A breath of fresh air entered the Gifted Underachievers Clubhouse: Toronto-based writer Nadja Lubiw-Hazard, author of the children’s chapter book Tizzy & Me, the novel The Nap-Away Motel, and an upcoming story collection (we love a writer who works cross-genre!). Former veterinarian and lifelong animal lover and advocate, Nadja’s positivity and persistence is a total inspiration for every creative.
In this segment, we discuss:
How writing a secret novel helped Nadja find a new version of herself
How maintaining your core interests and values from childhood can direct and enrich your journey through adult life
How to refocus, re-examine what you think you should be doing, and turn toward the things you most want to do
How Nadja’s creativity serves her animal advocacy
The confluence of circumstances that led to the success of Tizzy & Me (and how the illustrations came about)
The future of the Tizzy & Me chapter books (hint—a series!)
The value of mentorship and feedback in producing publishable work
How essential creativity is to being human
We loved this deep conversation about one of the most important aspects of being a creative: aligning it with what we most value.
Segment Links:
Nadja’s Website: www.nmlhazard.com
Red Deer Press: www.reddeerpress.com (publisher of the Tizzy & Me books)
Palimpsest Press: www.palimpsestpress.ca (publisher of The Nap-Away Motel)
Arsenal Pulp Press: arsenalpulp.com (publisher of Nadja’s upcoming story collection)
Collaborative Learning College: clc.camh.ca
An illustration from Tizzy & Me: Fifteen Ways to Love a Mink by Alice Priestley, Publisher: Red Deer Press. Thank you to Alice Priestley and Red Deer Press for permission to share this.
Note from Pat—When I was reading the book, I turned to this page and gasped out loud because IT WAS EXACTLY HOW I PICTURED THE MOMS. That never happens! The illustrations are perfect.
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