How kidsbooksbykids™ came to be
Justin drawing Joey at the end of the first grade, 2021.
During a conversation with his mother, Justin asked how he could earn some money. His mother started listing off different ideas she thought was appropriate for a first grader. When she got to the idea of writing a book, Justin enthusiastically stopped her and squealed, "I want to write a book!" And that is how it all began.
A few days later sitting with his mom on their deck, they discussed how to write a book. His mom asked if he had any ideas about a story. Justin said he knew exactly what the title was going to be. His mom was surprised and said that was fine to start with a title first. He said it just came to him, "Joey Plays Basketball." That first day he had his title, the beginning and the ending of the story.
That summer Justin and his family went on some road trips. While his dad drove, he and his mom sat in the backseat working on his story. He would dictate his story to his mom. After he had his first draft, friends offered some suggestions for his plot development. By the end of summer, he had his story completed.
Justin was excited to draw illustrations for his book. He drew some great pictures, but the process was becoming frustrating for him. His mom suggested hiring an illustrator since most authors do not draw their own illustrations. Although, Justin was determined to do it himself, he decided after a few months that wasn't a bad idea after all.
Justin spent some time choosing the style and type of illustrations he thought would represent his characters best. With his own money, he had his mom hire Rajib Mondal to be his illustrator.
In the meanwhile, his mother researched how to publish Justin's book and forthcoming series. Justin's parents decided to start Magnified Light Publishing.
Justin began talking about creating a writing and book club he could do with other kids. He thought it would be fun to encourage others to write their own books and to talk about the books they are reading. His parents thought that was a great idea and this was how KidsBooksByKids.com was born!
Just over one year later - book in hand! August 2022
