See what I did there? I said first. 😉 But for real, now that The Happy Crab is written, and illustrated, and being printed onto paper pages as we speak (AAAHHH!), I reeeeeally want to keep myself (and Kevin!) motivated about creating a book #2!
Believe it or not, my favorite part of the process was working with the artist (Guy Wolek) on the illustrations. I always thought I wanted to be a cartoonist when I was a kid, and still have a passion for all-things art, so it thrilled my heart to see our (true) story come to life in that way. Steevenson really got into it too. Once the book comes out (on October 12th), I’ll share another post about all the little things he suggested that actually made their way in (or out of) the book. He’s such a creative kiddo!
The Happy Crab is available for pre-order on Amazon now (it’ll be available in bookstores at other retailers in October too) and we’re already dreaming up lots of fun, giveaway/marketing-related ideas for the week it’s released. Some of which include free, downloadable coloring pages, the perfect playlist to take to the beach, and a beautiful beach bag full of our favorite summer goodies. We’re planning to chat and read the story live on Instagram the week it comes out too!
I never would have guessed that our trip to the beach (in the middle of March of 2020) would not only mark the beginning of a VERY strange and challenging year, but also introduce us to a crab that would change our life forever!!
Which reminds me, here’s what the book is about if you’re curious about what’s inside the cover:
Happy is an adventurous little crab whose world is suddenly turned upside down (literally!) when a mama and her son discover his large, unbroken shell while on vacation at the beach. After deciding to keep the shell as a souvenir, the boy unexpectedly feels the crab move inside and is suddenly faced with a decision: take him home or let him go. His compassion for the crab and thoughtful decision to release him gently reminds readers of the importance of selflessness and highlights how our environment, relationships, and experiences contribute greatly to our happiness.
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The Happy Crab is based on a true story experienced by Kevin, Layla, and their son, Steevenson, and you can see a video of the actual shell and crab at TheLetteredCottage.net/TheHappyCrab.
Thanks in advance for celebrating with us! I’ll share another update when I have a copy in my hands. We’re expecting them back from the printer in September. (Squeeeee!) Steevenson is SO excited to read one aloud to his class this year, and I gotta say, that will most certainly go down in history as one of my most favorite experiences ever, too!
Here’s to a good week!
Layla