Rising Stars: Meet Caitlynne Garland

Today we’d like to introduce you to Caitlynne Garland.

Hi Caitlynne, so excited to have you on the platform. So, before we get into questions about your work life, maybe you can bring our readers up to speed on your story and how you got to where you are today.
I have harbored a lifelong love of books and animals. I was born and raised in Georgia, and I’m Appalachian State Alumni. My original plan in life was to become a veterinarian, but most plans tend to change. I worked as a veterinary nurse for a little over 10 years during which time I transplanted to Raleigh, North Carolina. In 2016 I co-founded Dog-Eared Books (a discount used bookstore), and I started my book-writing journey in 2019 with River the Three-Legged Dog. 

River, the Three-Legged Dog, is a story of inclusion that she feels the world needs to hear. Her second picture book, Milo the Brave, was published in 2021 and touches on dealing with anxiety. Down to the River, a fun story about kayaking, and The Truth About Squirrels, a goofy nonsense story, were both published in the Fall of 2022. The Hike, published in March of 2023, promotes going outside and enjoying nature. 

I plan to continue writing picture books in the hopes of sharing meaningful, uplifting, inspiring, and often goofy messages to children (and adults) all over the world. I live in Raleigh with my husband Cameron and our three dogs, River, Rory, and Milo. 

Would you say it’s been a smooth road, and if not, what are some of the biggest challenges you’ve faced along the way?
I can’t complain too much; the book-writing process has always been fun. My one piece of advice for anyone, anywhere, writing anything: Read, re-read, have others read, spell check, put it away for a month, and then read it again. The first edition of my very first book (River the Three-Legged Dog) was published with my first name misspelled on the cover. Yikes! 

Thanks – so, what else should our readers know about your work and what you’re currently focused on?
I primarily write children’s picture books though I would like to write to an older crowd in the future. I am most proud of my most recent book, The Hike. It was my first book written in a rhyming scheme. I also wrote from personal experience, having spent a great many hours in the woods with my dogs. It is both a great story and very fun to read aloud. 

Are there any books, apps, podcasts, or blogs that help you do your best?
I LOVE to read. I highly recommend everyone find their local used bookstore. They are typically locally owned, and they are helping keep books out of the landfill. I also listen to a fair number of audiobooks. Libro.fm and Libby are two apps I use frequently to listen. Libro.fm is similar to Audible in all ways except one; they support local bookstores when you make a purchase. Libby is a free app that connects your local library to your device. You can rent e-books and audiobooks through the Libby app. 

There are so many great picture books out there, and I still enjoy reading new ones. My favorite author at the moment is Chris Van Dusen; he writes and illustrates his books. They are a blast to read. I also enjoy the Mother Bruce series of picture books. Who doesn’t love a grumpy bear because forced to care for a gaggle of goslings?! 

Pricing:

• River the Three-Legged Dog $10
• The Hike $10
• Milo the Brave $10
• Down to the River $10
• The Truth About Squirrels $10

Contact Info:

• Website: www.caitlynnegarland.com
• Instagram: https://www.caitlynnegarland.com/s/instagram
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/cgarlandauthor

Image Credits
Cameron Honour
Jon Klassen
Stephen Minervino
Yana Gorbatiyk
Marian Gorin