Meet Carol Wulff, author of William, The What-If-Wonder. "Carol Wulff, LSW, is a Licensed Social Worker and mother of a child with anxiety. Remembering how painful it was to witness her child’s mind racing just to get through the simplest of tasks, she vowed to one day write a book to help others learn how to tackle those annoying what-if thoughts. Cognitive reframing—seeing the same situation in a new way—empowered her child to manage the anxiety and approach new situations with confidence. She created William, the What-If Wonder to help children learn how to use their power to change their view and see past their worrisome thoughts. Carol lives in Medina, Ohio, with her husband and three children."
How long have you been writing?
I have been involved in collaborating on fun projects like publishing a family cookbook, contributing to newsletters, and published an article in a professional magazine over the years. As for book publications, "William, The What-If Wonder" is my first, published in May of 2018.
What is your most recent literary/artistic project?
"William, The What-If Wonder, On His First Day of School" is number one in the series. I am currently working on book #2, "William, The What-If Wonder, At His First Sleepover", projected publication in 2019.
What inspires you to write?
I was inspired by Joan Lunden one day when I saw her on TV speaking of her breast cancer experience: "When you've been through something so awful, you feel obligated to reach out your hand and pull someone else through". Though I wouldn't describe my experience in raising a child with anxiety as "awful", it was challenging, heartbreaking, and frustrating all at the same time. But, the lessons learned were so valuable and life changing for my child that I too felt obligated to "pull someone else through". A children's book seemed the perfect conduit to be helpful to both children and parents alike. There is a section in the book especially for parents written by a board certified child psychologist to help parents navigate their child's anxious thoughts.
Who’s your favorite author and why?
I am a big children's book fan. One of my favorites is Amy Krouse Rosenthal. Her books are so uplifting. I recently bought two copies of her "Dear, Girl" for my daughters in college. I left it on their bed one day when they came home from school because the words on the pages should be read by everyone! It encourages authenticity in a gentle, loving way. My other favorite book of hers is "I Wish You More". I have given it away so many times as a gift . Again, it's so authentic and speaks to your heart. Unfortunately Amy passed away of Ovarian cancer in 2017.
What advice can you give to other authors or writers?
Write from your heart because you will be passionate about the message or story and the words will flow. Otherwise you will find you are forcing yourself to find the right words. Know your audience because that will keep you focused. Speak to them. Your words become authentic in the delivery of your message or story. Get an authentic critique, family members excluded. Feedback from a non-family member or friend gives you remarkable insight and will contain both strength and weaknesses for you to consider. Give that feedback fair consideration. Not everyone is going to like your book -- Get over it. It's true! But not a reason not to write that book. Step out of your zone and write because someone is going to LOVE your book!
Where can readers go to find out more information about your work?
www.thewhatifwonder.com or to contact me at: carol@thewhatifwonder.com