Mission, Texas- A Math teacher at Escobar/Rios Elementary School is now a published author. Her recently released children’s book, The Misadventures of Suki: A Whole New Life, was a project first started by Janice Lynn Vega about five years ago. Vega started to write the book while also working full-time as a teacher with Mission CISD (Consolidated Independent School District), working summer school, and pursuing a Master’s Degree. She said it took her about a year to complete the first draft. She said it involved lots of changes to get the storyline just the way she wanted. Then came the process of submitting the draft to many different publishing companies. Vega said one finally said they loved the concept and wanted to work with her on the book. Vega said this was followed by editing and working with an illustrator. The process of editing and illustrating took about two years to work through the final development processes.
“When I was little, I loved reading books,” Vega said. “I’ve wanted to work for a textbook company, working on Math and Science textbooks.”
Her new book, is based on a chihuahua she used to have, named Suki. Vega said she found herself wondering about what types of adventures Suki would have running around their neighborhood with other dogs. That was the inspiration for the story of her book. Vega said the book includes lessons that Suki learns during her adventures.
The book was released this month and Vega says they will start promoting the book, as time permits, in April. The book is available through several online sources, including Amazon.
“I see this possibly becoming a series,” Vega said. “A series to teach kids life lessons. Children relate well to characters like this.”
Vega indicated one of the things that took the longest in finalizing the book for printing were the illustrations. Vega said she had a very clear concept of what she wanted and that she wanted to make sure they got it just how she envisioned. Plus, she wanted to make sure they had the illustrations of Suki as close as possible to how her chihuahua looked in real life.
When asked about what her students thought about her becoming a published author, Vega indicated they are excited. Vega said she has had students tell her she is inspiring them to pursue their dreams, some of which include writing a book.
Soon, any Mission CISD elementary student will be able to check out Vega’s book. The district is in the process of ordering books for each elementary school library.
Pictured is Escobar/Rios Elementary School teacher and author, Janice Lynn Vega with her book, The Misadventures of Suki: A Whole New Life.
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