Henderson native authors children's book

Nov. 15—RALEIGH — Minding your manners never goes out of style.

That's why Henderson native Crystal F. Rice opted to highlight the subject for her debut children's book, "The Little Lady Finds Her Manners," which was released earlier this year and is available for purchase at Amazon.com.

"I hope this book will help younger readers understand that it is never too early to start learning manners, and for older readers that it is never too late to relearn manners," Rice said.

Rice initially drew inspiration for the book's motif several years ago while working in pediatric health care.

The Raleigh resident graduated from Northern Vance High School in 2005 before obtaining a degree in exercise science from Winston-Salem State University, where she marched with the Red Sea of Sound as a Scarlet Lace auxiliary dancer.

Now, Rice works as a clinical allergy specialist/coordinator for Triangle Sinus Center.

That part of Rice's biography doesn't shed much light on her desire to author a children's book though. The inclination for creative writing runs in the Rice family, stemming for Crystal from childhood trips to the Henderson library with her brothers Michael and Jonathan.

Crystal said her parents Brenda and Seamon always encouraged her to participate in as many things as possible until she found the talent that suited her best.

And those library trips? Brenda had the children write reports on the books they checked out.

"It amazes me how those principles granted me the privilege to become a children's book author," Crystal said.

Crystal follows in the footsteps of her mother and brothers, who have already had books published. Brenda wrote 2011's "Catch That Phrase: A Message Within A Message" and 2021's "Don't be Gripped by Fear." Michael authored "Today I Win Because Today I Live: From the Beginning, Volume 1 (Discover Greatness)" in 2016 and Jonathan wrote 2019's "#TagAnUndergrad: Prayers and Practical Guide for an Effective Undergraduate Experience."

Crystal's connection to writing centers on it being a personal journey, one no one else can replicate.

"I get to express my thoughts in a nonjudgemental space," Crystal said, "allowing more freedom to impact the world with an original composition. I still get the a-ha moment of how unique it is to share expressions of my colorful mind with the world."

The Little Lady

"The Little Lady Finders Her Manners" tells the story of The Little Lady, a sassy character on a mission to create a grand parade. But in the process, she loses sight of her manners as her family helps to get her back on track.

In a way, that mirrors Crystal Rice's development of the book, which she struggled to commit to writing before being motivated in 2020 to go all-in.

"Being a perfectionist can cause delays and enhance the vein of becoming your worst critic," Rice said. "I can speak for many when it comes to being your own worst critic. During the pandemic, I dedicated my time to perfecting my craft. It's a blessing to have a supportive family and friends throughout my journey as an author. It makes me want to thrive more when I know I'm surrounded by individuals that want me to succeed just as much as I do."

Rice grew up reading Dr. Seuss, The Berenstain Bears and "Amazing Grace," by Mary Hoffman, and later was influenced by Jane O'Connor's "Fancy Nancy" books.

Rice collaborated with illustrator Hallinson Pulido in bringing the vision for The Little Lady to life. As Rice noted, artistic imagery can be an essential part of rounding out a book.

Rice wanted The Little Lady to be as personal, prim and proper as possible, modeling the character after herself as well as her grandmothers and aunties.

"As a child, I didn't see many characters in books that showed little Black girls," Rice said. "This book expresses my mission to create a character of the same complexion as me; fuller facial features and thicker hair texture. I was specific about incorporating a loving Black family versus an impoverished, unloving family."

Pulido said sound communication with the author is necessary when making a book. That aspect came naturally for Rice, who meticulously crafted The Little Lady's manifestation and subsequent adventure.

"I have worked for many authors," Pulido said, "but Crystal is one of the best authors I have met in my entire career as an illustrator. She was always a very warm person, concerned about every detail, kind and respectful."

Pulido added that she's excited to see what other books Crystal dreams up, and Rice acknowledged more projects like "The Little Lady Finds Her Manners" could be coming in the future.

Describing the time frame in which she decided to fully devote herself to writing a children's book, Rice said once she started putting the appropriate amount of time and research in, everything fell into place and she hit the ground running.

"There will never be a right time to start working on your dreams," Rice said. "Just start!"

For "The Little Lady" updates and more, follow @authorcrystalrice on Instagram.