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Local author Candida Fuson Sullivan has been chosen as this year’s spokesman for the The Children’s Reading Foundation of Appalachia — Kentucky.

Sullivan will do interviews and make public appearances for the foundation.

“(I) will be their voice for all of the amazing events and programs they offer,” explained Sullivan. “I also try to get kids interested in literacy.”

Sullivan began writing 10 years ago after the birth of her son.

She has published three books.

Her first two books, Underneath the Scars and Zippy and the Stripes of Courage were on the Amazon Best Sellers List, number one on the Hot Releases and received a five-star Reader’s Favorite reviews, as well as being a finalist for the Reader’s Favorite Award.

Both books are nominated for the Christian Small Publisher Book of the Year Award for 2013. Voting is open until the end of March at http://www.christianpublishers.net/13votes/.

Her newest release — Zippy’s Big Difference — was on the Best Seller’s List and was number one on Hot New Release before it was even released due to preorder sales.

Sullivan read her new Zippy book at Saturday’s Dr. Seuss event at Middlesboro Mall.

Sullivan recently signed a contract for a new adult book and is also working on a new Zippy book.

Sullivan was born with Amniotic Band Syndrome (ABS). ABS is a rare condition caused by string-like bands in the amniotic sac. The constriction from the bands can result in scarring, amputation and in severe cases, death of the baby. Sullivan’s hands, foot and arm were affected by ABS.

Despite the trauma from ABS and the constant modifications she makes to her life to compensate for her differences, Sullivan uses her condition to help others by encouraging them to celebrate their differences.

“God blessed me to live, when so many die. I survived the trauma. I was not cursed with scars, but rather blessed with life,” said Sullivan. “All of my books offer hope and encouragement.”

Sullivan said she has a desire to help others. Since her books released in 2011, she has visited over 40 schools in seven counties.

She also shares her stories through her blog at http://underneaththescars.blogspot.com/, through her website at http://www.candidasullivan.com/, through twitter at https://twitter.com/CandidaSullivan and on Facebook at https://www.facebook.com/pages/Candida-Sullivan/259832284064577.

 Sullivan’s books are available online or locally at Book Haven and Downtown Radiology in Middlesboro, The Village Shop in Harrogate, Tenn., and at the Claiborne County Library in Tazewell, Tenn.

Sullivan may be contacted at candidasullivan@yahoo.com for an autographed copy.

Reach Reina P. Cunningham at 606-248-1010, ext. 205, rpcunningham@civitasmedia.com