Today, we have the pleasure of interviewing Sophia Carter-Parker, Author of the Book ‘Ready, Set, Go to Grandma’s.’
Hi, Please tell us about what it is that you do.
I am an award-winning educator who has spent the past three decades working with inner-city children. I was a classroom teacher for over twenty years, a school administrator for a couple of years, and for the past five years, I have been a school counselor. Although a professional educator’s work is extremely challenging, I can still proudly and amazingly say that after all of these years, I absolutely love my job! I believe that every day is a good day when I have the opportunity to cultivate and inspire beautiful minds.
Please tell us more about your journey.
I grew up in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, with my parents and two siblings. My parents were supportive and kind and also conscientious about maintaining structure in their household. So, for as far back as I can remember, I understood that my parents held expectations of me that required me to follow their directions and adhere to a pretty strict chore schedule. For a long time, when I left the house to hang out with friends, I had better make it back in the house before the city street lights came on in the evening. The thought of that structure still makes me smile and even laugh a bit today. Reflecting on my journey has shed a lot of light on why I think I have always been so focused and goal-driven.
I have always been inquisitive, a bit of a talker, and enjoyed social interactions. So, I have always loved school. In fact, I consider myself to be a lifelong learner. Consequently, I have been pretty successful in school. I have earned a Bachelor of Science degree in Business Administration and hold three Masters of Arts degrees: M.Ed. in Elementary Education, M.Ed. in Educational Administration, and an M.Ed. in School Counseling, respectively.
Growing up, I also had the good fortune of having a relationship and many fun experiences with many members of my extended family. Most importantly were the relationships with both my maternal and paternal grandmothers and also with my maternal great-grandmother. Each of my grandmothers has been deceased for many years now. However, thankfully, their memories live on in my heart and my mind. Some days, I get nostalgic, and their absence leaves a void that is hard to ignore. So, this book is a bit of an attempt to pay homage to my grandmothers.
Please tell us about your book, ‘Ready, Set, Go to Grandma’s.’
The purpose of writing the book was basically a way for me to pay homage to my grandmothers. I miss the physical presence of each of my grandmothers. I miss taking trips to their homes. I miss all of the little things that happened during my visits: conversations, hugs, kisses, laughter, eating delicious meals and sweet treats, going shopping, and going to church together. This book is designed to be a feel-good book for everyone, regardless of age. I wrote this book with love and intention. Before I signed off on every single page of the book, I made sure that I could see and feel love exude from the pages. So, with this second edition of the book, we made sure that the images were bold and vivid…almost in your face, as you turn each page!
Throughout the story, the narrator, young Cooper, shares many happy experiences of love and fun with his grandmother. The smiles, laughter, hugs, and sweet treats will force the reader’s soul to smile. 
What are the strategies that helped you become successful in your journey?
My childhood upbringing, love of learning, and my interest in trying new things have brought many wonderful opportunities and many positive outcomes in my life.
Any message for our readers.
The Latin phrase “Carpe diem,” which means “Seize the day,” is a pretty cool concept by which to live. As people read my book, “Ready, Set, Go to Grandma’s,” I hope it reminds them that every moment with loved ones is precious. So, enjoy the ride and treasure the simple moments.
Fantastic! So tell us, how can people find out more about you?
People can contact me at AuthorSophiaCarterParker@yahoo.com.
Thank you so much Sophia for giving us your precious time! We wish you the best for your journey ahead!