An Interview with Megan Duggan

Megan Duggan is a freelance writer and lifelong storyteller. Bix’s Balloons is her first children’s book, written to help readers connect with their emotions and cultivate deeper friendships. Based in Colorado, she shares her adventures with her husband, their son, and their two spirited rescue pups.

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What inspired you to start writing this book?

I was inspired to create a book that gives kids a fun and accessible way to reflect on and verbalize their feelings. As a parent, it’s a book I was looking for. I wanted to create something that would be fun to read but also offer a helpful conversation starter for adults and kids. The inspiration for the main character came from our own dog, Busy! Joana, the illustrator, did an amazing job capturing Busy’s expressions and likeness! I thought the idea of a small dog with all of these balloons would be a fun and engaging visual.

Tell us the story of your book’s current title. Was it easy to find, or did it take forever?

It felt very natural to title it Bix’s Balloons! I love alliteration and I wanted it to be something fun to say out loud.

Describe your dream book cover.

I love book covers that feel original and draw you in with tons of colors and unique visuals!

If your book had a soundtrack, what are some songs that would be on it?

This is such a tough one! It would have songs that cover the full spectrum of emotion, but some that I think apply could include Three Little Birds by Bob Marley, Happy by Pharrell Williams, and Float On by Modest Mouse.

What books are you reading (for research or comfort) as you continue the writing process?

I always have at least a few books going! Currently on my list is Project Hail Mary (I wanted to see what the hype is about) and The Alchemist by Paulo Coelho (I always come back to this for inspiration).

What other professions have you worked in? What’s something about you that your readers wouldn’t know?

My professional career includes roles in corporate communications and marketing — I’ve always been a writer at heart. I’ve worked in many different industries, from organ and tissue donation to mortgages and insurance. I find that while the topics vary widely, the skillset required to tell a good story remains the same, no matter what industry you’re in.

Who/what made you want to write? Was there a particular person, or particular writers/works/art forms that influenced you?

I started writing stories in first and second grade, drawn to the imaginative pull of the page. I created my own neighborhood newspaper (complete with weather reports!), and loved spending time reading and writing. Some of my favorite writers when I was younger include Beverly Cleary and EB White. I was always drawn to stories with animals as the main character. Now, I get to share those books with my son and it is so special.

Where is your favorite place to write?

My family laughs because I need quiet, uninterrupted space to write. I’m not a coffee shop writer! I usually sit in my office with a cup of coffee and the window open. No music, no distractions. I need a lot of quiet time with my own thoughts. Sometimes even writing outside on my porch is too challenging for me — I need my specific desk and setup in order to get in the writing flow.

What advice would you give your past self at the start of your writing journey?

Don’t box yourself in! If I could tell myself ten years ago that I’d be a published author, I might not have believed it. Even though I write for work, publishing a children’s book seemed like a faraway dream. I think you can surprise yourself if you don’t close the door on your ambitions.

What’s one thing you hope sticks with readers after they finish your book?

I hope it’s the idea that feelings are present, valid, and okay to share. I want to inspire deeper conversations about emotions and navigating the challenges that we all face, no matter our age.

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Are you a writer, too? Submit your manuscript to Atmosphere Press.