Spotlight: Bella Ballerina 

Silvina Timpanaro developed a love of reading and writing from an early age. She believes that education, positive role models, hard work, and promoting the arts are crucial components to creating a better world in which children’s healthy development, friendship, and kindness prevail. These are the values she brings to her debut children’s book, Bella Ballerina. To celebrate her new release, we sat down to chat about the publishing process.

MIRIAM LAUNDRY: Hi Silvina! Congratulations on publishing your first children’s book. Can you tell us who this book is for and a bit about how you started writing it?

SILVINA TIMPANARO: Bella Ballerina is for children aged four to 11 years old. The idea for my book was born when my daughter started taking ballet classes, approximately ten years ago, but the actual writing process began in July 2022, almost a year ago.

ML: What inspired you to become an author?

ST: I grew up reading and writing since an early age. Reading used to transport me to many different places and was an opportunity to somewhat experience the characters’ adventures. Writing was my outlet to handle my feelings, fears, and needs, and at the same time it was a way to dream about what the future could bring. Being an author allows me to share with children anywhere in the world that the possibilities are endless, to keep them company with my story, and to help them to believe in themselves regardless of their present circumstances.

ML: Why was the message in this book important for you to share?

ST: I want children to understand that learning any new skills takes time, dedication, patience, and that at times it can be hard. I also want to emphasize with my book that the learning process is an opportunity to practice how and when to ask for help, and to develop strong bonds/friendships by working with others. The main message is that we are all capable of reaching any goal with work and dedication.

ML: That is such a wonderful message. I’m sure that as you worked on this book, you faced learning experiences of your own. What did you learn as you published?

ST: I struggled with allowing Bella, my book’s main character, to find her voice and to tell the story from her perspective, rather than mine. It was an overall powerful and a humbling experience. Initially, I had this story in mind and after each edit it kept on evolving, and becoming more child focused. I loved working with the editor, Sharon, and I really appreciate all her dedication. I learned to accept feedback without being hard on myself, and to enjoy the journey, rather than only focusing on the final goal. 

ML: What was the most memorable moment during this process?

ST: I read the book to a co-worker that has been part of my book journey, and as I was close to the end she started crying. I got really confused and I asked her why? She said, it’s a beautiful story, and we should all read more children's books.

ML: She’s right. I think all adults should read children’s books, too! Through Publishing Mastermind, you got to connect with other authors who had the same goal: to publish their book. Why did you decide to join the program? What was so valuable about it?

ST: I joined Publishing Mastermind because I really enjoyed the first class and believed in your message, and the team. I felt a sense of trust that I had not felt before. The most valuable part was having the peace of mind that I have a whole team behind my dream and an amazing personal coach, Shelia, who has guided me, supported me, and answered all of my concerns and questions. From you to every person on your team, you are beyond professional, knowledgeable, efficient, and caring. Your team really works hard with the author to produce a valuable and unique book. 

ML: I will definitely pass those kind words on to the team! I’m so glad we could help you see this dream come true. If you could share one piece of advice with an aspiring author, what would you tell them?

ST: Be kind to yourself and celebrate every step, no matter how small it is, every inch is getting you closer to sharing your message with the world. 

ML: And before we sign off, what do you hope parents and children take away from Bella Ballerina? 

ST: I hope that everyone that reads my book considers the opportunity to give themselves a chance, to have fun learning new things, meeting people, making new friends and to know that you are not alone regardless of the circumstances. Keep on dancing no matter what.

ML: That is beautiful, Silvina. Thank you, and congratulations again on publishing your first children’s book.

Watch the Full Interview:

You can learn more about Silvina and pick up your eBook, Paperback or Hardcover copy of Bella Ballerina on Amazon.com, Amazon.ca, or your local Amazon Marketplace.