YOU MIGHT NOT BE DISAPPOINTED THIS TIME

Ever since I was a little girl, I have always loved to write plays and perform them to the children in our neighbourhood. Back then, I used the solid wooden table in my father’s office as a stage to perform my stories with my sisters and of course, the many characters I had with me inspired by my ‘imaginary friends’. I owe my love to literature to my year 5 school teacher whose love for great poets like Rumi and Nizar Qabani has only enhanced my love for writing and so I kept doing it all my life. And even though I have had more luck in publishing my poetry professionally I have always loved to read and write children’s stories.

To be honest, I had ‘Sam’s Forever Garden’ sitting in my archive for several years and although I did receive a few contracts through traditional publishers, the contracts didn’t quite satisfy how I wanted to portray my story. I was super lucky to come across a children’s author via Facebook, now a friend of mine, Peter Taylor, who, after having read my story, has guided me to the Tadaa team. My partner in crime, Christopher was insisting “Just take a look, you might not be disappointed this time” … So, I trusted his guidance and as soon as I had a look at the Website, I felt it! Tadaaaaa! I found a home for my story, at last!

It lies in the journey of their storytelling. I felt the heartbeat of each of the artwork as if there’s an existing soulmate in every illustration waiting to meet its match.
So next, I shot an email to them and that was when I first met Ozan Tortop. I’m so glad I did! From the very first email, Ozan was there offering support and professional advice. I have never come across anyone as dedicated to providing high-quality service with the way I have experienced dealing with Ozan. Through his exceptional work ethics and his perfectionist style in his craft, I could see how much passion he has for what he does.

Having seen my story unfold was like watching something I planted come to fruition. They involved me in every step of the process and he was straightforward with his input. He worked very long hours, even on the weekends, to have my book ready on time.

Holding my story in my own hands as I read it aloud, as I will hopefully read it to my baby, as I share it with all the children everywhere, is one of the proudest moments of my life.

I must admit I do have a few more stories under my belt… So, Until next time!

Carole Abourjeili
Author