Cindy Williams Schrauben, a local Mt. Pleasant-based children’s book author, has released a new book, “This Could Be You,” and recently launched a program to increase book accessibility.
Schrauben grew up in Eaton Rapids, Michigan, and moved with her family to Mt. Pleasant about 20 years ago. Today, she is an author of children’s books and uses writing as an outlet to share and communicate her thoughts and ideas.
“It’s a real passion for me,” says Schrauben. “Everything else disappears when I write.”
Her latest book “This Could Be You” is her first picture book and features themes such as activism, diversity and academic achievement throughout the book.
“I think getting kids interested in books early on is really crucial, and picture books have always been a really fun thing for me,” Schrauben says. “And the connection it allows for kids and parents is another thing that I’m really excited about.”
She says one of the joys of being a children’s book author is being able to interact and connect with children. She frequently attends events at bookstores and children’s museums, spending time reading stories to children.
“I’m a big advocate for literacy and getting books into the hands of kids, especially kids with low incomes or who don’t have much access to books,” says Schrauben.
Recently, she also launched a program called Books for Kids – Partners in Literacy. In addition to providing more books to children, she says she hopes to promote local businesses and give them the opportunity to help her in her journey to increase literacy rates.
“There are 45 million Americans who don’t read above a fifth-grade level,” Schrauben says.
To learn more about Schrauben or her new book, visit cindyschrauben.com.