Backyard Adventures to Published Pages: My Children’s Nature Book Journey

As I sit amidst the lush greenery of my garden, I’m reminded of a powerful message from Saint Mother Teresa: “Do small things with great love.” It’s this philosophy that has guided me through life’s twists and turns and now, into the realm of authorship, particularly in creating children’s nature books.

Daisy Hill Croft

I’m on a mission to share the wonders of our Earth through the eyes of a child. My upcoming children’s book series, Backyard Detectives, Inc., is more than just a collection of stories; it’s witness to the small yet significant moments that shape our connection with nature.

The Editor’s Wisdom: Turning Critique into Craft

The journey of my first book, Backyard Detectives, Inc. Mystery on the Sidewalk, began with a spark—an urge to preserve the cherished nature adventures I shared with our son Alec. These stories, rooted in reality, blossomed in our very own backyard, capturing moments both true and precious.

However, the path to publication is rarely straightforward. My initial manuscript, which I believed was destined for bestseller status, faced its first hurdle: an editor’s critique. This feedback, though initially disheartening, became the catalyst for transformation. The editor’s insights were like a lighthouse guiding me through a sea of self-doubt, illuminating the changes needed to resonate with young readers and nature enthusiasts alike.

The Family That Crafts Together

My family’s involvement in this literary endeavor has been nothing short of foundational. Alec, with his youthful insight, named the secret character that adds a touch of mystery to the narrative. The illustrations, envisioned to be serene and only colored when the story demands, were inspired by his desire for tranquility in storytelling.

Jerry, my husband, has been the bedrock of support—emotionally and financially. His unwavering belief in this project has been a source of strength. Publishing this book is as much his achievement as it is mine, for it’s a journey we embarked on together, hand in hand.

Navigating the Publishing Maze

Embarking on the publishing route is akin to navigating a labyrinth—complex and often overwhelming. Despite the sting of the initial editorial feedback and the mountain of rejections from traditional publishers, my resolve never wavered. The complexities of legalities, formatting, marketing, and the daunting financial investments were formidable foes, yet they did not deter me.

I am a nurse by profession, but the recent years have seen me don many hats: an author, a marketing strategist, and an entrepreneur. The learning curve was steep, filled with extensive research on self-publishing and countless drafts. Finally, in 2024, I took the plunge to publish the book on my terms.

A Community of Support

No author is an island, and my journey gives credence to the power of community. A myriad of professionals, family, and friends have poured their expertise and love into this book. While it’s impossible to name everyone, I must express my deepest gratitude to those who have been pillars of support.

To Jerry and Alec, who have patiently read and re-read each iteration of the manuscript; to Becky Nussbaum-Hutchins, my cousin whose creative flair brought the book’s formatting to life; to the Saint Paris Library, Sue Martin, and Nichole Hungerford for their invaluable literary guidance; and to John Fox of Bookfox, the editor whose expertise transformed my narrative and turned me into a British mouse—my heartfelt thanks.

A Call to the Heart of Nature

As I stand on the threshold of sharing Backyard Detectives, Inc. Mystery on the Sidewalk with the world, I am filled with a sense of purpose and hope. This book is more than just a story; it’s a call to action—a gentle nudge to encourage children and adults alike to step outside, to explore, to protect, and to fall in love with the world around us.

Through the pages of this book, I invite you to join me in your own backyard, where every day is an adventure, and every moment is an opportunity to gain experience and grow. Together, let’s nurture a generation of nature detectives, young minds eager to uncover the mysteries and marvels of our planet.

Join the Adventure

Visit my website often to discover a treasure trove of educational resources, activities, and updates on the Backyard Detectives, Inc. series. Let’s embark on this journey together, fostering a love for nature that transcends the pages of a book and blossoms into a lifelong passion.

With Great Love

In the spirit of Saint Mother Teresa’s wisdom, I extend my heartfelt gratitude to each of you—for your support, your encouragement, and your belief in this dream. It is my sincerest wish that these small things I do, crafted with great love, will ripple outwards, touching hearts and inspiring change.

Thank you for being a part of this journey. Together, let’s make the world a better place, one small step at a time.