Life and Work with Megan Mears

Today we’d like to introduce you to Megan Mears.

So, before we jump into specific questions about what you do, why don’t you give us some details about you and your story.
I have always loved reading and anything to do with language. I started my career as a speech therapist and have since moved into audiology and cochlear implants. My favorite clients are children who are learning how to listen and speak, and I enjoy using books as resources and therapy tools.

One of my favorite hobbies is baking. I like trying out new recipes, and more recently became interested in baking for specific diets (gluten-free, keto, diabetic, etc.). A few years ago, I read an article about how food allergy shaming was becoming a new form of bullying, and I wanted to do something to help educate children. I decided to write this book to show that lots of kids have food allergies, and the allergies can be managed through some creative baking. This is my first published book, and I wrote it in hopes that children both with and without food allergies would enjoy it.

We’re always bombarded by how great it is to pursue your passion, etc. – but we’ve spoken with enough people to know that it’s not always easy. Overall, would you say things have been easy for you?
There were two things that were a little difficult on this journey. The first was finding a publisher to work with me. There were lots of rejection letters and agents who didn’t think my book was what they were looking for. It took a while to finally find the right fit, but I feel like the perseverance paid off. The second thing was time management. Working through the writing, submitting to publishers, choosing illustrators, reviewing proofs, and then all the marketing takes a lot of time. The book is still my hobby in addition to my full-time job, but it’s important to me so I make it a priority. I definitely recommend being passionate about taking on a large project because it takes a lot of time but the payoff is wonderful!

Please tell us more about your work, what you are currently focused on and most proud of.
Joanna Banana is my first and only children’s book. It focuses on children with food allergies and finding creative ways to bake the foods they want to eat. I wrote the book in rhyming format and it has beautiful color pictures for both preschool listeners and early readers.

Who have you been inspired by?
I am lucky to have a life filled with inspirational women. I admire the women in my family for their commitment to kindness and generosity, as well as their intelligence and willingness to work hard. I have looked up to many of my teachers and coaches through the years because of the many things they introduced me to like science, literature, and team sports. I am inspired by women around the world who have convictions and the courage to act on them. Taking action is key to spurring change that will inspire others.

Pricing:

• Joanna Banana book is $14.95 on www.mascotbooks.com
• Also available on Amazon.com

Contact Info:

• Website: https://mascotbooks.com/mascot-marketplace/buy-books/childrens/picture-books/joanna-banana/
• Email: Mears.MeganL@gmail.com
• Instagram: joanna.banana.book
• Facebook: joanna.banana.book
• Twitter: @BookJoanna

Image Credit:
book illustrations by Walter Policelli

Suggest a story: VoyageDenver is built on recommendations from the community; it’s how we uncover hidden gems, so if you or someone you know deserves recognition please let us know here.