At AuthorsWiki, we are privileged to have had the opportunity to connect with Marc Swift, a Author from Portugal Gois, whose unique voice and creative spirit shine through in their latest work, Leila and the Whispering River!. Their book, already making waves across leading platforms, invites readers into a world shaped by imagination, experience, and purpose.
Marc Swift, known as The Beekeeper Writer, is a British author, eco builder and beekeeper living in the mountains of central Portugal. After many years managing large construction projects and entrepreneurial ventures, he chose to step away from that world to live more simply and creatively. His life now centres around family, storytelling and nature — the heart of everything he writes.
Marc is the creator of Leila’s Light, a four-book children’s adventure series that blends imagination, humour and moral curiosity with deep respect for the natural world. His stories encourage young readers to think independently, laugh often and question everything.
Alongside his writing, Marc runs Mel da Terra, his sustainable honey brand inspired by his love of bees and the land around him. Through The Beekeeper Writer, he connects creativity, ecology and education, proving that art, imagination and nature can thrive side by side. His mission is to inspire a new generation of young storytellers to do the same.
In this conversation, the author opens up about the deeper motivations behind their storytelling, their personal and literary journey, and the lessons they’ve learned along the way. Whether you’re a fan of thoughtful writing or someone looking to understand the creative process, this interview promises valuable insight and inspiration.
AuthorsWiki: Apart from writing, what do you do for a living?
Marc Swift: When I’m not writing, I spend my time caring for bees and surveying properties. Beekeeping has become both my livelihood and a meditation — I produce Mel da Terra honey, which started as a small project and slowly grew into a meaningful part of my life.
I also design and restore small eco-friendly structures using natural materials like wood, stone, and lime. Working with the land and observing how nature balances itself has taught me patience and awareness — lessons that often find their way into my stories. I see no difference between livelihood and creativity; both are ways of expressing gratitude toward the earth and living simply yet purposefully.
AuthorsWiki: Tell us about your first book.
Marc Swift: My first book, Leila and the Mirror Tree, began as bedtime tales for my daughter, Leila. Over time, those little stories took on a life of their own and grew into a magical adventure for both children and adults.
The story follows a young girl who begins to sense that the world around her is more alive than people usually believe. Through small acts of kindness and curiosity, she uncovers hidden connections between thought, nature, and truth. Beneath the fantasy and humour lies a message about awareness, imagination, and inner light.
Interestingly, I had written another book before Leila and the Mirror Tree, which I plan to revisit and release later — perhaps when the time feels right.
AuthorsWiki: Could you tell us about your published works?
Marc Swift: Of course. My books form the Leila’s Light series — a set of eco-conscious, imaginative adventures that follow Leila’s growing understanding of life and nature.
- Leila and the Mirror Tree introduces her world and its reflections.
- Leila and the Time Beneath explores courage and the mystery of time.
- Leila and the Whispering River examines choices and how every decision ripples through life.
- Leila and the Woman from Tomorrow connects emotion and identity across time.
Each title stands alone, but together they form one continuous journey. Though written for children, adults often tell me they find deep meaning in them too. My hope is that every story leaves the reader with reflection, laughter, and a renewed sense of wonder.
AuthorsWiki: What inspired you to publish your stories?
Marc Swift: The desire came from something very personal — sharing meaningful moments with my daughter. Leila’s Light began simply as our bedtime connection, not as a plan for publishing. But over time, I noticed those stories made us see the world differently.
That realisation inspired me to share them with others. I wanted children and parents to experience stories that are both gentle and thought-provoking — tales that make you smile but also make you think.
Publishing became an extension of that wish: to spread awareness, imagination, and kindness. It was never about numbers or fame — only about reaching hearts.
AuthorsWiki: How do you manage your time for writing?
Marc Swift: For me, writing follows a natural rhythm rather than a strict schedule. My daily life — working with bees, walking by the river, building with my hands — often shapes the flow of ideas. Inspiration tends to arrive during these quiet moments, so I jot down notes before they vanish.
I usually write early mornings or late at night when the world is silent. Writing, to me, isn’t separate from life; it’s woven into it. Some days I write pages, other days just a line — but it all adds up. The key is harmony, not pressure.
AuthorsWiki: What’s your preferred writing method?
Marc Swift: I let my characters speak to me. It may sound unusual, but I often hear their voices or feel their emotions as I write. When inspiration strikes, I record notes on my phone or scribble in my notebook — even if I’m outside with the bees.
Later, when I piece those fragments together, that’s when the real story takes form. Sometimes a single line or emotion can open an entire chapter. Writing, for me, is a conversation with imagination itself.
AuthorsWiki: How did your journey as a writer begin?
Marc Swift: It all started when Leila was very young. We would make up stories together before bedtime — just a fun father-daughter ritual. But soon, I realised those stories carried deeper lessons about kindness and awareness.
That’s when I began writing seriously. What started as love for storytelling turned into a lifelong passion. Leila was — and still is — the spark behind everything I write.
AuthorsWiki: Would you like to share a personal achievement with our readers?
Marc Swift: One of my proudest achievements is seeing Leila’s Light grow from simple bedtime stories into a book series read by families worldwide. It’s a reminder that heartfelt beginnings can reach far.
Another personal milestone is building a life rooted in simplicity and meaning. After years in business and construction, I chose to rebuild my world — literally. I constructed my home, started beekeeping, and found peace in honest living.
And yes, The Young Storyteller Quest — a project that helps children write and publish their own stories — holds a special place in my heart. If even one child finds confidence through it, I consider that success.
AuthorsWiki: Are there any new books or projects in progress?
Marc Swift: Yes! I’m currently finishing the fourth book in the Leila’s Light series and quietly developing new titles that will surprise readers. I’m also planning a companion series for slightly older readers — more symbolic and adventurous, but with the same heart and humour.
At the same time, I’m deeply involved in expanding The Young Storyteller Quest, helping young writers bring their imagination to life. Writing has become part of my everyday rhythm, and I can’t imagine life without it.
AuthorsWiki: What message would you like to share with your readers?
Marc Swift: To everyone who has read or supported my work — thank you from my heart. Every kind word, message, or shared moment means more than I can express.
If there’s one message I’d like to leave, it’s this: never lose your imagination. The world can make us forget how to dream, but imagination is what keeps life meaningful.
For children reading Leila’s Light, remember that kindness and curiosity are true strengths. For parents, I hope the stories create moments of connection with your children.
Stay creative, stay honest, and stay close to nature. Life has its own rhythm — follow it with gratitude, and it will always lead you somewhere beautiful.
AuthorsWiki: Who are your literary inspirations, and what books do you cherish?
Marc Swift: I’ve always admired writers who combine heart and purpose. Roald Dahl’s playful wisdom, C.S. Lewis’s ability to explore spirituality through story, and Richard Bach’s poetic simplicity — all have shaped how I write.
Jonathan Livingston Seagull by Richard Bach showed me that a story can be short yet life-changing. The Prophet by Kahlil Gibran keeps me grounded, while Sara: Book 1 by Esther Hicks always brings back the same sense of wonder that inspired Leila’s Light.
I value books that stay with you long after you’ve turned the last page.
AuthorsWiki: What other hobbies bring you joy?
Marc Swift: Most of my free time is spent outdoors — with my family, in nature, or among my bees. Beekeeping isn’t just a hobby; it’s a partnership with nature that keeps me mindful and calm.
I also love building and restoring small spaces, experimenting with natural materials, and creating something useful from simplicity. When I unwind, I sketch, meditate, or just sit listening to the forest at dusk.
All of it connects back to writing — it’s about staying close to creativity in every form.
AuthorsWiki: Do you see yourself continuing in the writing world?
Marc Swift: Absolutely. Writing has become an inseparable part of who I am. What started as stories for my daughter has grown into a lifelong practice of awareness and creativity.
Even if I never published again, I would still write — it’s how I understand life. I plan to keep exploring new projects, nurturing The Young Storyteller Quest, and staying true to the purpose that began this journey.
Writing, for me, is home — and I don’t plan on leaving it.
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It was a pleasure speaking with Marc Swift, whose journey and reflections offer a meaningful glimpse into the creative life of a writer. We sincerely thank them for sharing their time and wisdom with the AuthorsWiki community.
If you enjoyed this conversation, feel free to explore more about the author’s work through the links above, and don’t hesitate to share your thoughts in the comments below.
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