When life provides you with inspiration, it’s time to make a story out of it.
For Ky Garvey, writing is a part of her life that has come naturally. As a mum of two boys who live with Autism Spectrum Disorder and ADHD, Ky has drawn upon her own lived experiences and channelled them into her writing, producing a children’s book called Easy Peasy.
It’s an achievement that has taken some time, but one Ky is extremely proud of.
“I was on my own with the boys for 10 years, so all of the key moments in their lives, going through all the milestones and of course, school,” Ky said. “I had amazing support from my parents and they were great role models for my boys as well. So everything I have been through has been a big drive to now do things I wouldn’t normally do.”
Easy Peasy is Ky’s first picture book and is inspired by her son, who used to take his skateboard to bed with him when he was little. There’s also a nod to her father, who used to take Ky roller skating when she was little.
“I thought it was so cute and I wanted to put it into a story,” she said. “So in Easy Peasy, Ruby gets her roller skates for her birthday and the first night she’s so in love with them that she takes them to bed with her. But the next day when she tries to learn and she has a few tumbles, they go into the cupboard. Although Ruby wants to be able to do it, she also learns that sometimes you do need some help.
“I wanted to have a story that was fun and upbeat, but also share the message that it’s okay to ask for help, no matter how old you are.”
“Easy Peasy”: A Heartfelt Picture Book Journey
What prompted Ky to head down the writing path?
“I think I’ve just always been a writer at heart,” Ky said. “I went to Lawnton State School and in year one, we made a little book, which was just out of cardboard, illustrated ourselves and covered in contact. That was the most amazing thing for me as a little six-year-old.
“I’ve just kept that dream going my whole life, so it’s nice to actually see it come to fruition as an adult with a published book.”
Along with putting pen to paper, Ky has a podcast called Totally Lit where she chats with authors about new releases, writing projects and their writing process.
The biggest supporter in her life is Ky’s husband Mike.
“We married in 2020 and he is a wonderful stepfather to my sons and treats them as if they are his own,” she said. “Our first Christmas we had together, he bought me a laptop to encourage me on my writing journey. It was his way of showing me he believed in me and my writing talent. He also very generously edits the podcast every week. I wouldn’t be able to do any of the things I do now without his love and support.”
Follow ‘Ky Garvey – Author & Podcaster’ on Facebook. Listen to the Totally Lit podcast on Apple, Spotify or wherever you get your podcasts.
For copies of Easy Peasy, visit EK Books website.
Read more stories from The North Lakes Guide print magazine here:
- In the North Lakes Loop
- What’s Hot Around Town
- Eco Eve: Living a More Environmentally Friendly Life!
- Local Authors Put the Spotlight on Crime Fiction
- Pioneering Women Behind Murrumba Downs
- Six Things to Enjoy at Lake Eden
- Get Ready to Jump in for Some Fun
- Exploring Teen Activities at North Lakes Library
- Four Must-Try Milkshake Spots Around North Lakes
- The Benefits of Stepping Away from Social Media
- Petrie Set to Become Hub of Sporting Activity
- Dance to Your Own Beat…in the Dark!
- Lunch, Laughs and Making a Difference
- A Feast of Fun and Food
- Engines Roar for Mental Health at Cruise Event