Raleigh author pens picture book about girl during Reconstruction

Kelly Starling Lyons, a Raleigh mom of two and children's book author, is celebrating the launch of her third book.

"Ellen's Broom," published by G.P. Putnam's Sons and illustrated by Daniel Minter, tells the story of a young girl who learns more about her family's past as her parents, former slaves, legally register their marriage during the time of Reconstruction. The book is designed for kids ages 6 to 10.

Lyons and I chatted a bit by email about her new book. Here's our conversation:

Growing up, I rarely saw kids who looked like me as the main characters of children's books. I loved books and treasured every story I read. But after reading Something Beautiful, I knew I had missed something important. Right then, I decided to add my voice.

I started by learning about the field, reading lots of children's books, coming up with ideas and sending out manuscripts. I got my break when publisher Just Us Books took an interest in my writing. Four years after I dreamed of writing for kids, my first book, NEATE: Eddie's Ordeal (Just Us Books) was published. Now I have three published books with two more on the way in fall 2012 and spring 2013. I feel so blessed.