Today we are very excited to share an interview with Author Karla Clark (I Know Things)!
Meet the Author: Karla Clark
Karla Clark wanted to be an author when she was a child…then she wanted to be an artist. She feels blessed to be working as both as an adult. Karla has written novels, short stories, and numerous picture books. She lives in Rockford, Illinois, with her husband and son. When not writing, she is busy creating decoupage collages and digital art that she sells online and at art shows.
About the Book: I Know Things
Celebrate the brilliance of young minds in this joyful, empowering picture book that reminds children they know more than they realize and are ready to take on the world.
We all know that kids are constantly learning and growing in their understanding of the world around them. But what about all the things they already know? With playful affirmations and a lively narrator, this book announces in a big, joyful way all the many things kids understand. The examples range from small and insignificant to deep and everlasting: that a cuddle can speak louder than words, that skipping can chase away the blues, that adults don’t have all the answers. The narrator also embraces the fact that there’s so much more to come—more life to be experienced, more learning to gained.
Perfect for back-to-school, graduation, or any other time of transition in a child’s life, this empowering read will remind kids who might be nervous or worried that they are ready to take on whatever comes their way!
~Author Chat~
YABC: What sparked your interest in writing about this topic?
My 8-year-old granddaughter (to whom the book is dedicated). When she was seven, she told me something about the stratosphere, and I responded: “You know a lot for a little thing.” She replied back, “I may little, but I know things.” My mind grabbed onto that comment right away, and I reflected on how little children are always learning, are always being taught. I wanted to celebrate all that they already know.
YABC: How much of your research comes from firsthand experience versus secondary sources?
This book came completely from firsthand experience—from my own childhood and from the children in my life.
YABC: Who do you imagine as your ideal reader for this book?
The publisher selected the age group of 4-7 years. Boys and girls—even a bit younger and older might enjoy the book.
YABC: What steps do you take to ensure the language is age-appropriate?
I sometimes refer to a wonderful book, the Children’s Writer’s Word Bookby Alijandra Mogilner and Tayopa Mogilner (Writer’s Digest Books, 2nd edition, 2006). This books assists authors in choosing age- and grade-appropriate words. But I am a firm believer in introducing children to new words and big words. In my new picture book, I use the word “proboscis.”
YABC: How do you make sure the book is both informative and engaging for your intended audience?
My granddaughter is my first beta reader and she is brutally honest! She’s quick to point out where I got something wrong.
YABC: What other topics are you interested in exploring in future projects?
I am currently working on a middle grade novel. That genre is fun! My agent is currently shopping a couple of picture books. I am always interested in topics that help children to lead their best lives. I love friendship stories, forgiveness stories, and fitting in stories.
YABC: What’s one fact or story from the book that you’re especially excited for readers to discover?
Just how much they already know and how smart they are!
YABC: What word do you have trouble overusing?
The word “very.” I conduct a “search and find” to identify problem words like “very,” “really,” and “suddenly.” When the word “very” is used as an adverb, it can often be removed and then the verb can be replaced with a stronger one. For example: The sentence, “He ran very fast,” can be improved by writing, “He sprinted.”
YABC: What is your favorite reading space?
I love to read in bed or else on my backyard patio. But I’ll read anywhere and everywhere!
YABC: How do you plan to celebrate the launch of your book?
This is my eighth picture book and I try to do something different for each launch. This year, I am putting up a tent in a community space in our neighborhood to sell and sign books. I rented an ice cream truck and will have face painting. My granddaughter will sit in a homemade booth and draw portraits for people. It’s my first outside launch party so I’m praying for good weather!
YABC: What hobbies do you enjoy?
In addition to writing, I am also an artist. I create paper collages and digital art. I sell at local art fairs and through my website —karlaclarkauthor.com
YABC: What is your favorite holiday or tradition and why?
I love Christmas for all it’s wonder and magic—the Christian traditions, the food, family, friends, decorations, Christmas cards, cookies, music, the tree, and the merriment! The season helps me feel like a child again!
Title: I Know Things
Author: Karla Clark
Illustrator: Thaís Mesquita
Release Date: July 14, 2026
Publisher: Worthy Kids
Genre: Self-Esteem & Self-Reliance, New Experience
Age Range: 4 to 7 years
