We are excited to connect with Timi Bliss.
Hi Timi, tell us about you and what inspired you to write “The Magic in Me“?
I’m an author, digital illustrator, and publisher of diverse children’s books who’s passionate about the important role books play in informing a child’s sense of identity, self-worth, and belonging. Like mirrors and windows, it’s essential for children to see themselves reflected in the pages of books and to see into the experiences of others unlike themselves. So, I was thrilled when I See Me! reached out to me to work on publishing “The Magic in Me.”
Tell us about the story of “The Magic in Me”… What can parents/kids expect?
Well, it’s not written in a story format, but rather in different scenes that celebrate all the ways a child is unique in their looks, lives, and abilities, and why we can appreciate the differences in others. What makes the book special is it’s personalized for each child with their name, skin tone, hair color, hairstyle, eye color, and more!
What do you love about the Twin Cities? Why is this a great community for parents to enjoy reading your story?
The Twin Cities is home to an eclectic mix of cultures and communities, so there are abundant opportunities to engage with diverse people and experiences. It wouldn’t be difficult to tie the content in “The Magic in Me” directly to people, places, and activities in our community. The beauty of our differences is all around us.
What is the best way for the Minnesota Parent community to support your business?
The best way to support my work is for parents to seek out and encourage their children to seek out diversity in their lives. Certainly, support can come from purchasing my books and telling others about them, but authentic real-world connectedness is most important to me.
What’s been your greatest joy in seeing your story being read?
The greatest joy for me seeing my story being read is seeing on a child’s face that something within those pages captivates and resonates with them. I hope that long into their future, they recall that story time with fondness and appreciation.
How does your book inspire kids and parents?
The book’s overall message is to show kindness, respect, and appreciation for everyone’s differences. It’s a beautiful way for children to learn about diversity and inclusion.
Diversity promotes critical thinking and improves creativity. It fosters a culture of acceptance and respect. It enhances self-awareness as we learn from people who are different from us. Get out there and experience all the diversity the world has to offer.
Tell us about you! Your family, why you love being a parent. What brings you joy?
I have a close-knit family of four children born and raised in south Minneapolis, and I am a caregiver grandma to a sweet six-year-old granddaughter, Charlie, who is the star in my books. Spending time with my family is the ultimate joy in my life!
Tell us about your favorite places to go with your family? Restaurants, road trips, parks, etc.
Charlie and I love going to the movies and eating buttered popcorn. We recently took a trek to Lark Toys for a day of mini golf and carousel rides. She loves going to any one of the many parks in the city for endless playground and splash pad fun. I recently enrolled her in gymnastics at Minneapolis Gymnastics and am impressed with her vertical rope climbing skills. And sleepovers…boy oh boy, do we love making special treats to eat, building forts, playing games, watching movies into the wee hours of the night, and then waking up late the following day with her friends!
Connect with Timi!
Email: info@timibliss.com
Website: https://www.timibliss.com/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/timiblissauthor/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/timiblissauthor/
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCbt9boptVdekzPKpN9PxG6Q
