The Journey Behind Gazill Hill
Overcoming Self-Doubt and Embracing Perseverance
When people see success, they rarely see the struggles that came before it. As I look at the success Gazill Hill is having, I realize that what took four years to bring to life wasn’t just about writing a children's book—it was a journey of perseverance, self-doubt, and growth. Ironically, the same theme of the book!
Let me take you back to where it all started. During the pandemic I had an idea for a children’s book and, like many authors, I wanted to pursue the traditional publishing route. I took a class on how to publish a book, wrote a detailed book proposal, and three manuscripts. For an entire year, I queried agents and traditional publishers only to be met with rejection after rejection. The constant “no” chipped away at my confidence, and eventually, I shelved the book. Self-doubt crept in, and I started to believe maybe my idea just wasn’t good enough.
That year of self-doubt turned into inaction. But deep down, I couldn't let go of the dream. So, I decided to take a different path—self-publishing. I hired an editor, thinking this would be the step that pushed me forward. But when the manuscript for Gazill Hill came back covered in suggested changes, I was overwhelmed. It felt like confirmation that my story wasn’t good enough. Once again, I shelved the book.
I found every excuse for why I was too busy to edit Gazill Hill. The truth? I was too afraid. I doubted my abilities, my story, and whether or not it would connect with readers. It wasn’t until late 2023, after constant encouragement from my colleagues, friends, and family, that I finally decided to make those edits. When I reread the manuscript, a year later, I realized something important: the storyline was good. It just needed tweaks to make it more engaging for children.
That realization ignited a spark in me. I hired an illustrator, Nejla Shojaie, who has been an incredible partner on this journey. Her patience with me as a first-time author was remarkable, and her illustrations brought the characters and world of Gazill Hill to life. With her help, I created a “dummy” version of the book in PDF format and shared an electronic version with early childhood and elementary educators.
One of my dearest friends, Miss Sheri Blades, read the book to her kindergarten students and the feedback I received from those young readers was invaluable. I used that feedback to refine the book even further. I created a second dummy hardcover version using an online photo book printing company.
And then, I had a moment that I'll never forget. I read Gazill Hill in front of elementary students, and I cried—tears of joy, but also tears of release. The journey had been long and filled with self-doubt, but here I was, sharing my story with those who mattered most—children.
More than that, I felt an immense pride in knowing my book reflects something deeply important to me—representation. As part of a bi-racial family, I believe it’s essential for all children to see themselves in the stories they read. Showing diverse characters and families in my work was a crucial part of Gazill Hill because representation matters.
And yet, even after that prideful moment, the negative self-talk returned. I thought to myself, This is the dumbest idea ever. Why did I spend so much time and resources on something so lame? But the very next day, a parent approached me, telling me how her daughter was inspired by my book and wanted to take the training wheels off her bike. That one moment reminded me why I did this.
The truth is, the four years it took to launch Gazill Hill were mostly spent overcoming my own self-doubt. But if there’s one thing I want to share with anyone who has a dream or an idea, it’s this: Get out of your head and just do it. I have no idea what I'm doing, but I have mentors advising me and a team of cheerleaders encouraging me. And that’s all you really need—the willingness to take the first step and the courage to keep going, even when doubt tries to hold you back.
So, like the main character in the book, push past the fear, embrace the unknown, and follow the path that leads to your dreams.
Brave every hill, face your fears, and enjoy the ride.
Gazill Hill is available on Amazon, or at your favorite book retailer. Click here>> for downloadable lesson plans and coloring pages.
About Claudette Shatto
Claudette, a tenured professor of business and entrepreneurship, enriches her teaching with over two decades of professional experience. Recognized as "Best Educator," Claudette authors children’s books that blend storytelling with leadership and entrepreneurial thinking, aimed at nurturing a growth mindset in young learners.
Beyond the college classroom, Claudette has developed impactful leadership curriculums for elementary students. A dedicated educator and mother of two boys, she is known for her ability to inspire and educate, committed to fostering potential in students of all ages.
Claudette's superpower is teaching, transforming complex concepts into engaging learning experiences.
