I’m thrilled to have Elizabeth Gilbert Bedia on the blog today. I loved her first book, BESS THE BARN STANDS STRONG, illustrated by Katie Hickey. So you can imagine how excited I was to hear about her new book, BALLOONS FOR PAPA, illustrated by Erika Meza. Trust me, you’ll want to order it for yourself if you like a picture book with powerful story, full of emotion, beautifully illustrated.
One lucky winner (US only) will get a signed copy of BALLOONS FOR PAPA and book swag from Elizabeth. Comment on this post to enter the giveaway.
What were you like at the age of your target audience?
I was curious, caring, and creative. Always outdoors with an animal by my side. And…a tad mischievous.☺
What inspires you?
I think inspiration is everywhere, but we must be willing to see it, hear it, and feel it.
It could be in the scene from a good book where two foes fight to save their neighborhood together. It could be in the caring nature of a giant tree providing shade on a hot summer day. It could be in a stranger’s act of genuine kindness. It could be in the rhythmic hum of the cicadas singing their last summer serenade. Or as in my latest picture book, BALLOONS FOR PAPA, it could be in the vivid memories of empathy and hope from the ones you love.
My most inspiring moments come when I quiet my mind and take the time to look, listen, and truly feel the world around me.
What do you hope readers take away from your book?
The simplest answer is hope. I hope both children and parents find hope and feel empathy as they read it. Also, I hope it acts as a conversation starter to talk about those big feelings that both children and adults experience.
Here is a lovely review from a reader on Amazon:
“This beautiful book shares a powerful message of hope, love and determination. Bedia’s lovely prose will melt your heart, while Meza’s gorgeous illustrations carry you away. This story of reliance and empathy is one that everyone will be able to relate to. A beautiful and timely tale.”
What’s next for you?
I have a few projects in the works. They are a bit of a departure from my other picture books. One is a nonfiction manuscript utilizing my audiology background and the other is humorous and fun-loving picture book manuscript. But aside from writing, my immediate family and I are reconnecting with family this summer after not seeing each other for more than a year. It is hands-down the highlight of my year!
Thanks so much for having me on your wonderful blog, Laura! It has been delightful!
To learn more about Elizabeth and her books:
Website: https://elizabethgilbertbedia.com. Twitter: @lizbedia. Instagram: @lizbedia
Laura Roettiger Books 
Hope over fear — ah, I remind myself often. Looking forward to reading your book. Congrats.
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Thanks for reading, Elizabeth. This book blew me away! Incredibly emotional story and the illustrations are exquisite. Good luck in the giveaway.
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Thank you for this book giveaway opportunity. This is one of the books I would love to add to my classroom library to read to my class for our daily morning book talks. My students would love it and even more that it is signed. Thanks and congratulations on this book!
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Yesenia (I saw your name on Twitter) 😊 Thank you for reading and sharing your book talk idea with me. I’m a former teacher and that’s such a special way to address ideas and topics. Good luck in the giveaway.
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Thank you for this giveaway opportunity. I would love to add this book to my classroom library for our book talks. I know my students will enjoy it.
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I’m glad that there is more acknowledgement of depression now than there used to be. I wish no child was ever impacted by it (directly or indirectly), but for those who are, books like this will provide reassurance.
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Thanks for reading, Janet. Yes, I think everyone will benefit from things being more open. I think the indirect impact of depression probably touches more people than anyone realizes. Thanks for sharing your thoughts and good luck in the giveaway.
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I love reading books like this one that bring hope to readers. Thank you for the chance to win a copy to read and review.
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Thanks for reading and all your support of the creators on my blog. This book is really powerful. Good luck in the giveaway.
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Just the kind of book I need to read right now!
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Paula, 🤗🤗🤗🤗🤗 Yes, it’s got all the emotions you’re going through. Wishing you strength and peace. Good luck in the giveaway.
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Great interview! This looks so beautiful, and I adored Bess the Barn Stands Strong. Congratulations both to Elizabeth and Erika!!
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Thanks for stopping by my blog. It IS a beautiful book! Good luck in the giveaway.
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This book is already on my list of books I MUST read, I can’t wait to have a copy. Congratulations on this book and your future projects.
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Roberta, thank you for stopping by the blog. Yes, BALLOONS FOR PAPA is a must read! It’s really well done. Good luck in the giveaway.
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Congratulations, Elizabeth, on bringing another wonderful book to the world. Thank you for sharing it, Laura. I loved Bess the Barn, and now I have another title to look for.
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Shaunda, thanks for reading. BALLOONS FOR PAPA is fabulous and I’m so happy to share it with my readers. Good luck in the giveaway.
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Looking forward to reading this lovely book! Thanks for another wonderful post, Laura.
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Thanks for reading, Mary! This book is lovely! I’m so happy to share it with my readers and I know it will be a cherished book for any library. Good luck in the giveaway.
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Looking forward to reading your latest! P.S. Love that you have an audiology background – I’m an SLP!
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Kari, thank you for reading and sharing your connection. And, thank you for being on the blog! Good luck in the giveaway.
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