Lee Ann Mancini, an award winning children’s book author whose books have just been released as an animated series. I’m excited to share about her journey as an author.
What inspired you to write children’s books?
I wrote some of the stories 20 years ago when my children were young. I wanted them to see the biblical principles I was teaching them in a tangible way.
When did you write/publish your first book?
2014 – Fast Freddy
What makes the Sea Kids series unique?
All the stories are based upon various circumstances young children find themselves in or faced with. Bullying, shyness, bragging, fear, death, etc. The characters pray to Jesus, asking for help and giving thanks. They also show children what to do instead of showing them what not to do. The stories teach children how to have compassion, love, humility, obedience, honesty, and forgiveness (characteristics of Jesus).
Tell us how you found your illustrator.
It took me two years to find him. I found him on the internet, and he is a strong Christian man – It was God’s plan.
What led to turning your book series into a television series?
I was at the National Religious Broadcasting Convention (asking God why I was there as I was the only table selling Christian children’s books and stood out in my bright yellow and blue booth amongst a sea of green, grey, and black podcast, tv, and radio booths). Up walked a man who loved what he saw and asked if I would be interested in having the series produced in animation. I said I wish I had a nickel for every time someone asked me if the books would be available in DVDs. From there, our producer contacted Right Now Media and Trinity Religious Broadcasting and signed the agreements with both!
What’s been the greatest challenge of going from books to animated television series?
Learning about a new industry and how it works!
What advice would you offer other authors wanting to turn their books into a television series?
Just pray! If it is God’s will, He will provide! Also, be patient and make sure you are working with a reputable, godly company.
Where will Sea Kids be available for viewing?
Right Now Media, Trinity Religious Broadcasting, and will be available for purchase online at SeaKidsTV.com, GLMPublishing.net, Christian bookstores, and Amazon Prime.
Do you have any new projects in the works?
Yes, I am writing a parent’s guide on how to raise their children to have a strong foundation in Jesus. The advice will address before birth, after birth, and into elementary school age. Before birth/infancy, parents will be taught how to prepare the soil to be rich and fertile in order to plant seeds to grow deep roots. As parents, grandparents, extended family members, ministry leaders, and teachers, each of us are called to teach, guide, and instruct the next generation. I am not an expert in the field of children’s spirituality, but I have been exhaustive in my research to bring forth the best information from experts in the field of children’s spirituality.