Xlibris Publishing is proud to introduce Shivi Darubra, author of The Little Blue Elephant.
The Little Blue Elephant is my first self-published children’s picture book. It focuses on a little elephant named Ellie who learns how to be a good friend to her pals Roo and Leo as they undergo self-esteem issues. This book is part of a project I am working on to raise awareness on children’s mental health and remove the stigma.
Mental health is a topic that is very close to me. Having witnessed personal loved ones’ experience severe cases of mental illness, I wanted to help them and make sense of what was happening rather than witness them be medicated and isolated.
The brain is the most understudied, yet most important part of the human body. Its function relies on the reactions of billions of chemical compounds that make up our thought process, personality and feelings. All key aspects that make up who we are and what we do.
As a child’s development is crucial, it is important for them to recognize and understand how to lead healthy and happy lives by making sense of their emotions and actions. Being blue is just as important as being happy as long as they are given the support they need to change and grow from it.
This book took me 10 months to write. My approach was to utilize the “addressing the elephant in the room” metaphor to create Ellie the elephant. Moreover, elephants are known for having unforgettable memories and represent wisdom, longevity and togetherness. Mental health is stigmatized and I wanted to make it easy for children to recognize a wise and lovable animal like Ellie to relate to.
What is the one message you would like to convey to your readers?
Children are the future and it is our responsibility as educators and parents to recognize the signals of how they are feeling. Development leads to habit and if children receive the support to become more emotionally-engaged with themselves, they will lead happy lives and foster healthier relationships with others.
Are you working on a sequel to your book?
The Little Blue Elephant is part of a series of books I am writing. I have already started my second book and it will be more focused on the brain development at an elementary level. Plus, it is fun to read and rhymes!
Are there any events, marketing ideas or promotions planned for your book?
Social media is our greatest gift. I am utilizing social media to its fullest to convey the message of spreading awareness of children’s mental health. So far, the response is great.
What was your favorite part of your publishing experience, overall and with Xlibris?
I absolutely loved my experience with Xlibris. Everyone that has helped in this process has been so thorough and organized. They understood my vision by laying out what I wanted the book to look like and recognized the importance of this subject for me. They were able to provide helpful suggestions throughout the process and ensured to follow-up with me regularly. I liked the structure with Xlibris and highly recommend their services.
Finally, what advice would you give to aspiring authors?
If you have a message you want to convey, or if you have a story to tell. Just do it! Your words can help inspire another person and help them come to terms with how they are feeling or thinking. Writing is a gift and I think it is important to share that gift with everyone – because you never know whose life you have touched with your words.
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