Tara Atkins, after writing many poems and short stories over the years, started this book as a thank you to the sparkly lady, who adopted Nevis. It has become Tara’s first published children’s book, which was truly a creation of love! Tara enjoys her time with her husband, three dogs and kitty, grown children, and family and friends.
Q: What inspired the idea behind your book?
A: The inspiration for my book is a puppy we rescued from the island of Nevis. The story was actually a thank-you to my in-laws for taking us on this wonderful vacation.
Q: As an author, what tips would you give anyone who wants to get into writing?
A: Write about something close to your heart, something you know about or love doing.
Q: What is your favorite book?
A: When I was younger, I loved reading Nancy Drew books by Carolyn Keene (Mildred Wirt Benson). I still love reading mysteries by a range of writers.
Q: Was your main character modeled after anyone in your life?
A: Yes! The puppy is modeled after the real-life dog Nevis, whom we rescued. She is fourteen years old now.
Q: What is your favorite part of the writing process?
A: I believe the best part of the writing process is the excitement you feel when you come up with an idea and get your creative juices flowing. But I also love when you first share your idea with someone and they love it as much as you do.
Q: Do you believe that being a “good writer” is a developed skill or a natural talent?
A: I feel I’m more of a storyteller, and yes, I feel it’s a natural talent. But becoming a writer can be learned.
Q: Do you have a favorite book, poem, TV, or movie quote?
A: From Winnie the Pooh, which was a favorite of my oldest child: “You are braver than you believe, stronger than you seem, and smarter than you think!”
Q: Would you write another book (or are you already writing another book)?
A: I think I would write another book if it were something relatable or if you could learn something from it. I feel this book is about adoption and rescue. I also feel it touches on why animals should be neutered.
Q: Is there an author you look up to, and why?
A: Not really; I like to read lots of different styles and authors.\
Q: If there were an apocalypse and you could only take five books into your doomsday bunker, what would they be?
A:
- Winnie the Pooh by A. A. Milne
- Alice’s Adventures in Wonderland by Lewis Carroll
- The Four Agreements by Don Miguel Ruiz
- The Let Them Theory by Mel Robbins
- A joke book
Learn more about Tara Atkins and her new children's book, Found: A Potcake Puppy Story, here. Coming soon March 24, 2026!