Is Having Children an Unexpected Path to Publishing Success?

In Discussion by Edward Nawotka

By Edward Nawotka

Today’s lead story describes the success Mark Garcia-Prats’ mother found as an author in the midst of raising ten sons. While this story may seem extraordinary, it’s not unusual to find that authors have found the focus a child brings to a household is helpful to their writing. Think of Toni Morrison who forced herself to wake before her children to get her writing done. Then there are the numerous authors who weren’t able to fully commit themselves to writing until they had children, which in turn demanded they leave a full-time career in some other profession to spend time at home caring for their children. Finally, several children’s authors were first motivated by the need to create stories for their own children…and the examples go on and on.

So, tell us, what do you think: Is having a child an unexpected path to publishing success? Or is it, more often than not, a hindrance to finding the time to write?

Let us know what you think in the comments.

About the Author

Edward Nawotka

A widely published critic and essayist, Edward Nawotka serves as a speaker, educator and consultant for institutions and businesses involved in the global publishing and content industries. He was also editor-in-chief of Publishing Perspectives since the launch of the publication in 2009 until January 2016.