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Greenport woman publishes children’s book

CARRIE MILLER PHOTO | Newly published author Joyce McKenzie said her book,  “A Straw Holder,”  is based on her granddaughter who loses her first tooth.
CARRIE MILLER PHOTO | Newly published author Joyce McKenzie said her book, “A Straw Holder,” is based on her granddaughter who loses her first tooth.

Aspiring author and lifelong Greenport resident Joyce McKenzie, 52, has recently published her first children’s book about a character named Dee Dee who loses her first tooth.

It is the start of what Ms. McKenzie hopes is a series of children’s books all centered around Dee Dee, featuring the trials and tribulations of growing up.

The book, “A Straw Holder,” was published Sept. 19 by Page Publishing, and is available online on Amazon, Barnes and Noble and other major book outlets.

Ms. McKenzie said she hopes to visit local bookstores, so she can read her first publication to children in the community.

Did you write this book with anyone in mind?

My granddaughter, Dyamond. We all experience losing our teeth but for her it was traumatic. She was excited until she saw herself in the mirror – then she was hysterical. She didn’t want to go to school. I had never seen a child be so upset. At that age, it is a life changing experience.

What lesson do you hope children take away from it?

I hope that they will know that life throws pitfalls, but we can overcome each and every one of them. You’re not the only one going through challenges and tomorrow is always a brighter day.

What inspired you to write a children’s book?

I’m not sure. I think when I had my children it was a lot of trial and error, and so now that I get to see my grandchildren grow it’s funny because I can sit on the sidelines and look and laugh. Now I can write it all down and use them as learning experiences for first time parents.

What is your advice to other aspiring authors?

I would say go for it. I wouldn’t hesitate. It is an awesome experience. I am so glad I did is because I can actually say I am a published author. If nothing else come out of it I am glad for that. I have a book that I can read to my grandchildren and they can read to their grandkids on day.

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