Hey folks, let’s dive into a throwback story from 2010 when I decided to break into the publishing game with my children’s book, “In the High Blue Sky.” This wasn’t just any storybook; it was a tale about Fog, a little cloud with big ambitions, aiming to teach kids the value of being themselves. Here’s the kicker—I couldn’t get traditional publishers to touch it. Sound familiar?

So what did I do? I pivoted. Big time. In 2011, when apps were just starting to boom, I took matters into my own hands and turned the book into an app. This was my first crack at the iOS App Store, and let me tell you, it was a wild ride. I learned to code just for this, building the entire thing from scratch. Talk about diving in headfirst!

The app was more than just a digital book; it was interactive, giving kids a way to engage with the characters like never before. Think of it as the book’s cooler, tech-savvy cousin. It worked. The app found its audience, and I found a new skill. But as all tech goes, it didn’t last forever. By 2016, my first coding attempt couldn’t keep up with iOS updates, and the app got booted from the store. Tough break, right?

But here’s the part where I double down instead of bowing out. With years more experience under my belt and a landscape that’s now embracing indie creators more than ever, I’m rebuilding the app. It’s not just a revamp; it’s a total overhaul. And with self-publishing gaining traction, I’m also ready to hit up publishers once more.

Why am I doing this? Because the game has changed, and so have I. This book turned app turned soon-to-be relaunched phenomenon is more than a project; it’s a testament to sticking it out and adapting.

Stay tuned as I take “In the High Blue Sky” back into the stratosphere. We’re not just rehashing old ideas here—we’re setting new benchmarks. And who knows? This could be the playbook on how to turn rejection into a multi-platform success. Let’s get it!