Meet Claudia
What inspired you to write Bajette’s Balloon?
At the end of those 3 days. I handed it to a professional editor or who had big children’s book publishing house experience and with minor grammatical fixes, she gave me two thumbs up!
How do you see Bajette’s Balloon impacting families, classrooms, and communities?
It will lift many spirits with the magic of smile stickers, leaving a lasting impression. It will create connections and bring awareness to people around us. It will teach that giving is receiving. This book is the ultimate gift I can give and I am so proud to share it with our future generation.
Can you tell us more about your parents’ influence on your life and this book?
My parents always made sure my friends felt included—whether it was a trip to NYC or a sports event, they never let anyone spend a dime. Even when my mom was at her sickest, she sent my siblings and me on scavenger hunts for special candies just so she could make goodie bowls for the nurses and staff. Giving was simply who they were, and that spirit is at the heart of this book.
What’s next for Bajette’s Balloon?
Oh, that balloon has many adventures in store for us! Bajette’s Balloon will be traveling around the US to classrooms, libraries, events, and bookstores, and I can’t wait to hear and share the stories we received. The impact is what truly matters!
Was there a moment when you knew the book was complete or “just right”?
The constant generosity of my parents was a gift to me, my brother Michael, and my brother Bobby. We saw them open their hearts to everyone around them without thinking about it. We are all different as siblings, but our strong common thread is that we have that natural instinct to give, just like our parents did.
