Today, Feathered Quill reviewer Diana Coyle is talking with Brandon Moore, author of Bridget Kimble Learns Self-Control.

FQ: One of the first things I do when I read a book by an author I’m unfamiliar with is read the author’s bio to get to know them better. Would you please tell us a few things about yourself so that new readers, like myself, can learn about you?

MOORE: Hello, my name is Brandon Moore, I am a retired Army Veteran from Wilson NC. I currently reside in Fayetteville, NC with my wife and two kids. Reading and writing have always been a hobby of mine. My love for storytelling, thanks to the military, my uncles, stepdad (RIP) and my Great Uncle Isaac (RIP), has given me the extra push to become an author. Teaching my kids lessons about life inspired me to write Bridget Kimble Learns Self-Control. I hope it inspires a generation of kids to become accountable for their actions and learn to control their emotions.

FQ: Can you please tell our readers a brief synopsis of your book, Bridget Kimble Learns Self-Control, and what specifically makes your book unique?

MOORE: Sure! Bridget Kimble Learns Self-Control is a fun and engaging children's book that follows Bridget, a young girl who learns a valuable lesson about how to manage her emotions and actions in a stressful situation. As she navigates the situation, she discovers how self-control can help her make a better decision, change the outcome of the situation, and achieve her goal. The book is designed to teach kids the importance of patience, thoughtfulness, and mindfulness in a way that is accessible and entertaining.

FQ: I loved how well-written Bridget Kimble Learns Self-Control was and how you decided to use the storyline to teach children about using self-control. What made you choose self-control as the central theme of this story?

MOORE: In 2021, my daughter was about to start Pre-K. During that time, I thought about some of the challenges she might face going to school during COVID. I created the character Bridget Kimble and thought about some lessons I would like my kids to learn. I thought of many titles and one really resonated with me, Bridget Kimble Learns Self-Control. I wrote the story and initially worked with my brother to develop the character Bridget. In 2024, I found an amazing illustrator who took the initial drawings of Bridget and made her into the character you see on the cover of the book. His vision took my words from black and white into color and the rest is history.

FQ: When can your anxious readers expect your next book to be available and can you give us a quick synopsis of it? 

MOORE: I'm so excited that readers are eager for the next book! This most definitely tells me that I am going in the right direction. At this moment I do not have a timeline for the next book,  but what I can tell you is I am considering writing a spin off using one of the characters from Bridget Kimble Learns Self-Control. Specifically Ryan Studdabaker, so continue to follow me for more updates.

FQ: Where did you look upon for inspiration for writing this book? 

MOORE: Great question and the answer is simple, from within. Everyone has a story inside lying in waiting to be evoked. Once the writer decides what genre the body of work falls in, you just start.

It's the why factor. My why, for wanting to write a book for my kids was all the inspiration I needed. Besides, I think that it's pretty cool to be able to provide my kids and the world, using my imagination and observation, a character and an actionable step to help manage one's impulses and emotions. It is a crucial skill for kids, so I wanted to find a way to make this lesson fun and relatable.

FQ: What made you want to be a published author?

MOORE: Becoming a published author has always been something I've dreamed of, but it wasn't until 2021 that I realized that it was something I really wanted to do. Now yes, it took me 3 years to publish my first book, but because I actually went through with it. I do not feel bad about the wait, everything happens exactly the way it is supposed to. I am a firm believer of that. Also leaving something behind that my kids can always remember and be proud of is important to me.

FQ: Please tell us what is your writing routine like?

MOORE: My writing routine has definitely evolved over time, but I’ve found a rhythm that works well for me. I like to keep things flexible, but there are a few key elements that help me stay focused and productive.

First, I usually set aside specific time blocks during the day to write. For me, mornings tend to be the most productive, so I try to get up early before the day gets busy. I’ll spend the first 30 minutes just brainstorming or reviewing what I’ve written so far. This is usually the time when I make sure I’m aligned with the message and theme of the book.

Once I’ve done a quick check-in, I dive into the writing. I typically aim for a set word count, but I don’t stress if I don’t hit it every single day. The most important thing for me is consistency, so even if I can only write for 30 minutes, I try to do something every day.

I also make sure to take breaks. Writing for long stretches without stepping away can lead to burnout or frustration, so I’ll take breaks to recharge—whether it’s a walk, reading, or even just grabbing a cup of coffee. The key is to not pressure myself into long hours of non-stop writing. Creativity flows better when there’s room to breathe.

Additionally, I like to review and revise as I go. I’m not one to write everything out and then come back to edit later. Instead, I prefer to tweak sections as I progress, which keeps me feeling engaged with the material and ensures the writing stays fresh and cohesive.

Overall, it’s about creating a routine that works with my natural energy levels and finding ways to stay connected to the story. Some days are more productive than others, and that’s okay—I’ve learned that writing is a journey, and it’s okay to pace myself as long as I keep moving forward.

FQ: To wrap up our interview, is there anything you would like to add to tell our readers? 

MOORE: Thank you so much for this opportunity to share a bit about Bridget Kimble Learns Self-Control and my journey as an author. To all the readers, I want to say that writing this book has been a labor of love, and my hope is that it provides both children and adults with valuable tools to foster personal growth and emotional intelligence.

For the parents and educators out there, I believe that teaching self-control is something we can all benefit from, and I hope the story of Bridget can spark meaningful conversations with kids about how they can manage their emotions and choices. The book isn't just about learning self-control -- it's about understanding that it's okay to make mistakes, as long as we take the time to reflect and improve.

And to everyone who has supported me along the way, thank you from the bottom of my heart. Writing is a journey, and I'm grateful to have the chance to share it with you. I'm excited for the future and the opportunity to continue creating stories that help young readers navigate the world with more confidence and kindness.

Stay tuned for more books, and keep nurturing that sense of curiosity and growth in the little ones in your life!

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