25 Jan 2017 Emily Wyatt: ‘Goodnight Little Rock’

Story and photos
by Callie Sterling

Little Rock native Emily Wyatt has released a children’s book that offers an entertaining representation of the Arkansas capital city that is also a feel-good read for young people and parents.

“I hope the book serves as a good representation of all the wonderful things the capital city has to offer,” Wyatt said. “I hope those who live in Little Rock use the book to reignite a passion for the city; and are reminded of all the great places right in their backyard.”

Although Wyatt wrote “Goodnight Little Rock” with young readers in mind, adults may find it engaging as well. The book was colorfully illustrated by Nathaniel Dailey. “The copy of the book is geared toward early readers, however, the illustrations make the book enjoyable for readers of any age,” she said.

Wyatt earned a bachelor’s degree in business administration in 2002 from the University of Central Arkansas. She was inspired to write her first book after reading two other similar children’s books centered on the cities of New Orleans and St. Louis.

“Having grown up in Little Rock, it was very easy to come up with a list of places I thought represented what the city had to offer both locals, as well as visitors.”

Wyatt hopes that “Goodnight Little Rock” will serve as a guide of the city to visitors.

The book highlights Little Rock landmarks such as Pinnacle Mountain, the Clinton Presidential Library and Park, the Arkansas Arts Center, the River Market, Central High School, the Governor’s Mansion, War Memorial Stadium, the Historic Arkansas Museum and Old Statehouse, the Little Rock Zoo and more.

The charming children’s book came together in a short period of time. Wyatt self-published her book beside a team at Ampersand that assisted her with her publishing needs. “Including editing the manuscript a handful of times, it took me about three months to write it; and the illustrations took four months to complete,” Wyatt said. “The process of writing this book was a positive one. Even though the book is self-published, I had a great team at Ampersand who helped me through the process.”

Although Wyatt does not see herself writing a second book in the near future, she is grateful for her opportunity to write “Goodnight Little Rock.”

“Since the book isn’t based on a character that I can continue to develop, I don’t have any immediate plans to write additional books,” Wyatt said. “I feel that I was very blessed to pursue this idea and paint the capital city in such a beautiful light.”

Wyatt is thankful for the vast support that her family and friends have shown while she brought “Goodnight Little Rock” to life. “My family and friends were tremendously supportive while writing the book,” Wyatt said. “I’ve spent countless hours marketing and getting the book into local retailers, as well as hosting book signings and events. During all of this, my friends and family have continued to encourage me.”

A lot of behind the scenes work has gone into Wyatt’s book writing journey. She has overcome new challenges with the help of her parents, Hern and Margie Northcutt. “My parents have been great,” Wyatt said. “My mom has driven to Dallas with me twice now to pick up the books from the printer. She always has copies of the book on hand and is my top salesperson. My dad has helped me learn the ropes of tax reporting and sales spreadsheets.”  

“Goodnight Little Rock” is available for purchase at The Museum of Discovery, The Crown Shop, PlayAway Gift Shop at Arkansas Children’s Hospital, the Clinton Museum Store and many other local vendors. The book can also be found on Amazon. For more information about Wyatt or “Goodnight Little Rock,” visit goodnightlittlerock.com.