I finished publishing First Hungarian Words and The Plate! Yahoo! It sure feels good to complete projects.
My Dad was born in Hungary and came to the United States with his family when he was 10 years old. He learned English quickly but still spoke his native Hungarian fluently. I loved listening to him and grandma and grandpa speak Hungarian. Dad could even speak Hungarian in both “city” and “country” accents! 🙂 “City” Hungarian sounds almost like a cockney Hungarian. 🙂
Dad passed away Oct. 2018. Wow, it still hurts so much. But a friend of mine gave me the idea to do a picture book for language learning, so I created First Hungarian Words in Dad’s honor. Mom’s honor, too, as they were beloved life partners.
I enjoyed doing the illustrations so much. I love working with my digital art program, Fresh Paint. But Dad played violin, so I had to “paint” the violin through mists of tears.
The Plate is based on a true story. I laughed every time I remembered this story, so I had to create a book out of it.
Thanks to all who helped, including my language consultants, my kids, my husband, and my cover designers! Connie at https://www.contoonsart.com/ designed the cover for First Hungarian Words, and Rebekah at https://journeyofresilience.com/ designed the cover for The Plate.
Christa Upton Black Hills Picture Books Edgemont, SD 57735
