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Mother’s Day is this weekend in the U.S., so here is a lovely story for all the new moms and expectant mothers-to-be out there.
“Before You Were Here, Mi Amor”, written by Samantha R. Vamos is a bilingual picture book about the preparations members of a family make in anticipation of the birth of a child. The story is read by Carrie Ferguson Weir of Los Pollitos Dicen and Bilingual in the Boonies.
Samantha originally hails from the Midwest and currently lives in the Pacific Northwest with her family. “Before You Were Here, Mi Amor” is her first published children’s book.
Samantha says:
“Writing has always been a passion (along with Peppermint Patties, dogs, movies, reading, traveling, Halloween, music, my family, shooting endless photos of my child, and much more). I’ve been writing stories for over twenty years and publishing my writing has been one of my greatest dreams. I was most influenced to write by my mother, but both my parents, as well as my paternal grandfather and maternal grandmother, are and were excellent writers.
I love writing stories for children. My first book, “Before You Were Here, Mi Amor” was inspired by the birth of my sister’s children. The idea for my second book, “The Cazuela That the Farm Maiden Stirred” popped into my head as I was cooking. I laughed, suddenly envisioning a cow contributing her milk and a hen offering her eggs. My plot began evolving and I started writing. I have also written a novel, which I am currently revising.”
Samantha has graciously agreed to autograph three copies of her beautifully-illustrated book for three lucky listeners of Cody’s Cuentos. All I ask is that you donate $10, which will go towards paying for the postage and packaging since the book is a hardcover, oversized item. (U.S. addresses, only.) If you’re interested, please send me a message with your complete name and mailing address via Cody’s Mailbox. Only three copies available, so act quickly. Samantha is also holding a special drawing on her website to give away one copy of her book this summer.
Also on Samantha’s website are activity worksheets based on the words and illustrations in the book. You can download these worksheets for free and then print them out. Great material for elementary school teachers and parents teaching young children Spanish.
Finally, a special “¡gracias!” to Carrie’s friend Bob August who professionally recorded Carrie’s reading at Fluid Studios in Nashville, TN.
Eleena and Carrie – I am overwhelmed. Thank you both so much for the incredible attention you’ve given my book. The entry is wonderful and the recording is gorgeous. I’m truly stunned and so grateful. Un abrazo, Samantha
I just met Samantha at a reading, and bought her book. I’m an adult, have no kids, (poodles and kitties, yes) but I am a newly published children’s book author/illustrator – so read a Lot of kids books. I LOVE this book! The art is colorful and kids will love the friendly family and attention to details. But the writing… twice I got chills. It is tender, loving and intimate. How everyone in the family, including an uncle, the grandparents, the brother and sister and even puppy dog join in. You get a personal glimpse into a families life pre- baby. The wrap up will make your heart melt, ahhhhh.
This is a wonderful book! My children love it and loved hearing it on your website. Thank you!
Annette
Thanks for the positive words and energy. Glad everyone has enjoyed this recording!
I loved hearing this book! Thank you.
The voice is wonderful, and the delivery is so good.
What a beautiful story! And Carrie does a wonderful job of reading it. Thank you.
How lucky am I? I just happened to check out Jen Rofe’s facebook page and saw a comment about Before You Were Born Mi Amor being read aloud. I decided to check it out. I’m so glad I did. Absolutely Incredible. Thanks.
I am so glad everyone has enjoyed the reading. It was one of the coolest gigs I ever have gotten, so thanks for entrusting it to me. The book is wonderful and Cody’s Cuentos is a delight for me and my daughter.
Carrie, you’re a rock star! I think I should launch another podcast around your voice.
Mil gracias, Carrie, and thanks again to everyone for their comments.
(P.S. to everyone, there are still signed copies of the book available. Just email me privately if interested in getting one.)
This book is so gorgeous in illustrations and text! It’s very sweet, vivid, and meaningful. We treaure this one!