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Author spotlight: Rhonda Fischer

Find out how 'Randy Kazandy, Where Are Your Glasses?' came about – and more

By Kristen SchottPublished: April, 2010

I'm always talking about books, books, books, but what about the minds behind them? In an effort to show you a little bit more about the creative characters behind some of those much-loved, inventive, classic stories, I'm going to try working author interviews into my lineup.

This is my first, and there's no better way to begin than with Orange County author Rhonda Fischer, the brilliant mind behind "Randy Kazandy, Where Are Your Glasses?" which is shaping up to be a runaway hit. Fischer recently sat down with former first lady Laura Bush to talk about the wonders of this story, and the story also won the Seal of Excellence through Creative Child magazine, among other noteworthy accolades.

Now, it's my turn.


Fischer lives in Trabuco Canyon and is mother to four children:
Oliver, 28; Nicholas, 26; Sarah, 24; and Timothy 22.



KS: How long have you been writing?
RF: I have been writing since the fifth grade, in a diary. I never stopped. I used to write in lipstick quotes and poems on the mirrors when my kids were growing up. When they got older they used to write back. (My children) are my biggest inspiration and the air that I breathe.



KS: How did you come up with the idea for the book?
RF: I came up with the story when (my family and I) were snowed in one night and sitting around the fireplace. The kids' uncle, Randy Jacque, had to get two eye surgeries as a baby and had to wear glasses at a year and a half. He hated the glasses at first and had to learn to keep his glasses on. He actually went through 150 pair of eyeglasses as a child! The kids loved the story and Randy’s father called him Rootie Kazootie as a child. So, we decided to go with "Randy Kazandy" for the title.



KS: What's the best advice Randy can give for kiddies with glasses?
RF: Kids should wear their glasses with pride. Randy's motto, “I love being me,” is a message Randy wants kids to hold in their hearts. Randy wants kids to always keep the glasses in their case at night, never let anyone else wear their glasses and love who you are when you wear them. Love yourself just the way you are.



KS: Are you planning on making this into a series?
RF: Yes, I am planning to make this into a series. I have the next book almost ready ... (It is expected to) be ready next year.

KS: What's next for Randy?
RF: Next for Randy is Designer Randy Kazandy eyeglasses for kids. (The products) are in development now in Los Angeles.

For more on Fischer, check out randykazandy.com. And be sure to read my review of the book by clicking here.



Kristen Schott is OC Family's children's book editor. Be sure to check out "Storytime," my video book reviews, for more fun facts about stories you and your kiddies must read.


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