On May 19, 2009, MCA Founder Tara Paterson talked with Bonnie Wayne, a 2009 Mom’s Choice Awards® honoree. We are reformatting and republishing this interview as part of our Alumni Spotlight.

This week I interviewed author Bonnie A. Wayne. Bonnie writes concept books for children which include Counting with Bella and Finny, Shapes with Bella and Finny, Colors with Bella and Finny, and Opposites with Bella and Finny. Her Adventures of Bella and Finny Series won a 2009 Mom’s Choice Award (Silver Recipient, Illustrated Series).

Bonnie resides in Clifton Park, NY and has been married to her wonderful husband, Tom for 30 years. They have two beautiful daughters Tiffany Wayne and Taryn Wayne Shelton, a son-in-law, Scott Shelton, and the stars of her books, Bella and Finny. I asked Bonnie some questions about her series of books and the inspiration behind them. Here’s what she said.

Tara: What was the inspiration for your books?
Bonnie: My love for children and to make learning fun through humorous photographs of Bella and Finny, my standard poodles.

Tara: One thing I know about children, they love animals! When did you first come up with your idea?
Bonnie: The very first time I thought about it was in 2004. The first book went on sale just two years later, in January 2006.

Tara: It is amazing how quickly ideas can manifest into reality. How fantastic! Did you have an “aha” moment? Was it inspired by something you were doing, someplace you were visiting, or maybe a person in your life?
Bonnie: My “aha” came while I was lying in bed one morning. I was thinking what can I do with these funny pictures of my dogs? The more I thought, the more I kept coming back to the idea of turning them into a learning tool for children! So I decided that Bella and Finny could offer a new approach to teaching basic concepts!

Tara: Who is your greatest source of support, and why?
Bonnie: My faith. I ascribe to the tenet that “Everything is possible for him who believes.” I also have support form my family. Their belief in me and their constant love and encouragement.

Tara: If you could offer one piece of advice to someone who is thinking of venturing into this line of work, what would it be?
Bonnie: You must be passionately in love with what you do and the rest will follow.

Tara: I couldn’t agree more. Passion definitely brings out the most creative inspiration and gives it the energy to continue even after you’ve moved onto something else. What has it meant to you personally or to the success of your product to have been honored with a Mom’s Choice Award®?
Bonnie: It has been a validation of all my work. I am so honored and humbled. I look forward to all the possibilities that this award will bring.

Tara: We are honored you feel this validates your work. You are the real validation of your work through your efforts and faith. We just acknowledge your accomplishments. What are your future plans; what’s next for you as an author or teacher?
Bonnie: I want to bring The Adventures of Bella and Finny Series to mainstream publishing along with all the marketing possibilities.

Tara: Bonnie, I wish you continued success with your book series’ and look forward to our interview at Book Expo America (BEA) in June 2009.

Mom’s Choice Awards® Honors

The Adventures of Bella and Finny Series
2009, Silver Recipient, Illustrated Series
Colors with Bella and Finny
Counting with Bella and Finny
Opposites with Bella and Finny
Shapes with Bella and Finny