Q&A: Teacher-Turned Writer In Vienna Plans Upcoming Book Release

VIENNA, VA — As a teacher, it was natural for Leah Moser to have a passion for using picture books in lessons. Now that the Vienna resident has turned to writing full time, she is preparing for the launch of her own picture book.

“I am a Thundercloud” will be published on April 2, 2024. The book focuses on how children can cope with emotions, especially anger. Visualizations like thunderclouds and the sun help tell the story in a way children can understand.

Moser is working with Vienna bookstore Bards Alley to offer book pre-orders. She is also preparing to launch picture book editing services for aspiring authors later in the fall.

Tell me about yourself and why you decided to write a book.

Before writing full-time, I taught preschool special education, second, and third grade in Arlington, VA. I found myself drawn to picture books and enjoyed integrating them into my lessons.

While receiving my Master’s Degree in Elementary Education from George Washington University, I took a class called Children’s Literature. As a capstone project, we each wrote our own picture book. The writing process resonated deeply with me, and my picture book received a top prize in the class.

I immediately joined an organization called SCBWI (The Society of Children’s Book Writers and Illustrators), attended writing conferences, and joined several critique groups with local authors. I knew I had a knack for writing, but I also learned how to edit and elevate other authors’ work. Later this fall, I will be launching my own freelance picture book editing services (more info below!)

Outside writing, I live here in the wonderful town of Vienna with my husband, three daughters, and dog.

Instagram and Twitter/X: @leahmoserwrites
Web: www.leahmoserwrites.com
Email: leahmoserwrites@gmail.com

What is the book about, and how did you choose the topic?

My picture book is titled I am a Thundercloud, illustrated by Marie Hermansson. It centers on anger – a big feeling that is sometimes challenging for a child (or adult) to handle.

As a writer, my primary focus is around Social-Emotional Learning (SEL) topics. Picture books can be incredibly powerful tools to reflect children’s authentic experience, to express themselves in new ways, and to navigate the world around them. I am a Thundercloud checks these boxes.

How do you feel this is a book that can help children better understand emotions they may be feeling?

This book shows children that feeling like an angry thundercloud is part of being human. We all get angry! Sometimes we want to BOOM, ROAR, CRASH, and CRACKLE to those around us. I am a Thundercloud introduces simple strategies to help children refocus and reset.

What kind of work does it take to prepare and publish a picture book?

My journey to publishing has not been easy.

After I had several completed stories, I submitted my work to agents and publishers. I connected with Daniel Cramer of Page Turner Literary Agency, who championed my stories to larger publishing houses. Finally, I got a YES from Running Press Kids, a Hachette imprint.

For those outside of the writing world, traditionally publishing a book takes a long time! Running Press Kids offered me a contract in December 2021, I signed the contract in April 2022, my book was officially announced in July 2022, and it will be released in April 2024.

I am a Thundercloud has gone through major edits – from the first draft to its final version. It is important to accept suggestions willingly and confidently. Taking this feedback and revising my work allow this manuscript to soar to new heights. I appreciate my critique partners, agent, and editor for their collaborative efforts on this book.

As previously mentioned, I am launching a picture book editing service later this fall. I will work closely with authors to provide valuable feedback. This service will be helpful to those who want to self-publish or elevate their own manuscripts to become submission-ready. Interested? Check it out: www.leahmoserwrites.com/editing-services

How did you get to work with Bard’s Alley?

Bard’s Alley is one of my favorite places in Vienna! They support local authors and host community events. Online stores like Amazon are easy and convenient, but I prefer working with local, independent bookstores whenever possible. I am fortunate that Bard’s Alley will be at my book launch celebration selling copies of I am a Thundercloud when it is released.

What do you like about living in Vienna? Do you have any favorite places or businesses?

Vienna has small-town charm and is a wonderful place to raise a family. The people who live here are supportive and welcoming; I’m always in awe of the community’s generosity.

As a family, we enjoy town events on the green like Chillin’ on Church. We love visiting Meadowlark Botanical Gardens and observing the seasonal changes. We attend summer concerts at Wolftrap and play on the red caboose. Some family favorites are the Sandwich Shop, Caboose Brewing Company, Rita’s, Bruster’s, and Bazins on Church (where I will be having my book launch celebration!)

If you are a local author publishing a book, email Emily.Leayman@patch.com to inquire about a feature article.