Hello
I'm delighted to see you have found your way to my sight! I hope you will join me in giving our young readers every opportunity to excel in their academic pursuits. As I am sure you are aware, building vocabulary is essential to student success as it leads to greater academic achievement. Annie's Adventures is comprised of a series of books featuring little Annie who takes the reader along with her during her journey. As they explore, they experience many different challenges and learn to spell new sight words along the way. Once the reader has finished the journey with Annie, they are invited to complete practical learning activities in the back of the book to reinforce what they have learned. I know you will agree there is no better way for young readers to increase vocabulary than by reading activities that are fun, wholesome and entertaining. That's what your young reader will find in this exciting series. As always, I invite you to connect and share your thoughts!
My Story
I am a retired educator who spent the majority of her years counseling students in both the middle and high school. I was also Director of Academic Advising at the College of Southern Maryland and also taught sociology and English as a Second language. I hold a Doctoral degree in counseling psychology from the American Christian College and Seminary. Education is my passion, and I believe every child deserves the opportunity to excel. I am also passionate about my faith and my love for Christ Jesus and want everyone to come to know Him personally. Currently, I reside in Henderson, NC with my husband Bernard.
Q & A with Sandra Hawkins-Tolson
1. What do you preferred to be called?
This is a difficult question because I'm really sensitive about my first name. It is SANDRA but I found that many people would pronounce it as SAUNDRA (which I do not like). Not sure why but anyway, to make it a little easier I simply go by Sandy. So, should you have the need to contact me, Sandy will do just fine!
2. Are you a full-time writer?
I do not consider myself a full-time writer, but I do write often. I love creating story boards for my books and see them become books children really love. To answer the question, I write part time—but it’s a BIG part time and something I really enjoy doing!
3. What do you do in your spare time?
Wow! Spare time . . . I'm not really sure what that is! I am retired so that affords me the opportunity to schedule my days the way I want. Nevertheless, there never seem to be enough hours in the day to get things done. I am a wife, mother, Bible teacher, prayer warrior, pianist, artist and friend of many (whom I love dearly). So, I'm not sure where the spare time comes in. I'm not even sure I know what "spare time looks like!
4. When do you get your writing ideas from?
That's a hard question to answer. I generally look back at my own childhood and some of the things I did as a child and try to capture them and bring them to life. I consider myself a life-long learner and, as such, I am always looking for ways to help young minds achieve academically. Children who receive a head start in learning and improving their vocabulary are already headed to academic success. That's the goal!!
5. Does your faith play a role in your writing?
My faith plays a role in everything I do. I am a Christian first and foremost and everything I do is governed by Christian principles. I consider my writing a gift from God and know that He guides my thoughts and ideas. All glory goes to Him for the books He has allowed me to produce!
Contact
I'm always looking for new and exciting opportunities to collaborate and share ideas. Let's connect.