While other children are watching TV on a Saturday morning, Northwoods Elementary student Stephanie Gorbounov might be at a book signing.

The Cary third-grader wrote “The Little Happy Bird” when she was 6, and now her book is available on Amazon.

The story follows Little Bird, who is bored. When his mother suggests that he go visit his friend, Bear, Little Bird is worried that he might not have fun on his journey. But along the way, he meets many other animals who become his friends.

Stephanie began writing when she entered a writing contest through the public library as a first grader. She won – and she hasn’t stopped writing since.

Her father, Alex, took an interest in her work and searched for a publisher. He found Tate Publishing & Enterprises, and by June, Stephanie was a published author.

Stephanie’s mother, Severa, said she has read to her daughters every night since they were very young. Here, she talks about Stephanie’s book.

Q: Does Stephanie continue to write stories in her free time?

Yes. Last night, she sat down at the computer and wrote a Halloween story. She gets inspired, and next thing you know, she has written a new story.

She has written another Little Bird and Bear book – a sequel. It has different characters and a new story. We will wait to see how this book does and then look into publishing.

Q: Who illustrated her book?

The publisher did the illustrations for “The Little Happy Bird.” She liked them, and the characters are appealing to young children.

Q: What else does Stephanie like to do when she is not writing books?

She loves to play outside with her friends and catch bugs, which she brings into the house. She has also started gymnastics, so she flips and does cartwheels everywhere.

Stephanie loves animals; she wants to be a veterinarian when she grows up. She enjoys playing with her cat, Tiggy.

Just like her character, Little Bird, Stephanie likes to make all kinds of friends. She is crazy about meeting new people and trying exciting new things. She never sits still. When she does, I know something is wrong.

Q: How do you support your daughter as a published author?

I am so happy for her and so proud. My husband does his share, and I do mine. We contact book stores to schedule book signings, and we hope to open a page for her with Amazon.