Meet Jen Pownall
Full Name:
Jennifer Anne Sterne-Pownall (Jennifer Pownall is fine – or JenPow to my friends!)
Where did you find out about Gumboot Books?
I first discovered Gumboot Books when I was registering for the 2008 Surrey International Writers’ Conference. As I perused the lists of people with whom I might meet for a blue pencil or pitching session, I came across the biography of Crystal Stranaghan. After a visit to the website of her publishing company I was certain that our shared vision of environmental responsibility and educational importance would mesh well together.
Why did you want to work with Gumboot Books?
When I had my meeting at the 2008 conference, my instincts about the possibility of an agreeable partnership were confirmed. I was impressed with the professional but approachable manner in which Crystal presented herself and her company. While no working relationship immediately developed a few chance meetings ensured that Gumboot Books was never that far from my mind as an option for the future. I learned more about the company and have continued to be impressed with its dedication to producing quality works developed with a conscientious approach.
What are you most excited about for this position?
As the new Creative Projects Columnist, I am eager to assist Gumboot Books as they take their progressive philosophy even further. By writing about a variety of interesting activities and projects for the individuals who visit the company’s website, I am often able to pair an ecologically friendly voice with innovative ideas. I feel like this is the perfect opportunity to bring together imagination, people, the environment, and technology – the four elements which are the cornerstones of Gumboot Books.
A bit more about Jen:
Amid the countless roles that I enjoy, my time identified as a writer and a child care provider has afforded me a wonderful chance to combine two life-time passions. Whether I am working on the manuscript for my children’s story, sorting through ideas to include in an upcoming activity book, or crafting an article for Under The Umbrella, I feel that my work plays an important part in my personal endeavors as an advocate of environmental mindfulness and quality programming for kids. I have had a few poems printed in local anthologies, but am still working towards my goal of being a published book author. I am hopeful about meeting that aim, partially because I am an optimistic and enthusiastic person by nature and also due to the fact that I regularly work at checking items off my ever-changing life list.
If I could ask you just one question it would probably be: what was your last adventure… and what will be your next?
