I Never Expected This After Publishing Nora…
One young reader did something that completely surprised me.
Nora’s First Month
I am overjoyed by the amount of support Nora Escapes the Bakery has received during its very first month of release.
I’m happy to share that 57 readers are already enjoying Nora’s adventure!
Many photos have come in of children holding the book and reading Nora. Even a few adults shared photos of themselves joining the adventure. Every picture, message, and kind word warmed my heart!
When I started writing Nora Escapes the Bakery, I hoped children would enjoy the adventure. I never imagined one little reader would finish the book... and then decide to write one of her own. Once again, a little one reminded me of groundbreaking truth: sometimes the ending of someone’s story is the beginning of someone else’s.
Founding Cookie Creator Award
As I looked through the photos and messages from these amazing young readers, one story stood out in a very special way.
Congratulations to Delaney Polk!
After reading Nora Escapes the Bakery with her grandparents, Delaney joined the discussion, reflected on the story, and then wrote a book of her own called The Butterfly Lake.
Her creativity captured exactly what I hoped Nora would inspire in young readers.
Delaney will receive a beach game, bookmarks, bracelets, and a special feature on Crumb Trail Publishing as our very first Founding Cookie Creator!
Congratulations, Delaney! I can’t wait to see where your imagination takes you next.
Nora & Friends
One of my favorite parts of this first month has been seeing Nora welcomed into so many homes.
Below are a few photos celebrating the wonderful readers who have joined the Cookie Crew. Every smile, every shared story, and every encouraging message reminds me that this little cookie has already begun finding her place in the world.
Could Your Child Be July’s Cookie Creator?
The adventure continues!
Design or decorate an original cookie character inspired by Nora Escapes the Bakery. Give your cookie a name, choose its flavor, imagine its personality, or even create special powers.
Parents and educators can share their child’s creation on Instagram using #NoraEscapesTheBakery and tag @AuthorDevansEli for a chance to be featured on Crumb Trail Publishing and become July’s Cookie Creator!
I can’t wait to meet the next Cookie Creator!
Where You Can Find Me Next
My first official event as an indie author will be at The Ivy Bookshop on July 11!
We’ll enjoy a live reading of Nora Escapes the Bakery, an SEL discussion, and a fun craft activity together.
If you’re in the Baltimore area, I’d love to meet you and your little readers.
Thank You
Looking back on Nora’s first month, I’m watching a community of young readers, parents, grandparents, teachers, librarians, and Cookie Creators begin to grow around this whimsical story.
I am forever grateful for you all’s support!
Thank you for believing in Nora, encouraging me, and giving this little cookie a place in your homes and hearts.
The adventure has only just begun.