Today we're excited to chat with Deborah Hunt, author of The One-Eyed Pug. Read on for more about Deborah and her book!

Meet Deborah Hunt!

 

 

Deborah Hunt is a doctorally prepared nursing professor who lives in New York with her family. Her constant companion is Chewy, a Boston Terrier. Deborah has published multiple nursing articles, and two nursing textbooks. She is passionate about her nursing role, and enjoys teaching, and mentoring students. Her other passion is fiction writing, especially for children. This passion began in grade school when she was working on a fictional writing project with her best friend Regina. Working on this project awakened her creative mind, and sparked a life-long interest, and she knew that one day she would become a published writer. Throughout the years Deborah’s life was very busy with her family, raising her children, her nursing career, and continuing her academic education. However, she always found time to write, completed several online writing classes, and read everything she could about writing for children. Deborah is an avid reader and loves to take long walks on the beach. She also enjoys painting, cooking, traveling, dancing, and spending time with her family and friends.

 

Waldorf Publishing is signed with BookMasters, INC. for distribution and sales in the United States, Canada, and World. Their books are available through BookMasters, INC., Baker & Taylor, Ingram, and select titles through Follett. They are signed with The Susan Schulman Agency out of New York City for Foreign Rights translations/sales and Audio Rights. They also currently work with Scott Schwimer, Hollywood Entertainment Attorney and representative for author Nicholas Sparks.

 

Meet The One-Eyed Pug!

 

 

1.) What gave you the inspiration to write this book?

This book was based on a true story that highlights the lives and experiences of my lovely little pug and precocious Boston terrier. The events that took place in the lives of both of these puppies were at times emotional and at other times uplifting. I felt it was important to share the many feelings puppies and their families experience when they are adopted or get injured. Of course, I did take author's privilege when describing the thoughts and feelings of the puppies.

2.) Who is your favorite character in the book?

The little pug and Chewy are both my favorite however, if I have to select one I choose the little pug.

3.) Which came first, the title or the book?

The title came first. Once I formulate an idea for a story I immediately think of the title which I rarely change.

4.) What scene in the book are you most proud of, and why?

The scene where the little pug wakes up from surgery and finds out her eye is missing and at first she gets upset but as soon as the doctor tells her mommy and the rest of the family is coming she is happy and excited to be going home with her family. I am most proud of this scene because I share her thoughts and it shows that although the pug had to have a serious operation she is fine and will be going home to her forever family who loves her unconditionally.

5.) Thinking way back to the beginning, what’s the most important thing you've learned as a writer from then to now?

I think the most important thing I learned was that your original idea may end up being quite different than what you envision. Initially, I wrote this story as a picture book and although some publishers were interested in the story they all gave me similar advice. The story was too complex to be a picture book but not long enough to be a chapter book.

6.) What do you like most about the cover of the book?

I love how simplistic it is and that it depicts both puppies so accurately. The illustrator did a wonderful job on the cover and the other illustrations in this book.

7.) What’s up next for you?

My picture book entitled "Same Inside Different Outside" is being released by Waldorf Publishers on September 15, 2017. It's so thrilling to have two children's books being released so close to one another.

I am always writing and continue to submit manuscripts. I am also working on the next book in "The One Eyed Pug" series.

I also have another chapter book which to me several years to write. However, I have been advised that due to the complexity of this story it should really be a middle grade book.

8.) Which was the most difficult or emotional scene to narrate?

The most difficult and emotional scene for me to write was when the pug and her family learn that she will need to have an operation on her eye and that they may actually lose her eye. Since this happened in real life it was painful to relive it and I remember I cried when I wrote it.

9.) Which part of the writing process do you enjoy more: Drafting or Revising?

I love the drafting part the best because I feel it's when I can be the most creative and just let my thoughts flow freely. The revising part is much more difficult for me however, I am getting better and do realize how vital it is to the success of my books.

10.) Is there an organization or cause that is close to your heart?

Yes, I have many but these are some of the ones the closest to my heart: The Bideawee Home, Pug Rescue, ASPCA, New Beginnings Animal Rescue, St. Jude Children's Research Hospital, the Society of Children's Book Writers and Illustrators, and the American Heart Association.