For those who grew up watching the daily show, Top O’ the Day, Barbara McKay is a household name. From helping her viewers in the kitchen to reporting on the tops of volcanos, Barbara McKay has truly lived a storied career. In her latest book, Coming Home: Recipes and Reflections from a Life in the Spotlight, Barbara shares reflections, wisdom, and recipes from her forty years of hosting television shows, raising children, meeting her heroes and inspirations, and teaching generations to love Southern cooking. From her simple, delicious recipes to her love of life, deep faith, and ability to connect with nearly anyone, this life well-lived will both encourage and inspire readers.
Barbara on working with SPARK Publications
SPARK Publications fully educated me on all that it takes to write a successful book and then designed it beautifully. Their experience and knowledge led me every step of the way. After the book was printed, their marketing and promotions skills brought many opportunities to introduce my book to a huge audience.
Is there a particular moment that SPARKed your interest in writing a book?
For many years, my children heard and often experienced my against-all-odds adventures. For five years, they had been asking me to write a book; not just for them, but because they believe my stories and outlook on life will inspire and entertain others. They also wanted a collection of my favorite easy-to-prepare recipes after forty years of sharing them in the media. The book happened for them, and now for all.
What surprises did you encounter on your road to writing and publishing the book?
As I began to write, I watched videos of my work and went through newspaper clippings and memorabilia, and I got to relive and appreciate the moments even more. The experience also triggered memories I had completely forgotten until going back in time. It was so meaningful and made me even more grateful for the miracles in my life. I am so very thankful that my children encouraged me to do this.
How did SPARK Publications help in championing and publishing your book?
I could not have done this without the help of a fantastic publisher. There is far more to writing a book than you can imagine. SPARK kept me organized and on task while also cheering me on. I deeply appreciate their staff of wonderful designers, editors, photographers, and more to make the book the best it can be. After the book creation, they continued to facilitate the marketing and promotions aspect, creating the best opportunities and materials to let the world know about me and my book.
Now that your book is published, are there any experiences or goals you are looking forward to?
I am so excited about being out and about, sharing my book with the wonderful people who have made my career possible. I’m also eager to meet new people, hear their stories, and hope somehow my book inspires and helps them make their dreams come true.
What advice do you have for other authorpreneurs and aspiring writers?
There are so many joyful experiences that continue to happen in my life since beginning this book. If anyone is thinking about writing their story, my advice is to get started NOW.
Tell us about your future plans. What’s next for you?
While enjoying my best life with my family and friends, I am very excited about sharing my book through my blog and website as well as traveling and meeting people to hear their stories. I’m hoping my book will make a positive difference for them.
What does success mean to you?
For me, success is being remembered for leaving something positive, joyful, and inspiring behind when I go to heaven. I want people to smile when they think of me… to be glad I was a part of their lives.
Connect with Barbara
Website: https://www.barbaramckay.com/athome/
Facebook: BarbaraMckay
Instagram: simplybarbaramckay
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