Amanda Driscoll has always been interested in art. She spent several years working as a graphic designer after earning an art degree from Murray State University, but it was after she became a mother that she discovered her true calling as an author and illustrator of children’s books.
“I had kids, and I discovered that I love picture books,” explained Driscoll. “I decided that is what I wanted to do with my life.”
Driscoll, who is from Louisville, was in town last week to speak to students at Williamsburg Independent School about her experiences with creating children’s books. “I tell them about my journey, and the hard work and persistence that it takes,” she said. “I talk about following dreams, because there were a lot of rejections along the way before I finally got the ‘yes’ for what became my first published book.”
That first published book was titled Duncan the Story Dragon, and it was published in 2015. Driscoll said it took about six years of writing, illustrating and submitting in order to make her dream come true.
During her presentation, Driscoll offered K-3 students at Williamsburg a behind-the-scenes look into the process for creating Duncan the Story Dragon, from initial sketches, to storyboards, to the eventual finished product. All students present for the program were sent home with their very own copy of the book.
“I really enjoy these school visits,” Driscoll said. “I am inspired by the kids every time that I do one. It is nice to be able to come to the schools and get reminded about what is important to the students. It invigorates me to be around them.”
So far, Driscoll has published a total of four books that she says feature a mix of “humor and heart” that will hopefully make kids laugh while also conveying some sort of a meaningful message. A fifth book is on the way in the spring of 2025.
Driscoll’s visit to Williamsburg was made possible by the Partners for Rural Impact Full Service Community State Scale grant, which provides services, opportunities and resources for students at WIS, as well as other schools across the region. FSCS School Coordinator Kayla Henderson worked with Media Center Specialist Kassie Lowrie in order to present this program with the goal of promoting early-grade literacy.
For additional information on Amanda Driscoll, visit her online at www.amandadriscoll.com.
