Olympian Writes Salmon On Toast Children’s Book

Two time Olympic rower, Doug Vandor, brings a message of never giving up in His recently published children’s book, Salmon On Toast.

If there is one thing children’s book author and two time Olympian Doug Vandor knows about life, it’s the notion of never giving up. Doug was a spare for the Athens 2004 Olympics and made it to the big show for Beijing 2008 and London 2012 Olympics in the mens lightweight rowing division. The Canadian rower, born in Montreal, Quebec, experienced years of intense training and determination to become an Olympic level athlete and what better way to convey the key message of having grit and determination than through a children’s book.

Salmon On Toast is a book about a slug named Pug trying to figure out a way to get at his favourite snack, Salmon On Toast.

Look no further than Salmon On Toast as the perfect stocking stuffer for your little one(s) this holiday season, particularly considering the kind of year 2020 has been.

We spoke with Doug about his journey from olympian to children’s book author:

How did a retired Olympic rower land up writing a children’s book? What inspired you to publish Salmon on Toast?

I have always written. I wrote my first children's book in high school. As a full time athlete on the Canadian National Rowing Team, writing was an escape from the 6 hours per day of training. It also required no physical exertion which allowed me to do something between workouts while still being able to rest. It was always my intention to get my manuscripts in print. Having young kids now who want to be read to every night undoubtedly helped me complete this project.

Are there any connections between your journey as an olympic athlete and your current pursuit in authoring this book?

Patience and perseverance. I wrote this book 20 years ago and have imagined it as a book on my shelf for many years. Being able to read it to my kids and hear them finish the sentences and laugh at the illustrations is very special.

Without giving too much of the storyline away, what’s going on with Pug the slug?

Pug (the slug) has lost the one tool in the kitchen that he needs to make the dish he loves most – salmon on toast. He comes up with an idea that leads to an incredible adventure.

The holiday season is right around the corner, how can folks find this book and win the stocking stuffer game?

The book is available on Amazon and soon to be available at Indigo.

As with so many children’s books these days, there is often an underlying positive message, is this the case with Salmon on Toast?

First and foremost, Salmon On Toast is a funny story that shows us that a slimy and squishy slug can still be adorable. It's also a reminder of the importance of never giving up and that even if that journey leads you to the same place that you started, do not forget to enjoy it.

Who are your top children’s books authors?

I have too many to list! But a good Dr. Seuss book is always hard to resist.

Can we expect to see more from you in the future? Any hints on what’s next?

Yes! I have a dossier filled with finished and unfinished children's books just waiting to be published. Continuing to develop the character of Pug (the slug) is also high on the priority list. A series is in the works. There are more to come, so stay tuned.

Doug Vandor lives in Vancouver, BC with his wife and children.