I’ve been wanting to interview my co-author, Lauren Reyes-Grange.
But how do you do that when she is your daughter, as well as the person who inspired the first Myrtle the Purple Turtle book?
I decided to put on my professional interviewer’s hat — after all, I’d done thousands of interviews in my journalistic work. Here goes:
When did you first realize you loved to tell stories?
LRG: I can’t remember a time when I didn’t love to read stories, write stories or tell stories. I am fairly certain I was born with a wild imagination. Pair that with two parents who were superstar journalists (and naturally fantastic storytellers), and I think I was bound to catch the bug, too.
What was it like growing up in a house of storytellers and writers?
LRG: It was wonderful. I loved hearing stories about my parents’ work, about their day. My parents also encouraged my sister and me to read, be curious, stand up to injustice, and look for the humour in everyday things which I believe makes for great storytelling.
Do you remember any of the stories you first wrote?
LRG: Yes. One of the first stories I wrote was about a bird who, after overcoming some obstacles, learns how to fly.
A story your mother wrote for you when you were nearly five, was published many years later and became an immediate bestseller. What was that like for you?
LRG: Pretty emotional in all the best ways possible. Myrtle the Purple Turtle was a lifesaver for me when I was going through a tough time at school. Myrtle’s story made me feel proud, confident and strong. I feel very lucky that 28 years later we were able to share this gift with children who may need a reminder that they should be proud of what makes them different/unique.
You are now the co- author of the Myrtle series, and you are the one who comes up with the new story ideas. Where do your ideas come from?
LRG: After visiting numerous schools and speaking with children of all ages, it’s clear that messages of inclusion, kindness and friendship are still very much needed. This is what’s inspired us to continue writing more books and has made the ideation process relatively simple.
How did you react the first time you saw your name on a book cover?
LRG: Incredibly proud. I still can’t believe I’m an author. I also feel very fortunate that I get to collaborate with my mum on this. It’s made the entire experience even more meaningful for me.
Why are the messages in the Myrtle books so special to you – and what do you hope children will get from the books?
LRG: The messages in Myrtle’s books are how I was raised. I hope the Myrtle series inspires children to act with kindness, to make their peers feel included, to be a good friend and to embrace their own differences.
What are your hopes for the series?
LRG: I hope we continue writing books! At least 1-2 books every year for as long as there’s an audience who wants to read them. I would love to speak with even more children and continue to inspire young people to act with kindness and self-esteem.
Your own daughter is due to be born soon. Can we assume you will be reading the Myrtle books to her when she gets old enough?
LRG: Absolutely. I’ve already started reading the books to her, but she likely doesn’t know that yet. I hope she falls in love with Myrtle’s message and is as proud of me as I am of my mum.
Cynthia Reyes 
This is a lovely and inspiring conversation. What a brilliant and professional duo you make with your daughter!
I’m sure it has been a wonderful experience working along side your daughter. I’ll be looking forward to your future books.
Good interview. You haven’t lost your knack.
What a lovely daughter you have Cynthia. Her thoughts and responses show what a kind person she is!
Thank you! 😊
Two writers : mother and daughter . The heritage continues, Cynthia
Love ❤
Michel
Such a lovely interview. I was pleased to read these words from Lauren, ‘The messages in Myrtle’s books are how I was raised.’, because I feel very strongly that the Myrtle series come from the heart of a loving family. That comes through in every page, as I read.
Quite wonderful
Beautiful interview, beautiful Mom and daughter, Cynthia! And what a lucky soon-t0-arrive little one :0)).
What a beautiful and heartwarming interview. Lauren’s love for you and the books shines through. It’s inspiring to know you both get to work, play, write, and read together, inspiring children and future generations. Maybe they will help make the world a kinder, more inclusive world that builds and connects. Thank you Lauren and Cynthia.
I loved reading this heartwarming interview, Cynthia and Lauren! Keep the Myrtle books coming. The hope for a better world lies with the young.
Wonderful interview! Writing a book together must be such a meaningful process.
Lovely interview and much happiness (and some sleepless nights) to come.
A lovely and quite emotional interview. It’s clear that you’ve done a great job instilling the confidence and values Lauren would need as she grew up, and it’s clear that you Lauren have become a creative and powerful force in the world.
Beautiful and inspirational mother and daugher!
Thanks so much, Annie!
Reblogged this on Lauren Reyes-Grange, Digital Marketer and commented:
My mum recently interviewed me about our children’s book series, Myrtle the Purple Turtle. I must say, creating these books with my mum has been the highlight of my career. I hope you enjoy!
I love this interview, Cynthia and Lauren! What a loving and supportive family you all are and such role models, too!
Thanks, Clare. You and I both know how important it is to each member of the unit to have a supportive family around us. Vital. I hope you are all well.
Yes, thank you, Cynthia. I hope you are all well, too.
Thanks, Clare.
So much love and respect on display here–you’re both so fortunate!
We are indeed, Kerry. I hope you and your loved ones are all well.
A lovely interview Cynthia, and lovely to see mother and daughter and granddaughter together in the same post.. will share in tomorrow’s blogger Daily.. ♥
Thank you.
Wish there were a “Love” button on this. Congrats on the wonderful books and, of course, congrats on the imminent arrival of the new baby. Such an exciting time for you and your family.
It sure is an exciting time, Laurie. Thanks for your kind comment.
You certainly have not lost the ‘professional interviewer’s’ touch and this one is infused by a mutual love which comes through making it special. Congrats to both of you.
Thanks, Paula, honorary aunt of Myrtle!
Oh how lovely! You must be so proud of your beautiful daughter. And soon, a new generation to love Myrtle and be loved by her creators ❤️️ 😊
I am indeed, Sandra. She’s a lovely soul and I’m privileged to collaborate with her.
Love this! *smiling heart*
Thanks so much, Joan!
What a special interview! You are bonded as authors and love and now another generation. I can just imagine you both reading “Myrtle” to that lucky baby girl.
Thanks, Jo Nell. You just gave me a beautiful image!
Fab interview. Lovely.
Cheers
MTM
Thanks, MT!
💜🙂
Beautiful interview Cynthia and Lauren. Lauren looks just like her mom 🙂 Wishing you both lots of joy with the little bundle on the way. 🙂
Thanks so much! 💜
❤
Thank you, Debby!
🙂
it makes that even a nicer interview because you know exactly what to ask.
What a wonderful way to introduce your daughter, Lauren and co-writer of the marvellous Turtle series, Cynthia. Nice to get to know a little bit more about you, Lauren! 🙂
Thank you, Kevin! And many thanks for your continued support 💜
You’re most welcome, Lauren. 🙂
What a wonderful interview … nice to meet you Lauren!
Thank you, Julie!