Interview with Author + Illustrator Jane Smith Part 2

Happy Thursday Critters! Author and illustrator Jane Smith is back with us today, and I couldn’t be more excited because her new book, NAKED BUTT BUSTS OUT!, is absolutely hilarious, silly, and full of lots of giggles— my favorite kind! (To read our first interview with Jane, click here.) Jane is here to talk to us about her new book, process, and approach to creativity.

So without further ado, please welcome back Jane Smith!

It’s great to have you back!

Thank you so much, Lindsay! I’m thrilled to pieces to be here chatting about my hilarious new children’s book, Naked Butt Busts Out!

 Tell us about your latest book.

Naked Butt Busts Out! is a laugh-out-loud picture book about being true to yourself. The story follows the cheeky little bunny, Naked Butt, who just want to be himself. But for Naked Butt, being yourself, means literally baring it all, and he discovers that everyone wants him to cover up his tail again! Especially his momma. So, he tries this best to keep his true self tucked under shirts and shorts, but when his clothes start feeling itchier and scratchier and tighter and tighter, Naked Butt can’t keep himself under wraps anymore—he BUSTS out! And to everyone’s surprise, Naked Butt’s hilarious city streak shows momma that standing out in the crowd isn’t just a good thing, it’s a lifesaver, and that being yourself can inspire others to uncover a whole new view of the world, too.

Interior art from NAKED BUTT BUSTS OUT! by Jane Smith

Interior art from NAKED BUTT BUSTS OUT! by Jane Smith

 What inspired you to create this book?

Naked Butt Busts Out! was inspired by the universal experience of kiddos just not wanting to get dressed!! This is such a hilariously familiar developmental stage for the age range that hits the picture book sweet spot that it felt like a solid heart for a story. And when I married it to the metaphorical concept of being yourself equaling being naked, the whole book began to come together.

Interior art from NAKED BUTT BUSTS OUT! by Jane Smith

 Can you tell us a bit about your creative process? How do you approach new ideas?

I like to have multiple books projects in-progress at any given time! I generally work on a story as long and as far as I know what to do with it. Then I put it away and pick up another WIP, and then switch back later once I’ve thought thru what comes next. I find that the time away in-between intense bursts of activity on developing a project is actually the secret magic ingredient that brings it altogether and fuels my creative process.

I approach new ideas both playfully and seriously! Seriously in that I always right them down—no matter how ridiculous or off-the-wall. And playfully in that I like to give myself feel reign to explore an idea by doodling—maybe characters or little bits or bobs from the ideas—and by brainstorming word lists—like free word associations, little one liners of text, etc. Usually, it’s thru this exploration that I discover if I have the heart of something true that I can continue to build on.

 How do you shake the rust off when you feel stuck creatively? 

I have lots of little tricks for this—taking a walk, doing a little yoga, mediating, reading, going to the bookstore or library, watching a movie or TV show, baking, cooking a new recipe, visiting a friend who lives close by, calling a friend who lives far away, doodling with no expectations. And if all else fails, take a nap!!

 What do you find inspiring right now?

 Right now, I’m very inspired by the wide world of indie publishing possibilities available to authors and illustrators! I think in an industry where the labors of creative professionals are very undervalued, while also being the bedrock of the whole industry, it is exciting that indie publishing provides affordable, accessible opportunities to take the reins as both creative artists and professional businesspeople.

 Any new books that you are loving right now?

Two books I read recently that I can’t stop thinking about are: Demon Copperhead by Barbara Kingsolver (newly released last fall) and The Haunting of Hill House by Shirley Jackson (classic published in 1959). Both are gorgeously written and stay with you long after you finish the final page.

 What’s up next for you?

 More children’s books!!! I can’t share any details yet, but I’m excited, so stay tuned…

 Anything else you’d like to share with aspiring authors and illustrators?

Your creative work is meaningful! Your creative effort is meaningful! But it will never matter MORE to anyone else than it does to YOU. So do not ever shy away from being your own best advocate, regardless of whether or not you’re agented, regardless of whether or not you’re traditionally published.

And last, but not least, favorite book character?

This is so hard! I have so many favorites! Ha ha! Ok—today I’m going to say Max and Ruby from Rosemary Well’s beloved series. How can you not adore this hilarious pair?!

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Huge thank you to Jane for stopping by Critter Lit today! It was so great to catch up with you and hear about your hilarious new book! Congrats!

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JANE SMITH is the author-illustrator of nine children’s picture books, including the popular Chloe Zoe series, Hello, New House and Miss Meow. Naked Butt Busts Out! is her first self-published title. Jane enjoys knock-knock jokes, cartoons and making kiddos laugh. She lives in sun-kissed Wilmington, North Carolina with her husband and super star daughter.

FOR MORE INFORMATION ABOUT JANE SMITH follow her on social media:

 • Web Site: www.superjane.com

• Instagram & Facebook: @SuperJaneSmith

• Twitter: @SuperJaneArtist

• Goodreads: https://www.goodreads.com/author/show/6302142.Jane_Smith

• Super Readers Club Newsletter: https://superreadersclub.substack.com/

ORDER THIS BOOK To order a copy of NAKED BUTT BUSTS OUT!, click here.

WIN A COPY! Want to win a copy of NAKED BUTT BUSTS OUT?! Leave a COMMENT below or RETWEET this post on Twitter. One lucky winner will be announced on Thursday, April 6th! US addresses only please.

DOUBLE Interview with Best Friends and Author/Illustrators Molly Idle and Juana Martinez-Neal!

Happy Thursday Critters! Today we have a DOUBLE interview with real life besties Molly Idle and Juana Martinez-Neal! I’ve been a long time fan of their individual books— they are STUNNING and you should check them out immediately here and here if you haven’t already. I’m so excited to have them BOTH with us today to talk about their road to publication, creative process, and their newest book, I DON’T CARE, written by Julie Fogliano, published with Neal Porter Books this past November, which Molly and Juana illustrated together.

So without further ado, please welcome Molly Idle and Juana Martinez-Neal!

Where do you live?

As we are two, we’ll answer in a world-class-ping-pong game style!

Juana: I live in small coastal town in Southeastern Connecticut. Before moving here in February of 2021, I always lived in the city. I love small town living!

Molly: I can see why you do! Your small town is completely and utterly charming! It aaaaalmost makes me want to move there too… but right now the weather here in Arizona is perfect. 70 degrees in February. Ask me again in July :)

How many years have you been in publishing?

J: Let me see… I decided to start making children’s books in October of 2005. That does not mean I was published, but that I was determined to be. So, what? Seventeen and a half years here and counting. Moll?

M: Almost the same! I left animation with the idea that I’d like to start writing and illustrating in 2003. So… 20 years now?! Eek! 

How did you first get published?

J: My work was first published by educational and small publishers. It is not until July of 2016 that I was published by one of the “Big-Five” (four now?) here in the United States. It was “La Madre Goose: A Nursery Rhymes for los Niños”, written by Susan Middleton Elya, published by Putnam/Penguin Random House.

M: We’re on the same page again! After years of juggling small illustration jobs, and caring for small people as a new mom, Penguin Random House gave me my first big break too! Viking Children’s Books published Tea Rex, in 2013. 

Do you write/illustrate full-time?

J & M: Yes, we do!

What inspires you to create picture books?

M: I love creating and exploring the relationships between characters. In the process I not only get to know and better understand them, I get to know and better understand myself too. 

J: And I make books about finding our own selves, our identities, our places in the world, the reason why we are in this world. That’s a constant personal search and what drives me to make new work.

What is your favorite thing about being an author/illustrator?

M: Ooooo, there are so many that it’s hard to pick a favorite! One of the things I love most is the feeling when something ineffable falls into place. Like when I’m sketching and sketching, trying to capture the essence of a character and then, suddenly, find them—“There you are! It’s you!”

J: I agree with Molly. That’s an amazing moment! I love being able to create the worlds that we want to see exist.

What do you find difficult working as an author/illustrator?

M: Deadlines. They’re my Achilles heel!

J: We are best friends for a reason! My biggest challenge is that we create our own schedules. It can be a trap when you are so easily distracted.

What do you do to shake the rust off or get new ideas?

M: For rust, I recommend WD40 — it really helps get things moving. For ideas, I recommend work. I used to worry all the time that I’d run out of new ideas. But then I noticed that as soon as I wrapped up one story another idea would present itself! Finishing one seems to get things moving for another. Work is the WD40 of my mind!

J: As I was saying, I can get distracted and bored easily which is the reason why I’m a mixed media artist. If I use different ways of making the art, I have to be present while I’m solving this new puzzle. A new puzzle I just made for myself.

Anything you are habitual about when it comes to creativity?

J: Same answer as above but with a contradictory twist, I need routine. Having my quiet walks outside, listening to my favorite music, making art in a room where natural light floods the space are all a-must. 

M: Same. I love new puzzles, but I love to them with a fresh cuppa coffee in my favorite mug, next to my pencils organized by color, with my work mix playing, next to the sunny window… no wonder we’re besties!

Can you share a positive experience you’ve had in the Kid Lit community?

J: I have to say meeting Molly Idle. Have you met her? She’s pretty amazing!

M: Jinx! I was going to say meeting YOU!!!

Recommended reading?

Lightning-Ping-pong-round!

M: A Polar Bear In the Snow, by Mac Barnett and Shawn Harris

J: What is Love?, by Mac Barnett and Carson Ellis

M: Kafka and the Doll, by Larissa Theule and Rebecca Green (I’m so glad you introduced me to this one, Juana!)

J: I love that book! Give it a second read and then read I Talk Like A River, by Jordan Scott and Sydney Smith. 

What has been the highlight of your career thus far?

M:  I mean, we could say winning Caldecotts…that feels like bragging. But it was incredible to have our books honored! 

J:  They were a huge recognition for our work. Hooray for awards!

M: And Hooray for teachers, and librarians, and Readers!

J: Yes!!!

Can you tell us about your newest book?

J & M: Our newest book is “I Don’t Care”, written by Julie Fogliano and published by Neal Porter Books. We co-illustratred the book, a process that was both scary and fantastic at the same time. We have been critique partners for years but not until this story that we had worked on a book together! 

Juana’s Favorite Interior Illustration from I DON’T CARE, written by Julie Fogliano, illustrated by Molly Idle and Juana Martinez-Neal, published by Neal Porter Books

Molly’s Favorite Interior Illustration from I DON’T CARE, written by Julie Fogliano, illustrated by Molly Idle and Juana Martinez-Neal, published by Neal Porter Books

What’s up next for you?

J & M: We’re making more books together, and we’re each making board books too!

J: Alma’s Words, two new bilingual board books, are releasing September 5, 2023: Alma and Her Family and Alma, Head to Toe, with two more books coming in 2024.

M: And I have Flora and Friends ABCs, publishing October 10, 2023, with an entire flock of new bird buddies, and Flora and Friends Colors flying off shelves in 2024!

Anything else you’d like to share with aspiring authors and illustrators?

J: Making children’s books requires drive, determination, and a thick skin. It is a matter of when, not if , it will happen. Your time will come!

M: Agreed! That’s one of the nicest things about the publishing industry. There’s no limit on how many stories can be told. If you make good work- there’s a place for it. There’s always room for one more!

And last, but not least, who is your favorite children’s book character?

J: If I have to pick just one, it is The Little Prince from El Principito (The Little Prince). 

M: One?! I’ll pick two: Toot and Puddle. Two best friends who are very different and very similar at the same time. Remind you of anybody?

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HUGE THANK YOU to Molly and Juana for stopping by CritterLit today! It was truly an honor!

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MOLLY IDLE is the author and illustrator of the Caldecott Honor–winning book Flora and the Flamingo. She is also the creator of Tea Rex, the mermaid tales Pearl and Coral, and Witch Hazel. Molly lives with her fabulous family in Tempe, Arizona—where she can most often be found with a cup of espresso in one hand and a pencil in the other, scribbling away on her next book. 

FOR MORE INFORMATION about Molly or her work visit IdleIllustration.com or follow her on social media:

@mollyidle on Instagram

@mollyidle on Twitter

JUANA MARTINEZ-NEAL is the author and illustrator of the Caldecott Honor–winning book Alma and How She Got Her Name. She also illustrated New York Times bestselling picture book Tomatoes for Neela by Padma Lakshmi; Fry Bread: A Native American Family Story by Kevin Noble Maillard, which won a Robert F. Sibert Medal; and La Princesa and the Pea by Susan Middleton Elya, for which she won a Pura Belpré Illustrator Award. Juana Martinez-Neal lives in Connecticut with her family. 

FOR MORE INFORMATION about Juana or her work, visit juanamartinezneal.com or follow her on social media:

@juanamartinezn on Instagram

@juanamartinez on Twitter

Check out I DON’T CARE on the Holiday House website here or follow on social media: @holidayhousebks on all platforms.

BUY THIS BOOK To purchase a copy of I DON’T CARE click here.

WIN A COPY! Want to win a giveaway copy of I DON’T CARE?! Leave a COMMENT below or RETWEET this post on Twitter. One lucky winner will be announced on Thursday, February 23rd! US addresses only please.

Interview with Author and Illustrator Rachel Isadora

Happy Thursday Critters! I’m honored to be posting an interview with the incredibly talented Rachel Isadora today! She has had an amazing career in publishing, including a Caldecott honor for BEN’S TRUMPET. I’m thrilled she is with us today to share her experiences and TWO new books written with Robie Rogge, published by Holiday House, releasing this month.

So without further ado, please welcome Rachel Isadora!

Where do you live?

New York and France.

How many years have you been in publishing?

Approximately 40 years.

How did you first get published?

I was a ballet dancer and after an injury prevented me from dancing for a few months, I brought some drawings I had done to McMillan Publishers. I met Elizabeth Shub, an editor, and she asked me if I would like to do a book with her. Having had no formal art or writing training, she patiently worked with me and the result was my first book, Max. I returned to dance and continued to illustrate and write books at the same time.

Do you write/illustrate full-time?

Yes, I have all these years and continue to do so.

What inspires you to create picture books?

I enjoy thinking of new ideas and how to illustrate them. Many times, my visual ideas come first, things I want to draw, and the story follows. I enjoy creating new ways to express the illustrations. I use various mediums; watercolor, pastels, oil paint, collage and have done a few books on the computer.

What surprised you the most working as an author/illustrator?

I was very surprised that I could actually write and illustrate a book. As I said, I had no training in neither art nor writing and, from the beginning, learned to do so on the job. I was very proud  when I got my first contract and then was presented with my first book. I remember getting on the bus, in New York, and showing all the riders around me my book, Max.

What is your favorite thing about being an author/illustrator?

I love working alone. When I was a ballerina, I was always in the presence of others. Being in my studio working by myself, listening to music, is total joy.

What do you do to shake the rust off or get new ideas?

I am thinking all the time about ideas I’d like to express whether visually or through writing. I read a great deal, observe people around me, visit many museums and go to the theater, etc. All of these stimulate new ideas. I think of ways in which I can interpret them and then express them in a children’s book. 

Anything you are habitual about when it comes to creativity?

Whether illustrating or writing or painting, I do it everyday. 

What has been the highlight of your career thus far?

It’s all been a high.

Can you tell us about your newest book?

I’m doing two books for Holiday House both of which enter a new realm for me, they are “lift-the-flap” books. They involve more than turning the page and require a child’s physical participation. This meant I had to do more complicated layouts and planning. I think both books lend themselves to their themes, one is manners (I Say Please and Thank You: Lift-the-Flap Manners) and the other animal sounds (After the Buzz Comes the Bee: Lift-the-Flap Animal Sounds). When the child opens the flap, there is a surprise finale.

(Flap closed) Interior art from I SAY PLEASE AND THANK YOU written by Robie Rogge and Rachel Isadora, Illustrated by Rachel Isadora published by Holiday House, October 2021

(Flap open) Interior art from I SAY PLEASE AND THANK YOU written by Robie Rogge and Rachel Isadora, Illustrated by Rachel Isadora published by Holiday House, October 2021

(Flap closed) Interior art from I SAY PLEASE AND THANK YOU written by Robie Rogge and Rachel Isadora, Illustrated by Rachel Isadora published by Holiday House, October 2021

(Flap open) Interior art from I SAY PLEASE AND THANK YOU written by Robie Rogge and Rachel Isadora, Illustrated by Rachel Isadora published by Holiday House, October 2021

(Flap closed) Interior art from I SAY PLEASE AND THANK YOU written by Robie Rogge and Rachel Isadora, Illustrated by Rachel Isadora published by Holiday House, October 2021

(Flap Open) Interior art from I SAY PLEASE AND THANK YOU written by Robie Rogge and Rachel Isadora, Illustrated by Rachel Isadora published by Holiday House, October 2021

What’s up next for you?

I will soon be working on another flip the flap book for Holiday House, The Nutcracker. I look forward to this book as dance is always my favorite subject to paint.

Anything else you’d like to share with aspiring authors and illustrators?

In order for this, or any other career to work, you must go at it continually, all the time. That’s the kind of devotion it takes to succeed….and, of course, only you and you alone can determine what success means to you.

And last, but not least, favorite 80s movie?

Dirty Dancing, boiled down to one. I knew many people involved in this movie…..

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Huge thank you to Rachel for stopping by Critter Lit today! You’ve had such an incredible career and we are big fans!

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Rachel Isadora has written and illustrated more than two hundred children’s books, including Ben’s Trumpet, a Caldecott Honor book. A former ballet dancer, she is also a fine artist with a special interest in dance. Rachel lives in France and New York City.

FOR MORE INFO about Rachel, visit her online:  http://www.rachelisadora.com/ or follow her on social media:

Twitter - @chomsk7

Instagram - @rachelisadoraart

BUY THIS BOOK To order Rachel’s books, click here.

WIN A COPY! Want to win a copy of I SAY PLEASE AND THANK YOU! Leave a COMMENT below or RETWEET this post on Twitter. One lucky winner will be announced on Thursday, October 21st! US addresses only please.