiliency is helpful in many areas of life, like coping with illness, parenting, and dealing with the highs and lows of the publishing world.  

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• Bluesky