I’ve made this series to highlight women who are starting out. They have created something out of  nothing, following those whispers and are moving forward with bringing their dreams to life.  I believe in the power of sharing our stories, supporting and lifting each other up.  There is enough for everyone to be successful, in what ever way feels right for them.

 

I N T R O D U C I N G

Susan, a Primary School teacher with over 25 years experience that includes teaching in the classroom and stocking the school library with a diverse range of books that even the most reluctant reader will like.

Susan has created On the Kids Bookshelf, a service that recommends and reviews beautiful children’s books to help you choose the right book for the kids in your life. At the end of each book review she suggests insightful, teachable tips.

T H E   Q U E S T I O N S

1. Would you share a little about yourself and what lead you to starting On the Kids Bookshelf?

Thanks for this wonderful opportunity to share a little about my journey and the things that inspire me. Can I also add a thank-you to Jude at Fairy Wren Cottage for supporting other women to be empowered and follow their passion.

I’m an educator with lots of classroom experience and a passion for teaching children.  I’m also a mum to three beautiful children and two gorgeous grandsons.

I’ve had the opportunity in my career to work with some of our more disadvantaged youngsters and seen the difference that connecting with them can make. Being passionate about books and getting the right book into children’s hands can be the difference between a lifelong love of reading or simply hating it.

I love reading and promoting a wide range of books for all interests and hopefully hooking kids on to the joy of reading.

2. Favourite time of the day?

I love daybreak and sunset, bookending the day!  They are both magnificent, particularly if I can be out in the garden or nature. But I do see more sunsets than sunrises!

3. Life is full of distractions, what keeps you focused?

I think like most people, if I’m loving what I’m doing I find it easy to stay on task and complete things.  But if I am procrastinating or putting something off then the house is usually very clean and the chocolate cupboard empty!

4. What has surprised you?

I’m always surprised that people follow me, they comment sometimes and like my reviews.  There is overwhelmingly a real generosity of spirit and kindness.  I feel like I’ve gotten to know some people in the online environment; I guess I could pass them in the street and we wouldn’t recognise each other.  I’m also surprised by how much there is to learn about the platforms, some of Instagram’s processes have me perplexed!

5. One piece of advice you would like to pass on to someone starting out?

Don’t be afraid to put yourself out there.  Just get started, even if you are not sure where it will lead you. Believe in yourself.  You will get some things wrong, you’ll get some things right – learn from every step and keep moving forward.  I started out with goals to achieve each month and ‘to do’ lists.  I still have them but have quickly learnt some of these were unreasonable and to slow down and enjoy the ride! Sorry, I think that’s more than one piece of advice!!

Follow Susan on her Instagram account @onthekidsbookshelf