Becky Walker Books

Author’s name: Dina M. Hardt

Illustrator’s name:   Ellie Erhart

Other book titles:   This is my debut book.

What is your upcoming book title?   Catch of the Day

Date of release: Tuesday, September 8, 2026

Preorder or Order link:    https://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/catch-of-the-day-dina-m-hardt/1149302475?ean=9781636989945

Publisher: Morgan James Publishing

Hometown:  West Haven, CT (Westie Proud). My husband and I moved our family a town over to Orange, CT where we have been for the last 11 years. 

Social links: 

• Instagram- @dinamhardt.author  
• TikTok- @dinamhardt   
• Website- www.dinamhardt.com 
• Facebook: Dina M. Hardt

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

Anthony loves to fish! His grandpa taught him all the best secrets. But now, Anthony is fishing on his own for the very first time. Spending the afternoon on the dock as the sun begins to set, he remembers Grandpa’s lessons about patience, perseverance, and having faith in what can’t always be seen. 

When the fishing line tugs, Anthony’s heart races. Is this the moment he’s been waiting for? Can he reel in his very own catch of the day? 

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

1. Catch of the Day was written over 20 years ago, and the story was inspired by a photo taken on vacation of my brother Anthony fishing in Murrells Inlet, SC. After Anthony’s passing in April 2024, I returned to the story, which helped me grieve, reminding me that, just as the Grandpa in the story, Anthony is still with me every step of the way. 
2. This story celebrates the big moment when a child finally does something brave all on their own, while still holding close to the lessons of those who guided them there. 
3. Perfect as a read-aloud for children ages 6-9 or independent reading for older kids, this story fits beautifully in both classrooms and homes. As a fourth-grade teacher, I see it as a great tool for shared reading and deep discussion. For parents, it’s a gentle bedtime tale that reassures children they are never truly alone, and that love is always within reach. 
4. My illustrator, Ellie Erhart, did an amazing job! She used traditional and digital art. Ellie created all the sketches and linework digitally, but the gorgeous backgrounds were all watercolor on paper. She told me that sunsets are really fun to paint with watercolors and recommended it to any child who likes art and wants to try making similar art themself. 

Readers can find free book resources on my website www.dinamhardt.com

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

Writing– What do writers do? Writers write. They write from the heart. Writers write about small moments, not just the big ones. They notice the world around them and, instead of just letting it pass by, write about what they see and experience. I have learned it is always best to carry a journal with you or be prepared to open the notes app on your phone, because you will never know when a story idea will hit. I want readers and young writers to be encouraged to write from a single moment in their lives. To learn that the world around them can stir stories. 

Publishing– Like a marathon, publishing takes time. Enjoy it! Take pictures of yourself at work to document the journey along the way. Then, you will have something to look back on and be very proud of. 

Promoting– Start early, before your book is even out. Set up a website and social media connections. Don’t be afraid to put yourself out there.

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

1. At 4’10”, I am tiny, but mighty! Most of my fourth-grade students are taller than me by the end of the year. 
2. Being Italian gave me wonderful traditions that I now continue with my family. Sunday dinners are one of them, with Sunday sauce, and yes, it is sauce, not gravy, in my family. 
3. Growing up, I was a hockey sister and then became a hockey mom. My son played ice hockey, and my daughter played field hockey. Go NY Rangers!
4. My family goes blue crabbing every summer. We catch, wash, and freeze the blue crabs for our Christmas Eve dinner as part of the seven fishes tradition. 
5. I hold a minor in Theater and have performed in local and off-off-Broadway productions; I tell my students that the classroom is my stage.

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

 I learned a lot! I learned that I am allowed to call myself a writer and author and that the writing community is welcoming. From writing your story to working with your editor and illustrator, marketing, and everything in between, publishing a book is hard work, but it is also a huge accomplishment. I am proud of myself for taking the leap! I couldn’t be happier that I trusted the moment when it presented itself.

• Bluesky