Meet Claudia
What inspired you to write Bajette’s Balloon?
I did not shop my manuscript to big publishing houses. When I read that by signing with a big publishing house, I would lose control of the creative direction, marketing, and illustration choice, I decided to take on the cost and self-publish. I was able to produce a high-quality book with an original story and original illustrations sketched by hand and include an interactive element with the Magic of Smiles™ stickers to put giving into action.
A freelancer who is a literary agent edited my book, providing me with feedback from that perspective. That gave me the confidence that the book had a positive, safe, and impactful message that would resonate with kids, parents, and educators. The Magic of Smiles™ is trademarked to protect the sticker mission of giving that is distributed only through book purchases, live readings, and story submissions at no additional cost.
How do you see Bajette’s Balloon impacting families, classrooms, and communities?
It will lift many spirits with the magic of smile stickers, leaving a lasting impression. It will create connections and bring awareness to people around us. It will teach that giving is receiving. This book is the ultimate gift I can give and I am so proud to share it with our future generation.
Can you tell us more about your parents’ influence on your life and this book?
My parents always made sure my friends felt included—whether it was a trip to NYC or a sports event, they never let anyone spend a dime. Even when my mom was at her sickest, she sent my siblings and me on scavenger hunts for special candies just so she could make goodie bowls for the nurses and staff. Giving was simply who they were, and that spirit is at the heart of this book.
What’s next for Bajette’s Balloon?
Oh, that balloon has many adventures in store for us! Bajette’s Balloon will be traveling around the US to classrooms, libraries, events, and bookstores, and I can’t wait to hear and share the stories we received. The impact is what truly matters!
Why did you choose to self-publish Bajette’s Balloon?
The constant generosity of my parents was a gift to me, my brother Michael, and my brother Bobby. We saw them open their hearts to everyone around them without thinking about it. We are all different as siblings, but our strong common thread is that we have that natural instinct to give, just like our parents did.
