Good News Tucson - A Family Values Magazine

by Bethanie, 8th Grade

There’s a great new book out that covers the topics of bullying, modesty and friendship. Its title is Krissi Swan, Cover-Up Girl. This month I interviewed the author, Kristi Zitkus, and asked her about her book:

What inspired you to write Krissi Swan: Cover-Up Girl?

Two years ago, I read an article about how popular certain "trashy" novels were with teens. I took a look at one of them in the bookstore. What I saw on just one page was a mix of swear words, "sex, drugs, and rock 'n roll" situations, and an emphasis on looks and materialism. I decided to write an inspiring story that would send a more wholesome message to kids.

How important to you is it that girls dress modestly?

Very important! How a girl dresses sends a message to those around her and should reflect her dignity, not her "sexiness".

What inspired you to write a book about modesty?

When my kids were in school, I was continually reminded of the influence of Hollywood on the way teens dress, and on the choices that stores are promoting. I wanted to encourage girls to use common sense when they go shopping and choose clothes that are dignified and promote self-respect.

What can you tell us about your family?

I was born and raised in Wisconsin and graduated from Luther College in Iowa with a degree in music education. Tucson has been our home for the past 13 years. I am married and have 2 daughters, one son, and one granddaughter. Our beloved sheltie dog, Daisy, died this past year after giving us 11 wonderful years.

Your daughter's Cover-up Girl song is great! Can you tell me about her?

My daughter, Kasia, lives in the LA area. She is married and has one daughter. She helped so much as Krissi's story was unfolding. And the "frosting on the cake" for me was the song she wrote which makes this book more special than ever!

Are you going to write any more books about Krissi? I'd love to read any more books that come out!

Yes! I've been getting ideas from both young girls and moms about what issue to address next, especially topics like materialism and teen drinking.

What advice would you give to teenagers
that deal with peer pressure, bullying, and dressing appropriately?

Like Krissi did in the story, pray about it, and allow God to show you how to deal with any of these issues. Next, don't hesitate to enlist the aid of your family and friends. And remember this verse from the song, Cover-up Girl: "Be an original, just be yourself, it's okay. You can be beautiful, if you respect yourself today." Stay true to what you know is right and don't give in to the pressure to look or act like anyone else.

Where can YouthLink readers find Krissi Swan: Cover-Up Girl?

Go to www.coverupgirl.com and find all links to the major booksellers' websites to order. You'll also find a link to listen to the "Cover-Up Girl" song. There is also a link to email me, and I would really enjoy getting the reader's feedback. You can also find my book at the Gospel Supplies stores in Tucson.

YouthLink readers, I highly recommend checking this book out. Be sure to check out the Cover-up Girl website and listen to the song, too. You will definitely enjoy this!