David Klochko has been a real estate agent for 15 years, and now he’s a self-published author on the side. What started as making up stories to tell his children became two children’s books: “Fly High, Baby Dragon” and “When the Moon Sleeps, Do You Think He Dreams?”
Klochko lives in Towson with his wife, Laura, and their children — Valentina (5) and Lucas (1).
This interview was edited for length and clarity.
What led you to start writing books?
I was on a long car ride with my daughter, and she asked me to tell her a story. The first story that popped into my head was about a baby dragon that was struggling to learn to fly. She liked the story so much that she kept asking me to tell her the baby dragon story. I decided to put it down on paper, and I really liked the process of writing. It’s become a passion of mine.
What are some of the challenges of self-publishing your own books?
As a self-published author, especially in the children’s book world, you have to go in with the understanding that you’re likely never going to see the money you put into [your books] again. Parents like to stick with what they know. If you’re not writing for a specific market, it’s hard to sell a book. It’s also very hard to get your books into libraries and stores. Most retailers take a wholesale discount of profits from books, but that will leave you in the red. And if you’re self-publishing, you’re more than likely working a full-time job, which is what I do, on top of having a family.
What kinds of lessons do you try to teach through your books?
At the time of my first book, my daughter was struggling with the idea of trying things she couldn’t do. She didn’t want to try anything she couldn’t do because it was too hard. I wanted to impart a lesson about dealing with the emotional struggles that come with trying things you can’t accomplish the first time, the importance of perseverance and of knowing when to walk away and try again later.
Is there anything that you want your kids learn from you as they grow up?
When I was growing up, whenever I encountered something that was too difficult for me, I just stopped. “I know what I’m good at … I’m just going to be good at, you know, what I know.” I play out these moments in my head sometimes where it’s like, “Man, I wish I would have just not given up.” So, I want to make sure that my kids know that it’s OK to fail. But, you know, try, try, try before you give up.
Family Favorites
Meal: Taco Tuesdays
Local Spot: Pepe’s on Falls Road
Vacation Spot: Ocean City
Family Activity: Cooking or baking together
Book: “Room on the Broom” by Julia Donaldson
