I had the chance to interview the author of I Deaf-initely Can: Rhett the Heeler, Karlie Waldrip. Her first book released earlier this year and has the sequel book coming soon. Her book is the incredible story of how Karlie, who is deaf and her experiences in adopting her heeler from a shelter who is also deaf. Karlie was kind enough to take the time to answer some questions that I had emailed her awhile ago.

I hope everyone enjoys the interview and please be sure to check out her book I Deaf-initely Can: Rhett the Heeler.

Quotablebooks1: What was your inspiration behind your children’s book?

Karlie Waldrip: I taught 4 years as a deaf education teacher and the teacher in me wanted to write a children’s book. Rhett and I have a large instagram following and majority are adults and we use that platform to show the world that we are no different and able to do things we set our minds to do. Also, I wanted deaf and hard of hearing kids to be able to relate to the book and see deaf characters. There are not many deaf children’s book authors with a deaf illustrator and a deaf dog 🙂 

Quotablebooks1: What is your favorite part about writing/being an author?

Karlie Waldrip: I love sharing our story! I hope everyone learns that deaf people and deaf dogs are able to do anything we set our minds to do. There are so many deaf dogs, deaf blind, blind, etc. dogs out in shelters and rescues, I hope others give them a chance to show them all the amazing things they can do. I also love getting to connect with DHH kids who are just like me and other kids who have no idea about deaf people/dogs and how they are eager to learn more. (DHH: Deaf and Hard of Hearing)

Quotablebooks1: Was there anyone or anything that influenced you to become a writer?

Karlie Waldrip: My family and friends have mentioned that I should write a children’s book about Rhett and I. So I did 🙂 

Quotablebooks1: What is your favorite genre to read and why?

Karlie Waldrip: Honestly, growing up I did not like to read or write. I struggled to hear what words sounded like and how to pronounce some words, then on top of that I had to write it which I struggled with grammar/sentence structure. I never in a million years thought I would be here today with a published children’s book. My wish is for all DHH kids who are struggling to read and write to be able to connect with our children’s book. 

Quotablebooks1: Have you always wanted to be a writer?

Karlie Waldrip: No. I never thought I’d become a children’s book author. When I wrote this book, I had help from my family, friends and coworkers with the editing part. I am so glad I became one! It has been so fun, and I encourage DHH that they can become writers too! 

Quotablebooks1: What were the challenges?

Karlie Waldrip: Challenges throughout the process were actually after I self-published. I had no idea about Texas Comptroller for taxes, did not find out until after a year of my book being out. I almost got suspended from selling my books but we’re good now! I was able to figure the whole process out only because one of Rhett’s friends wrote a children’s book herself and she helped me along the way! 

Quotablebooks1: Would you give any advice to first time authors?

Karlie Waldrip: First time authors, I know it seems overwhelming at first, but there are so many resources out there and network with other authors. There are Facebook pages for new authors and current authors utilize them and network! Networking goes a long way. 

Thank you so much again Karlie for this amazing interview!!