Samantha Olivia Soper was born on April 14, 2010, in Amsterdam, New York. She is one of three children. She pours her heart into writing stories that will reach the hearts of children all over the world. Her love of writing started at the age of six, when she won first place in a writing contest held by her primary school. At age seven, she published a 2‐in‐1 book, “Hey You, Be You,” and “We Are Superheroes.” Her stories are inspirational with unique and colorful characters. Samantha has a special spark for life with big dreams of writing and illustrating more books in the future.
Exclusive Interview
Interview with Eight-Year-Old Author Samantha Soper
Please tell our readers a little about each or your books.
“Hey You, Be You,” is about accepting who you are and not being afraid to be yourself. “We Are Superheroes,” is about being a good person. The book describes the characteristics of a good person. In both books I created characters just like me and my friends, bright and unique.
What inspired "Hey You, Be You," and "We Are Superheroes"?
My friends inspired me to write “Hey You, Be You,” and “We Are Superheroes.” I accept them for who they are and at the same time they help me become who I should be, myself.
Which book is your favorite? Why?
My favorite book is “Hey You, Be You.” I feel like it speaks to the reader and people can really relate to the characters in the story. After all, who would we be if we weren’t ourselves?
Where do you get your ideas for your stories?
The idea to write “Hey You, Be You,” came from what I’m seeing at school – the pain and frustration kids face every day for simply being different. “We Are Superheroes,” was a colorful and fun way to teach others about the qualities a good person holds. So, I had this idea to create a superhero that embodies each of those qualities. The superhero on the front cover is wearing a rainbow colored cape that represents each superhero in my story.
Who are your favorite children's book authors?
My favorite author is Mo Willems. We read stories every night and we always read at least one Piggie and Gerald book. The books are about two friends written in a conversational style. We always read them together. I’m Gerald and my Mom is Piggie. We change our voice to really bring the characters to life. My Gerald voice is really low and Mom’s Piggie voice is really high. Before bedtime we read these books to my little sister and little brother and it always makes them laugh. As a 2nd grader I’m really starting to like books written by author Judy Blume. I just finished “Freckle Juice,” and I can’t wait to start a new one!
Besides writing what else do you like to do for fun?
When I’m not writing, I love hanging out with my friends and family. I enjoy most everything including dance, softball, soccer, hunting, fishing, camping, four-wheel riding, drawing, painting, and reading.
Can we expect more books from you in the future?
Absolutely! I’m always writing. I have a couple more books I’m working on now. I hope to write a new book every year.
An interview with Samantha’s Mom & Dad:
Were either of you guys avid readers or writers growing up?
Mom/Nicole Soper – When I was growing up I was in a book club. I received a new Dr. Seuss book every month. I have always loved reading and writing. I keep a journal and still do to this day.
Dad/Dan Soper – We had “book it” when I was a kid. BOOK IT motivates children to read by rewarding their reading accomplishments with praise, recognition and pizza. I read a lot when I was growing up because of the incentive that came with it.
Did you guys read to Samantha a lot when she was very young?
We have always read to Samantha. Reading is a part our bedtime routine.
What do you guys do to foster her creativity and encourage her to keep writing?
We teach Samantha to rely on herself, and to be confident about her ideas. We encourage her to stand up for what she thinks, feels, and believes. We remove all pressure and allow her to be free in her creative thinking and just let her creativity flow. We value her imagination by giving her the resources for creative growth. We encourage her in everything she does, provide her with unlimited support while being her biggest fans.
What advice would you give to other parents who see talent in their own children?
Advice we would give to other parents would be to embrace the kid you’ve got. We all have big dreams for our kids, but it’s important to recognize every child is unique with their own ambitions, desires, and goals. If you see talent, seek out materials and supplies that can help your child explore their interests further. Be there to support them, they are kids and they can’t do it without you.
“Hey You, Be You,” is dedicated to anyone who’s ever felt different from anyone else. The story focuses on diversity. It’s about embracing who each individual person is and not being afraid of what might make someone different from anyone else.
“We Are Superheroes,” is about being a good person. It’s meant to help others understand that good is not a thing you are, it’s a thing you do.
Samantha’s book can be purchased at the following locations…
Mysteries on Main Street – 144 West Main Street, Johnstown NY 12095
Market Block Books – 290 River Street, Troy NY 12180
Connect with the author at: samantha.soper@yahoo.com