An Interview with Cindy Kate Wills
Hi, I’m Cindy Kate Wills. I wrote and illustrated Cookie Math. I am originally from Norfolk, Virginia. I have always loved to draw and added watercolor painting during the pandemic. I now live out of the country with my husband and we love traveling together, although really hate flying! I speak English and Spanish, and work as an interpreter. Writing and illustrating a children’s book was something that I thought about doing but didn’t think I would ever be able to do. Now, I want to see what my next project will be. Hopefully, something incorporates English and Spanish so that all of my friends and family can read and enjoy.
What inspired you to start writing this book?
I originally wrote this book as gift for my parents. We spend a lot of time reminiscing about life with my three sisters and I. And we love laughing together, usually with food involved. I wanted to surprise them with something that captured that spirit.
Tell us the story of your book’s current title. Was it easy to find, or did it take forever?
The title came from the last few words of the main character, Nyla. I didn’t really have a title until I had gotten toward the end of the manuscript. Although it doesn’t seem like it took a long time, if you factor in the writing and rewrite and revisions, I guess it didn’t come about quickly.
Describe your dream book cover.
I really like the cover. The main character and a feisty little lady that is sneaking a look at her mom’s cookies. I remember us doing that when my mom was baking. We knew we had to wait until we were given the ok. So, I wanted the cover to capture that. Plus, Nyla is based on my little sister, so I want her reddish brown puffs and big eyes on the cover!
If your book had a soundtrack, what are some songs that would be on it?
That’s a great question! I have never thought about it. I have such a mix of music genres that I love! But, if we are going to put a little of everything in it, “Candy Girl” from New Edition, “Before I Let Go,” for the scene with everyone in the living room ( for my parents) There is a scene where the girls are asleep in their room and I love the thought of a really calm song. While Nyla is counting cookies, jumping over a fence, there’s a sweet song called “Everyday” from George, from a K-drama. When she runs downstairs to breakfast the next day, “Running” by Pharrell. When the counting of the cookies start, “ABC” by the Jackson Five. Or “Work That” by Mary J. Blige. Oh, and “Dynamite” by BTS when the mystery is solved.
What books are you reading (for research or comfort) as you continue the writing process?
I am reading a lot a children’s books to get an idea of what my next project will be. Right now, though, I am comfort reading too. I’m going through the Little House series!
What other professions have you worked in? What’s something about you that your readers wouldn’t know?
I am a Spanish/English interpreter and translator. I have also loved doing proofreading. I am shy about putting myself out in the world, so for a very long time, my friends had no idea that I draw and paint.
Who/what made you want to write? Was there a particular person, or particular writers/works/art forms that influenced you?
Like I mentioned, my initial goal was to write a story as a gift. My sisters and my niece have always been my biggest fans. So has my husband. I love cartoon drawings. I really love Raymond Briggs’ style. It’s like a realistic cartoon. I love all of the details he added to his pictures! For instance, Ernest and Ethel is such a treat for the eyes. There’s much to discover in every single drawing!
Where is your favorite place to write?
Honestly, my dining room table. I usually have something playing in the background, like the older Little House series, or Star Trek, or my Spotify mix. I have watched them so many times that it’s really just background noise. My husband and I love going to coffee houses too. I also carry my journal with me just in case I have an idea out of the blue that I don’t want to forget.
What advice would you give your past self at the start of your writing journey?
Just get started. Do worry too much about whether everyone will like it. You will be proud of yourself in the end. Those who love and support you will love it.
What’s one thing you hope sticks with readers after they finish your book?
This was a project that came out of the love and support of the people around me. That love sticks with you, whether it helps you learn to add and subtract (with cookies) or it helps you to write and illustrate a book. You never forget it or what it helps you to accomplish.
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