MOMENT TO SHARE WITH Desislava Chevallier
Hi Desi, thank you for agreeing to participate in this interview.
1. Tell me a little bit about yourself and your background?
I am a Pilates and yoga enthusiast, a book lover, and a mom of two. I’m passionate about sparking children’s curiosity for movement and helping parents and caregivers introduce joyful, everyday activities into their kids’ lives.
I was born and raised in Bulgaria and came to New York for undergrad and MBA. I have a corporate job, but always carve out time for creative ventures!
2. What have you written and what sparked the idea for your book? Who or what inspired you to create it?
My love for children, books and movement led me to a creative venture, my first ever children’s book “It’s Not Pilates!” I became a new mom during the pandemic and found myself thinking about how to build a community around movement. When a friend suggested how fun it would be to explore Pilates for kids, it was like a lightbulb went off. I wrote the story in 2021 without any plans to publish it. Then I came across the portfolio of the very talented illustrator Stefana Argirova, and I knew it was time to bring the book to life.
3. Can you give us an insight of your characters? Any sequel?
It’s Not Pilates! is a playful story about a sports loving girl who wants to teach a Pilates class for animals. When no one shows up, she takes matters into her own hands! The book is light, fun, and is sure to make little readers laugh while trying new movements.
My daughter Andrea is the inspiration behind the book, she is also its main character – spunky, mischievous and determined. And what a better place to practice mindful movement than nature with all its curious creatures! I am already working on the sequel, stay tuned!
4. What’s the most surprising thing you learned while writing your book/s?
I learned that when you have an idea and you keep feeding it, the idea will take a life on its own and will take you places.
5. Where can people find your book/s?
“It’s Not Pilates!” is available on Amazon worldwide, as well as at any bookstore with online ordering.
I have an Instagram account, where I share knowledge about Pilates and yoga for kids and how parents can get their kids to move and wiggle and have fun.
Goodreads – It’s Not Pilates!Amazon – It’s Not Pilates!Instagram – @desislava.chevallierIt was a great privilege for me to get to interview Desi, who has inspired me in many different ways. Thank you Desi!!! Good Luck with everything!
P.S. Here is my book review of Desi’s book “It’s Not Pilates!” – 5.0 out of 5 stars A Fun and Quirky Introduction to Pilates
