Many years ago, when my children were little, I used to tell them a story before going to sleep. Over time, more than 20 original stories accumulated, and my children did not stop asking for stories every night. At one point, it occurred to me to start recording the stories. This way, my children could listen to them at night.
One day, my daughter suggested that I write a book with the stories. So, I began writing based on the recordings. I sent these stories to several publishing houses to see if there would be interest in publishing them. Unfortunately, only one responded, stating that the stories were good and entertaining but recommending that I take a writing course due to their perceived poor quality.
Disheartened, I initially abandoned the project. However, fate intervened several years later, presenting me with the opportunity to take a course at the Institute of Children's Literature in Connecticut, from which I graduated.
These stories, and many more, will now be published and shared through Amazon's KDP Program. Each one brings back pleasant memories, and it's heartwarming to listen to the recordings featuring the comments and laughter of my children, Maru and Fran.
UPDATE
"Now that I've finished the first twenty illustrated stories, I am now working on a series of books on other topics. The first one is called 'The Art of Valuing,' where we explore antiques, art, classic cars, and other valuation guides. Then, I will start a series on cooking and other themes."