Dr. Rhonda Spencer-Hwang is an epidemiologist and an associate professor in public health at Loma Linda University.
Your book, RAISING RESILIENT KIDS, is a research-based recipe for parents on raising happy, resilient children who are prepared to handle life and its surprises, like COVID-19.
Where did you get your idea?
Dr. Rhonda: I’d done the research on the many centenarians from Loma Linda, California and their life-long habits. During my talks at medical conferences, parents would ask, “Where’s your book?” They wanted a way to put this information into practice.
How long did it take to write your book?
Dr. Rhonda: The research alone took 5 years. Then the book proposal was 6 months. The final product was another year and a half. So overall, it was a 7 year process.
Describe your writing process.
Dr. Rhonda: I do an old-fashioned outline. That way I have all the chapters mapped out. Then I write on-the-fly, that is, when I have down time, filling in with anecdotes, humor and lots of edits.
Do you want to become a full-time writer?
Dr. Rhonda: Oh no! Into my writing, I bring my work as an epidemiologist. I pull stories from my job and real life.
How do you handle writer’s block?
Dr. Rhonda: I don’t have time for writer’s block. With three kids, classes to teach, consulting, and community outreach, I write when I can. It usually only equals about 45 minutes a day. So I’ve got to get it done. If one subject isn’t calling out to me, I just jump into the next chapter.
What are you working on now?
Dr. Rhonda: With my grown-up book goal accomplished, I’ve been tinkering with a picture book with a science theme. And post-pandemic, I’m planning another adult book for parents and their health.
Any suggestions for other writers?
Dr. Rhonda: Plan to be in it for the long run. Doors will open eventually. Enjoy the wins. With time and effort, rewards will come.
What is the one thing you want readers to know about you?
Dr. Rhonda: The centenarians I’ve studied taught me that the experiences in life can be used to help others live better. And it all makes for great writing material.
Where can we find your book?
Dr. Rhonda: On Amazon, Barnes & Noble, and wherever books are sold.
Dr. Rhonda Spencer-Hwang has offered a Giveaway of her helpful worksheet to RAISING RESILIENT KIDS: 50 Kickstarter Questions for Dinner with Kids. Simply leave a comment to enter.
Jany Campana - Kidlit author 
I love this interview, This book is groundbreaking and easy to read, with a personal touch – but loaded with practical information and research. Something for everyone. Congratulations! Sheila
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Such an important topic for anyone parenting or working with kids in any capacity! This book sounds fascinating – I’ll definitely be picking up a copy ASAP. Thanks for the interview, Jany & Congratulations Dr. Rhonda. It seems like you’ve overcome a lot to get this book out in the world!
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In our current world with so many uncertainties, Dr. Rhonda Spencer-Hwang offers duplicatable choices for parents to keep their children on a path to thrive! As an Early Childhood Educator for 20+ years, I recommend this book.
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Thank you both for the great interview! Congratulations, Dr. Rhonda. I look forward to reading your important and timely book!
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Thank you for sharing! Need to remember to “enjoy the wins.”
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“Enjoy the wins” super thought to remember. The dedication to the writing process is definitely a long one…7 years! Thank you for this interview and looking forward to getting my hand on a copy of this book. Resilient Kids…? Yes, please!
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