Today we’d like to introduce you to Megan Butcher.
Hi Megan, thanks for sharing your story with us. To start, maybe you can tell our readers some of your backstories.
I have dreamed of being a writer for as long as I can remember! I spent time as an elementary school teacher and then the past ten years as an event planner. I took some time off of work to spend more time with my family and decided it was finally time to tackle my dream. My husband is a ski patroller at Alpine Meadows in Lake Tahoe, and we had a golden retriever who was an avalanche search dog. The dogs have always been such a huge part of our experience on the mountain and the role they play is so important at the resorts and in the backcountry. Our dog passed away suddenly due to cancer in 2020 and the outpouring of love and admiration for him was so incredible. I always knew people loved patrol dogs, but it was incredibly evident after this. I knew it was time to write a story about our dog, Walter, and how important he and his dog friends are to everyone who skis and snowboards. I was lucky enough to be friends with an incredible illustrator, Megan Jost. She brought Walter’s story to life and her illustrations are just adorable. We were able to publish the book and had a great amount of support from local shops and several stores out of state as well.
Can you talk to us a bit about the challenges and lessons you’ve learned along the way? Looking back would you say it’s been easy or smooth in retrospect?
Self-publishing a book sounds easy, but it was an uphill battle at times! Finding the right printer to make sure your illustrations and text are exactly how you want it was difficult, but we did it! The next difficult part was finding retailers to sell the book. We have had a great response from every location that has sold the book locally. We are starting to branch out into other states, which can be tricky when you can’t stop by the store and show them the actual book.
Can you tell our readers more about what you do and what you think sets you apart from others?
Being a children’s author was always a dream, but now it’s become a reality that I truly can’t believe. I have spent the past ten years planning events and weddings, so it’s been fun to use my creativity in a different way. It’s been so cool to see our illustrator Megan’s creative process too. She has her own company called Colors by Megan and her illustrations and designs are out of this world!
Besides my family, this book is something that I am incredibly proud of. It’s still surprising to me to see the book in local stores. The most rewarding part has been hearing from friends and people who have bought the book who have loved it. I have a friend who has two boys and they read the book every night and they create their own Walter, and the patrol dog stories and that is so incredible to me!
Is there anyone you’d like to thank or give credit to?
Megan Jost illustrated the book. Her work is amazing. She has already published two books and working with her was a dream. She had so much knowledge about the publishing world already it made the whole process smoother.
Our local retailers who took a chance on the book and have continued to support us have been such a huge blessing.
Lastly, my friends and family. I have a close group of friends who have cheered me on the entire way. I sent so many rough drafts to friends and family throughout the process and that was so helpful to get their valued opinions.
My husband has been the biggest piece of the puzzle. His job as a ski patroller and dog handler with our dog was the inspiration behind the book. His support and encouragement have been crucial in helping me accomplish writing this book.
Pricing:
- Cost of the book is 19.99
Contact Info:
- Website: Skipatrolpups.com
- Instagram: Skipatrolpups
Image Credits
Megan Jost
