The "Accidental Author": Randi Woodward Larsen's Journey to 'Moonlight and Wishes' and the Unexpected Path to Publication
Every aspiring children's book author dreams of holding their published work in their hands. But what if that dream wasn't something you chased for years, but rather a beautiful, unexpected journey that began with a story demanding to be told?
Meet Randi Woodward Larsen, the delightful new author of Moonlight and Wishes, whose path to publication is as enchanting as her book. Randi’s story is a powerful reminder that authorship doesn't always begin with a lifelong ambition, but sometimes with a deep-seated inspiration and the courage to say "yes" when the right opportunity appears.
The Seed of Inspiration: Where Stories Take Root
For Randi, the seeds of Moonlight and Wishes were planted decades ago, in a place synonymous with imagination: Disneyland. "When I was in my 20s, I tour-guided at Disneyland for eight years," Randi shares. "I watched Magic Kingdom come alive through the eyes of children and parents... The imagination that lives there is amazing."
This early exposure to the pure wonder of childhood imagination clearly left a lasting impression. Years later, wanting to reconnect with that magic, Randi became a professional storyteller of the oral tradition. She wove tales of folk, fairy, myths, and legends, teaching at local junior colleges and witnessing "the magic of story come alive" in the eyes of her audiences, from children to grandparents.
It was during this rich period of immersing herself in stories and their power that something truly remarkable happened. "This story just kind of downloaded in my heart," Randi recalls. "It isn't like, 'I'd like to write a book.' It was just like, bam, the whole plot line was there, and it was so powerful to me."
For Your Own Writing: Embrace Unexpected Inspiration. Randi's journey teaches us that the muse doesn't always knock politely. Sometimes, a story simply arrives, born from your unique life experiences and passions. Don't limit where your inspiration can come from – it might be a childhood memory, a conversation, or even a deep-seated emotion. Be open to those powerful "downloads" and see where they lead!
From Heart to Page: Recognizing a Timeless Tale
Even with a fully formed plot line, Randi initially "never thought she was ever going to do anything with it," simply writing it down. Yet, the story's inherent timelessness resonated deeply with her. As she put it, "People wish upon stars, it doesn't matter the generation... I just felt like it was a timeless story."
This internal conviction about her story's universal appeal would soon find its opportunity.
For Your Own Writing: Trust Your Gut About Your Story's Enduring Appeal. If a story feels timeless to you, chances are it will resonate with others. Themes like hope, imagination, dreams, and wishes are universal threads that connect generations. Focusing on these core human experiences can give your children's book lasting power.
The Turning Point: Discovering a Path to Publication
The "accidental author" began her conscious journey to publication when she saw an invitation that truly changed everything. In December 2023, Randi joined our Children's Book Masterclass.
"I loved all the information that was given," she shares, highlighting the comprehensive foundation provided by the masterclass. This initial step proved crucial, giving her the tools and confidence to consider truly bringing Moonlight and Wishes to life.
Following the masterclass, Randi took the next transformative step, joining our Publishing Mastermind. This is where her story truly began its metamorphosis!
For Your Own Writing: Seek Structured Guidance. While inspiration is key, turning a raw story into a publishable book often requires structured learning and a supportive community. Programs like our Masterclass and Mastermind Group provide the knowledge, accountability, and framework to navigate the complex world of children's book publishing. We're here to help you every step of the way!
The Power of Perspective: Refining the Story with Expert Editorial Support
One of the most pivotal moments in Randi's journey came through working with our expert editorial team, specifically Sharon Jennings, her story editor.
"Sharon Jennings was amazing how she took the story," Randi recounts. "First of all, she changed my voice. I was telling it from the storyteller voice. She's like, 'No, Randi, it really needs to come from the child's voice. You need to have this adventure through his eyes.'"
This seemingly subtle shift was profoundly impactful, allowing young readers to truly step into the world of Moonlight and Wishes through a child's eyes.
For Your Own Writing: Embrace Professional Feedback. An objective, experienced eye can elevate your manuscript beyond what you thought possible. Be open to constructive criticism, especially regarding elements like narrative voice and perspective. Our editors are trained to see your story's full potential and guide you to unlock it. Just like Randi, you'll be amazed at the transformation!
Conquering the "Technical Stuff": Your Publishing Partner Makes the Difference
No author's journey is without its hurdles. For Randi, one significant challenge wasn't creative, but technical. "The tough part was the technical stuff. 'Link here'? Okay, well, how do you make a link? I mean, I'm older, and that's not in my DNA."
This candid admission highlights a common fear for many new authors: the daunting technicalities of publishing. But Randi quickly learned that she didn't have to tackle it alone. "Working with your team has been magical. They grounded me, all of them," she affirms.
For Your Own Writing: Don't Let Technical Hurdles Stop You. You don't need to be a tech guru to publish a book! A supportive publishing partner can handle the complexities of formatting, publishing, and distribution. As Randi discovered, it's about being willing to learn and leveraging expert support. You can do it!
Want to hear more directly from Randi about her journey? You can watch her full book launch interview here!
The Unwavering Support System: A Journey Shared is a Joyful Journey
Perhaps the most heartfelt takeaway from Randi's experience is the profound impact of her support system. "My coach, Lori Parks, is the most supportive human being I've ever met my entire life," Randi gushes. It was Lori who suggested the beautiful touch of a wishing star on every page of Moonlight and Wishes and inspired the decision to donate a portion of proceeds to the Make-A-Wish Foundation.
"I’m used to being the lone ranger," Randi admits, "but my cohorts, my group [from the Mastermind], your team, my friends, my fiancée, my daughter – people just came around me and said, 'Let's do this.' And it just made it so much more joyful."
Randi's experience underscores that the publishing journey, often perceived as solitary, can be a profoundly collaborative and joyous one. "It was fluid and joyous," she says, a testament to the power of community.
For Your Own Writing: Build Your Community and Accept Support. You absolutely don't have to go it alone! Engage with fellow aspiring authors, join author groups (like our Mastermind), and lean on your personal network. A strong support system, including a dedicated coach, can provide encouragement, accountability, and turn potential struggles into shared triumphs. This collaborative spirit is something we passionately foster within our programs.
The Ultimate Reward: Living in Gratitude and Sharing Your Gift
Today, Randi Woodward Larsen is a published children's book author, a title she's still getting used to, but one she proudly embraces. "It just feels so good to say yes," she beams.
For Randi, the best part isn't just seeing her book in print, but "the being in that creative space, making it happen." She lives "in gratitude," a place she describes as "freedom."
Moonlight and Wishes is more than just a story; it's a vehicle for Randi's core message: "I just hope that people will believe in their dreams. My book is about hope, imagination, and belief. And that's something we all need to have in major quantities."
For Your Own Writing: Focus on Your "Why" and Embrace the Process. What message do you want to share with the world? Holding onto that core purpose will fuel you through the entire journey. And remember, the joy isn't just in the destination, but in the creative process and the incredible community you build along the way.
Randi's journey reminds us that the path to becoming an author can be unexpected, filled with learning, and incredibly rewarding. If you have a story in your heart waiting to be told, just like Randi did, we are here to provide the masterclass, the mastermind community, the editorial guidance, the technical support, and the coaching to help you bring your unique gift to the world.
Ready to start your own publishing adventure? Explore our Children's Book Masterclass and Publishing Mastermind Group today!
And don't forget to watch Randi's inspiring book launch interview to hear even more about her amazing experience!