Embark on an enchanting literary voyage curated by the virtuoso wordsmith, Alexa Kober, whose storytelling prowess achieves levels of true extraordinariness. Nestled within the pages of her mesmerizing opus, “Dalli: The Dog with the Alligator Tail,” Kober effortlessly transports avid readers into a world teeming with both whimsical charm and awe-inspiring wonder. Guided by an innate comprehension of the magical crossroads where boundless imagination seamlessly merges with heartwarming narrative, Kober extends an irresistible summons, beckoning you to traverse an enthralling odyssey side by side with the utterly endearing protagonist, Dalli. Through his extraordinary exploits, Kober intricately weaves a narrative tapestry that resonates across epochs, illuminating the profound impact forged by steadfast companionship, unwavering valor, and the wholehearted celebration of one’s unique individuality.
As an author, what do you think makes Dalli, the Dog with the Alligator Tail stand out from other books in its genre?
The concept of an alligator tail on a dog makes Dalli stand out from any other dog in the children’s book genre. With something so unique, I hope that all children who see themselves as being different (whether they are coming from a family of two different cultural or racial backgrounds, if they have something that physically separates them from other children, or just feel they possess an invisible “alligator tail”) can relate to what makes Dalli feel isolated and overcome any anxiety that it may cause.
How do you feel your background or experiences have influenced your writing?
I’ve always felt like the odd one out. Fiction, usually for young adults, but this time for children, has allowed me to get out of my own head and create characters who I can relate to and turn to when I’m feeling low. There is no better feeling than being able to hop into a book (or a poem) that you created, being able to connect with the characters, and having other people tell you that this is something they needed to read.
What age group do you primarily write for, and why did you choose that age group?
I primarily write for young adults and adults, because I find that there is very little holding me back from the topic matter I can write on for them. Dalli came as a surprise to me, and any writer can attest that the best work truly surprises the author themself.
Are there any particular authors or books that have had a profound impact on your writing style or storytelling?
In terms of my work as a children’s author, I really draw inspiration from Dr. Seuss. I know that’s probably the easiest author to grab at, but his use of rhyme and imagination to captivate a youthful audience and integrate life lessons, in books like The Lorax and Horton Hears a Who, is unmatched in the children’s book genre. In terms of my work as a young adult and adult author, Stephen King’s On Writing: A Memoir of the Craft truly changed the way I navigate my writing across all genres.
Do you have any upcoming projects or ideas for new children’s books? Or do you think you will venture into other genres in the future?
I already have some projects in the works in terms of poetry (a chapbook of love poems rooted in mythology) and young adult fiction (a girl with a heart condition navigating her first year at college and a love triangle between her best friend and her boyfriend). However, if Dalli: The Dog with the Alligator Tail takes off and captures the hearts of children, I already have ideas for the next book in the series: Dalli: The Dog with the Alligator Tail and Leo the Lion Fight the Thunder Monster.
To download Dalli: The Dog with the Alligator Tail, click here.
