By Emily Williams
In October of last year, Vestavia Hills’ Catherine Conrad Waters published her first children’s book ahead of the holiday season.
“‘Twas the Night That Began Christmas” plays off the rhyme and verse of Clement Moore’s famous “‘Twas the Night Before Christmas.” Rather than focusing on Saint Nicholas or the promise of presents, Waters’ book focuses on the reason for the season: the birth and life of Jesus Christ.
The book has been published by SBA Books, based in Daphne, and features richly colored illustrations by Bill McCracken.
More than a year later, Waters can be found signing copies around town at events such as Vestavia Hills’ Deck the Heights or in local stores such as Smith’s Variety. The book also was released in Spanish in October.
For Waters, writing the book came easily. What has been the biggest challenge has been navigating the sales world.
“Just because a book is in a store doesn’t mean anyone is going to look at it,” she said, but prayer has been a constant form of support for her.
Sales might be a challenge, but Waters is up for it. She’s overcome much more over the past few years.
In 2015, Waters went in for a spinal fusion and woke up from surgery to find that she was paralyzed from the waist down.
“There were unexpected complications and doctors did not know if I would walk again or not,” she said.
Through perseverance and prayer, Waters learned to walk again despite having no feeling in her legs or feet – a feat she said her doctors couldn’t explain.
When Christmas came around that year, she was out walking and talking with God, thinking about how great it would be if there was a children’s book like “’Twas the Night Before Christmas,” but one about the birth and life of Jesus Christ.
“It could be a way for families to share the true meaning of Christmas together every year,” she said.
The more she thought about it, the more the words began to take form in her mind.
“Honestly, the writing part is the fun,” she said. “I enjoy playing with words in my mind and the challenge of selecting the best ones to use.”
As a former teacher and current assistant principal at Crestline Elementary School, Waters isn’t new to the artistry and impact of children’s books.
Before her career in school administration, she taught at Crestline, as well as schools in Maryland, Tennessee and Virginia, for grades from first to fifth.
“I personally love rhyme,” Waters said. “Research even shows that it is one of the most important skills for children as they learn to read.
“At the same time, books with an important message, strong characters and rich vocabulary provide children with more than just a story. Beautiful pictures draw children in and help them develop an appreciation for art.”
As the holiday season rolls along, Waters will continue to market her book, signing copies at Samford University’s Legacy League Christmas Home Tour on Dec. 12, and on Dec. 15 at Mountain Brook Community Church’s 2019 Christmas Piano Concert.
To purchase a copy of “‘Twas the Night That Began Christmas,” visit catherinewaters.com.
