OCAI: We have a brand new Oklahoma author to introduce--Steve Lessman. We say he's "brand new" but that's only because we don't know how many months and years it took to create his first picture book,D-Day. Welcome, Steve....can you tell our viewers a bit about your background, where you grew up, where you went to college, and what your "other" job is?
Steve:I grew up in Bartlesville, OK and had a wonderful All-American childhood. I went on to attend the University of Oklahoma and studied Communications and Political Science. Although it wasn't planned, I ended up being "called" into ministry and have served on staff at the same church in Yukon for almost 19 years. Here I have worked with students, and now am actively involved with families in our church and community. OCAI: So along with your "real" job, being a husband and father of three, when are you able to fit writing into your busy schedule? Do you write every day? Steve: Writing has been great therapy for me to express my thoughts, dreams, and sometimes just to let my imagination go. I feel I always have a story to tell and many ideas. However, between my job and my kids it's hard to find time to write. Thus, most of my writing time is with a good cup of coffee late at night. Did I mention I love coffee?! OCAI: Since this is your first book, can you share with our viewers any tips you've learned along the way on writing, editing, and making that all-important connection with a publisher? Steve:The idea for this book came a few years before the final manuscript. Chris, the illustrator, and I talked about it and did some research over that time, while I wrote many different ideas and parts to the book. Finally, I committed to put the pieces together and complete the manuscript. I had sent other manuscripts to publishers in the past without success, so the "fear" of getting published loomed as we had friends edit and critique my writing. It was humbling to open your heart and your writing to others to read and edit. During the editing process, Chris met Doug at New Forums Press on another project. He shared our idea of "D-Day: American Character" and he loved the idea. Now, would he love the manuscript? Thankfully he did! At that time Chris was able to begin the laborious part of illustrating. As you can tell by the quality of illustrations, they don't happen overnight. Chris took time to research as he passionately illustrated the "character" of our veterans. And finally - it was complete! So, I wish I could tell you how to get published. However I can say is "write". Write what your heart leads you to, and then be willing to receive input from others. Whether your published or not, it is a fulfilling experience. OCAI: Thanks Steve. We wish you much success with your first book! To learn more about Steve and his author visits in schools, click on the above link.
Introduction
Steve grew up in Bartlesville, Oklahoma during the 1970’s.Hunting for pop bottles to get a nickel and keeping grass stains off his bell-bottoms were life’s biggest worries.Steve always had a way with words, whether talking his way out of trouble, telling funny stories, or encouraging those he met.
Over the years, Steve learned how powerful words could be.There were instrumental people in his life that inspired and encouraged him with simple phrases such as,“I am proud of you”, “ You can do it”, and “You are good at…” He also experienced how hurtful and lonely it is when these words of encouragement are missing.After graduating from the University of Oklahoma, Steve pursued ministry so that he could help, encourage, and inspire others. With laughter and authenticity, Steve has loved working with students.He never met a stranger and loves to get beyond the surface to inspire students to be their best.
Background
His career has included speaking and teaching teenage students as a Youth Director, and currently working with younger children and their families as a Family Director.This has led to many opportunities to work with schoolteachers, help students in need, and speaking to student groups. Steve has received a Master’s degree from Grace Theological Seminary and loves spending time with his wife Stacy, and children, Garrett, Grace, and Anna. Steve’s passion to help students and to tell stories led him to write children’s works.Combining his love for American history, Steve has his first published work, D-Day: American Character.This is not a typical history book, as it will challenge and inspire the reader.Combined with Christopher Nick’s powerful illustrations, this book will encourage children to pursue quality character, while telling the gripping story of the D-Day heroes. Speaking Information
Steve is excited about the opportunities he has to challenge students to pursue lives of character.With his funny stories and authentic encouragement, Steve will inspire children to follow the example of great Americans.After Steve spends time with them, students will know they “can do it”, that they are special, and they have what it takes to be the next generation of American heroes.
Books
Steve is the author of D-Day, illustrated by Chris Nick (who is also on OCAI)..
