Today we’d like to introduce you to Liesl Schuh. They and their team shared their story with us below:
ABOUT THE BOOK:
The Girl Dad is a children’s book celebrating the special relationship between daddies and daughters. Inspired by actual events that happen in everyday life, it highlights the positive role fathers play in their daughters’ lives and features relatable adult messaging coupled with fun illustrations.
BECOMING AN AUTHOR:
After a career in public relations, I became a stay-at-home mom in 2017 after my first daughter, Sawyer, was born. We welcomed Piper in 2018; our third daughter, Charlee, arrived in 2021. In the months following Charlee’s birth, my mom always commented on what a great girl dad, my husband, Stephen, is. She casually encouraged me to write something for him, and thus, The Girl Dad was born. As I wrote the book, I knew I had photos of my husband doing the activities related to the text. Thee original book is a photo book I gifted to him for Christmas in 2021. Once he and others read it, the consensus was to bring the book to life. It took a little over a year from start to finish, but we’ve taken what was a happy accident and turned it into something that brings joy to so many others.
Can you tell us about the challenges and lessons you’ve learned? Looking back, would you say it’s been easy or smooth?
The writing and illustrating of the book were the easiest and most fun parts by far. After that completion, it took another six months to learn how to navigate the world of self-publishing and research for cost-effective printing options. As far as self-publishing goes, there are a lot of great platforms out there that make the DIY approach attainable, but I could only have done it with the help of my illustrator, Heitor Rissato. As far as printing goes, I wanted my books to be printed in the United States rather than overseas, which usually means more money, but I did my due diligence to try and find the cheapest, quality option out there. I’m old school and like to be able to pick up the phone and call someone with questions/concerns, and I still do this all the time. It’s a continual learning process.
Thanks – so, what else should our readers know about your work and what you’re currently focused on?
Regarding what I do, I would now be considered an author specializing in children’s books. I am newly known for this trade and being a stay-at-home mom to three girls, a wife, daughter, sister, San Antonio native, and Texas Tech fan! What I’m most proud of is the life that I have built for myself after years of suffering from addiction and being sober and in recovery today. Growing up, I struggled with things many young girls go through in those vulnerable teenage years that would later contribute to the addiction I suffered from for a decade in early adulthood. Back then, it wasn’t talked about like it is these days. I’m grateful we live in a world where the darkness is brought out into the light, and help is available. I believe this part of me also sets me apart from others. I have lived a lot of life in my 39 years and have a lot of perspectives and things to offer from these experiences. As people in recovery, we are “uniquely qualified to help others in need” because this life experience serves as a source of support. What I’ve learned being sober these last eight and a half years is something I carry with me into my daily life.
What would you say has been one of the most important lessons you’ve learned?
Probably patience! (Which is not always in my nature.) Nothing in this industry moves fast, and for good reason. There’s a universal checklist for self-publishing or going through a publishing house proofing, editing, uploading, reviewing, revisions, measurements, printing, proofing again, etc. It can be an arduous process, but it ensures the final outcome is perfect!
Pricing:
- First edition 29.99
- Second Edition 19.99
Contact Info:
- Website: https://thegirldadbook.com
- Instagram: @thegirldadbook
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Thegirldadbook/
- Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/liesldarrschuh/
- Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCfMmNtpHlHWQRTe50kIwySQ
Image Credits
Abby Kennan – headshot Heitor Rissato – book illustrations
