Interview with Author + Illustrator Amalia Hoffman

Happy Thursday Critters! Today we have a wonderful interview with an author and illustrator with fifteen years of experience in kidlit! I’m thrilled to have her with us today to talk about her newest book, MASHA MUNCHING (Yeehoo Press), her road to publication, and experiences in kidlit.

So without further ado, please welcome Amalia Hoffman!

Where do you live?

Larchmont, NY.

How many years have you been in publishing?

15 years.

How did you first get published?

I wrote a story and created a book dummy with a color cover and three finished interior pages. I really didn’t know what to do with it and how or where to send it. Then I met someone who told me about the Society of Children’s Books Writers & Illustrators (SCBWI). I joined the society and went to a mini local conference. There I met people who told me about the SCBWI conference in LA. I flew there and took a couple of classes.

I started sending my dummy to agents. I didn’t get an agent but I sent it to those publishers who accepted non-solicited submissions.

It was a lot of work, but I learned how to write a query letter and eventually I got a “Yes!” from a publisher, located in Israel that published children’s books in English. I have a lot of family in Israel so while I was there; I visited the publisher (Gefen Publishing) and signed my first contact.

Do you write/illustrate full-time?

At this point, it’s almost full time. I do other things related to publishing, such as promotions, presentations etc. so that takes some time of my day as well.

What inspires you to create picture books?

For me, creating children’s books is almost like going back to my own childhood, remembering what I did and thinking about when I was a child.

Also, for many years I worked as a visual merchandiser. I created fantasy store windows for big stores in NYC. Kids used to stare at the window and I felt like, in a way, I was creating stories for them so I was inspired to write books.

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

I was most surprised when I started presenting my books to kids. I realized how perceptive they are. Kids notice the tiniest details in a book  illustration.  

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

Spending time with kids and feeling like I’m enriching their lives.

I also love sitting on a rock by the sound in my neighborhood and letting my imagination loose. I feel like a kid and that’s a most wonderful feeling.

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

Like most authors and illustrators, I often have to wait months before hearing back from a publisher.

Editors are very busy and they can’t look at every submission right away. But I’m aware of the fact that this is part of the business.

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

I walk a lot and always end up in that wonderful park by the water. Sometimes I actually fall asleep. The Wi-Fi doesn’t work well in that area and that’s a blessing because I am completely detached and my mind opens up to new ideas. 

Anything you are habitual about when it comes to creativity?

Every time I start a new project I clean up my studio and wipe up my work surface. This habit helps me to charge my creative battery and move on to something new and, hopefully, exciting! 

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

I have had many wonderful experiences in the Kid Lit community. I met incredible talented, amazing and caring folks. I had a great time at the SCBWI conferences where, before the pandemic, everyone showed up one night, dressed up in costumes. Some costumes were so creative and memorable. Everyone at the hotel was dressed in business attire and the SCBWI members showed up in feathers, sequins, beads, you name it. 

Recommended reading?

Stories by Sholem Aliechem.

What has been the highlight of your career thus far?

I can’t think of one highlight. When I receive a box of any of my new books and smell the fresh ink and see my illustrations in a new book, I feel elevated. After working on a book or so long, it’s always a highlight when I see them for the first time.

What is something you wish someone had told you when you first started writing/illustrating?

I wish someone had told me to be tough and not to fall apart at every rejection.

Can you tell us about your newest book?

Masha the goat is tired of eating the same boring farm food every day. She says goodby to her beloved friends and sets off on her search to find something else to eat.

Along the way, Masha discovers a wonderful restaurant where the waiter welcomes her in.

But Masha’s choices of “delicious foods” and her  behavior doesn’t seem to be appropriate for restaurant dining. Masha realizes that everything is tastier when shared with good friends and the freedom to behave like a goat. She returns to the farm and delights her friends by using her experience at the restaurant to make new dishes for them.

The theme of the book is that sometimes, we need to explore outside of our own limited horizon, only to discover that home is where we feel the most comfortable and safe.

Masha is curious. She needs to leave her beloved friends in order to find out what’s out there. Her journey is one of discoveries and struggles along the way.

At the end, she chooses to go back home but the story makes it clear that the journey was well worth it.

Masha has gained knowledge that she can put to good use. Now, she can enrich her friends’ life by using her experiences at the restaurant and making new dishes from that wonderful basic ingredient—hay!

MASHA MUNCHING, by Amalia Hoffman, Chinese Edition, Yeehoo Press

What’s up next for you?

Besides Masha Munching, I have two other books launching in 2022 and I’m working on another story that was just acquired.

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

Stay true to yourself! Don’t write what you think will sell, because truth is, no one really knows what will sell. If you’re an illustrator, don’t try to mimic someone else’s style. 

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

9-5.

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Thank you to Amalia for stopping by Critter Lit! Congrats on Masha!

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AMALIA HOFFMAN is an author, illustrator and storyteller. She grew up in Jerusalem, Israel. She now resides in Larchmont, NY.

FOR MORE INFORMATION, visit Amalia’s website or follow her on social media:

Facebook: @Amalia.Hoffman.5

Twitter: @AmaliaHoffman

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/hoffman.amalia/?hl=en

BUY THIS BOOK To order MASHA MUNCHING, click here.

WIN A COPY! Want to win a copy of MASHA MUNCHING and MY MONSTERPIECE?! Leave a COMMENT below or RETWEET this post on Twitter. One lucky winner will be announced on Thursday, March 10th! US addresses only please.

Interview with Author and Illustrator Carolina Farías

Happy Thursday Critters! Today we have an interview with an author and illustrator, whose newest book, CHAMELEON CAN BE, came out this past fall with Yeehoo Press. I love Chameleon and all his friends and the message of the book is wonderful! The art is brilliant, bright, and charming and I can’t wait to share this fantastic book with you all!

So without further ado, please welcome Carolina Farías!

Where do you live?

I live in La Plata, Argentina, home of the beautiful National University of La Plata, 40 minutes away from Buenos Aires. 

How many years have you been in publishing?
I have been working in children's illustration and editing books for nearly twenty years. 

How did you first get published?

My First book was “En el Principio”, an adaptation of the Bible for kids. The main difference is that the story takes place in the room of Paco, a little kid whose mother is in charge of the Creation of the world that surrounds him. The book took two years of hard work and I had the privilege to work with the amazing art editor Daniel Goldín and be published by the “Fondo de Cultura económica”. 

Do you write and illustrate full-time?

Yes, I do! And I also find the time to give classes both at the faculty and the high school of art in La Plata. I find teaching very inspiring and motivating for my daily illustration work.

What inspires you to create picture books?

Inspiration can strike at any time and anywhere, any moment in everyday life. Perhaps something that is visually interesting lights a spark, so I take a photo to reference later. My love and constant research on illustrated books also drives my work. There is a part of me that still enjoys going into those worlds contained within the pages of those beautiful books I used to read when I was a little girl.

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

The mere notion of working as an illustrator was a novelty to me!

I was fortunate enough to attend one of the best universities in the country and get a degree in fine arts, but I never thought as time went by that children's illustration was going to be the perfect place for me.

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

I love telling good stories, and one way of achieving that is finding interesting characters. I take my time to give my characters some distinctive personality. It is funny because I try to get in their shoes and imagine what they are thinking or feeling, even if they turn out to be a dog or a lion!

As a teacher in illustration it’s great to interact with the kids and explore their imaginations. It’s amazing how unusual and interesting some of their ideas can be. I try to encourage them, especially the ones who think that they can’t draw. They are usually the ones who don’t come up with the obvious stuff.

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

Finding focus! There are so many options and so much work to do that sometimes you just have to force yourself to stop and take things slowly.

I’m very passionate about my work. Sometimes I get so many ideas floating around that I have to take a thousand notes, and filtering them to get the best ones is sometimes a really tedious task.

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

Most ideas start small so the most important thing is to know that we shouldn't rely on an ideal ´eureka´ moment or a rush of sudden inspiration. Instead,  ideas are to be found in our everyday activities and in the most random things we stumble upon in life.

When working on a book I always reflect on my own childhood memories, how I was feeling and reacting to the world around me. As a child, the only place where I felt safe and useful was in front of a blank sheet of paper. 

Anything you are habitual about when it comes to creativity?

Although inspiration can strike anytime and anywhere, I play my part to create my ideal setting: random local coffee shops where to sip some cappuccino and enjoy chocolate cake. I usually make some notes and tuck them away. Then one day in the future a new story may begin to emerge. All the best ideas need time to brew by themselves.

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

I love being able to share different experiences with colleagues. It’s always great to have another perspective and a different look regarding the same issues we encounter in our everyday work on an illustration. It’s wonderful to get so much help and support! 

Recommended reading?

I have all of my favourite books here on the shelf of my studio. I love Argentinian Cartoonist and Illustrator Carlos Nine and I collect everything published by Quino. His humor and illustrations are amazing. I’m completely obsessed by his work!

What has been the highlight of your career thus far?

I think interacting with young students is always a joy. Apart from that, I would say that I loved working for the movie Where the Wild Things Are based on the books by Maurice Sendak and collaborating with Grandmothers of the Plaza de Mayo (Abuelas de Plaza de Mayo), an Argentine human rights organization with the goal of finding the children stolen and illegally adopted during the military dictatorship of the late seventies.

And of course my last book Chameleon can be has also been one of the most fulfilling experiences I’ve had. 

What is something you wish someone had told you when you first started writing/illustrating?

Such a big question. I think it’s important sometimes to broaden your influences. It is fine sometimes to put aside picture books and start looking for inspiration in the work of writers, artists and directors who may not have much to do with illustration! 

Can you tell us about your newest book?

Chameleon Can Be came to life in a very small room while having a session with my therapist. I was opening up to her and expressing some concerns I had about one of my kids, when she suddenly said something that has stuck in my head ever since: "Well, she will have to find out who she wants to be"

Interior art from CHAMELEON CAN BE by Carolina Farías, published by Yeehoo Press

Interior art from CHAMELEON CAN BE by Carolina Farías, published by Yeehoo Press

I carried that phrase with me for the next few days. I started working on a short word list. English is not my native language, but some words sounded perfect for what I had in mind: CAN BE… CHAMELEON…BEAUTIFUL …FLOWER… FRIENDS… and with those concepts in mind I started doodling on my iPad. 

Interior art from CHAMELEON CAN BE by Carolina Farías, published by Yeehoo Press

Interior art from CHAMELEON CAN BE by Carolina Farías, published by Yeehoo Press

At some point I sketched this very messy drawing of a Chameleon as a beautiful flower. I really liked it, so I drew it over and over. Then some other characters came up: a ladybug, a bee and a frog. Chameleon and his friends were born!

Interior art from CHAMELEON CAN BE by Carolina Farías, published by Yeehoo Press

Interior art from CHAMELEON CAN BE by Carolina Farías, published by Yeehoo Press

I hope that kids and adults reading this book will fully enjoy the journey and take the trip to find out who they want to become.

What’s up next for you?

I have always been intrigued by writing about those romantic concepts that bring us together, such as love, kindness and connection. Currently I’m working on a book about the things that make us different, unique and special.

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

I think the best piece of advice I can give to someone starting out is to work really hard and follow your heart.  And always trust your gut!

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

I can’t pick just one. I love Forrest Gump, E.T. and Back to the future!

If I stumble upon them on TV I can’t resist watching them until the very end.

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Huge thank you to Carolina for stopping by Critter Lit today! Congrats on your beautiful book!

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Carolina Farías is an award-winning author and illustrator of over 40 books. After receiving her bachelor’s degree in art, she began teaching at the University of Graphic Design and Visual Communication in La Plata. Her artwork is created using a variety of mediums with traditional and digital techniques. Carolina is part of the White Ravens 2008 list for the Bologna Book Fair, where she has also been selected to represent Argentina. She currently lives in La Plata, Argentina.

FOR MORE INFORMATION visit Carolina online: www.carolinafarias.com/ar

Instagram: instagram.com/fariasillos

BUY THIS BOOK To order CHAMELEON CAN BE, click here.

WIN A COPY! Want to win a copy of CHAMELEON CAN BE?! Leave a COMMENT below or RETWEET this post on Twitter. One lucky winner will be announced on Thursday, February 24th! US addresses only please.

Interview with Author + Illustrator David Catrow

Happy Thursday Critters! Today we have an interview with the incredible author and illustrator, David Catrow, whose books I’ve adored since wanting to become an author/illustrator myself. I remember the first time I discovered STAND TALL MOLLY LOU MELON and poured over the illustrations— so much to look at! One of my favorite details in his books are the dogs— they are fantastic and such accurately, hilarious portraits of canine behavior. I’ve always loved David’s books and I’m thrilled to have him with us today to talk about his experience in the industry and his new book, I WANT AN APPLE: HOW MY BODY WORKS, by David L. Harrison with Holiday House.

So without further ado, please welcome David Catrow!

Where do you live?

I live in Ohio but mostly I live inside my head. Being an artist is a 24/7 existence and there are times when it’s hard to separate what is actually happening around me and what I am imagining or wish was happening around me. Which is probably why I’m not in an occupation like brain surgery or being an airline pilot. 

How many years have you been in publishing?

My First Book was published in 1990 which is well... a long time ago (you probably should do the math, I am a picture person) 

How did you first get published?

It was completely unexpected actually, I was studying to be a doctor at the time and someone asked me if I could illustrate the procedure for doing an emergency cricothyrotomy on an un-anaesthetized patient in the middle of nowhere. My drawing was published in the Journal of Emergency Medicine and here I am. 

Do you write/illustrate full-time?

Yes, I write and illustrate full-time, but I would happily do it more if I could figure out how to get the earth to rotate a little bit slower thus gaining me a few more hours of daylight. 

What inspires you to create picture books?

Oh, anything and everything—you name it, I’ve been inspired by it... (Go ahead, name something, the first thing that comes into your mind and just shout it out!)  I heard you! YUP, I’ve been inspired by that too.

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

What surprises me the most is that I’m never done. The minute I’ve finished a book that I think pretty much says it all, I’ll suddenly think of something else to say- (which is surprising because most people who talk to me think I’m a person of few words.) 

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

My Favorite thing about being an Illustrator is, that not only do I have something that I love to do, but I am able to keep doing it for as long as I wish. After I’m done being an artist I plan on devoting all of my time to learning how to catch a frisbee in my mouth. 

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

For me the most difficult thing is trying to swat away all the pesky other ideas that buzz around my head and interfere with me doing my work that is front of me.

For me the most difficult thing is learning that I can get carried away sometimes and forget what it is that am supposed to be doing. 

-which reminds me of a funny story about an elephant, a turnip, and a guy named Ned who all decide to go on a road trip together- Ned didn’t have a driver’s license so the turnip has to drive, because, honestly, whoever heard of an elephant driving a car.

(sorry, what the question again?)

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

I get lots of sleep, I eat right and I take a multi-vitamin.  

Anything you are habitual about when it comes to creativity?

I eat right, I get lots of sleep, and I take a multi-vitamin.

Recommended reading?

Everything and anything.

What has been the highlight of your career thus far?

Waking up and doing what I love to do—Oh and playing with my dog.

What is something you wish someone had told you when you first started writing/illustrating?

I wish someone had told me that you can’t do it all.

Can you tell us about your newest book?

Your body is busy, busy, busy! Learn how it works in this funny-but-informative book.

I want an apple. Smart brain, help me find one. Sniffy nose, smell the apple. Bright eyes, help me see it.
Legs, feet, arms, teeth, tongue, tummy . . . and long intestine too . . . all snap into action when a child decides she wants an apple. A clever and humorous introduction to body parts and their function.

Interior art from I WANT AN APPLE: HOW MY BODY WORKS by David L. Harrison, illustrated by David Catrow with Holiday House

Interior art from I WANT AN APPLE: HOW MY BODY WORKS by David L. Harrison, illustrated by David Catrow with Holiday House

Interior art from I WANT AN APPLE: HOW MY BODY WORKS by David L. Harrison, illustrated by David Catrow with Holiday House

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

Keep working hard at what you love to do and eventually you will make it- no matter what it is that you want to do- whether it’s juggling on a tightrope, walking in space, writing poetry, or singing an aria, or anything in between- all the people that are doing those things now, were once like you.  

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

Turner and Hooch.

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DAVID CATROW is a political cartoonist, artist for animated films, and illustrator of best-selling books for children, including two New York Times Best Illustrated books. His books for Holiday House, which he also wrote, are The Fly Flew In and Fun in the Sun. He lives in Ohio. Learn more about him at Catrow.com.

FOR MORE INFORMATION about David, visit him online: www.catrow.com

Or follow him on social media:

@DavidCatrow (Facebook, Twitter, Instagram)

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

WIN A COPY! Want to win a copy of I WANT AN APPLE: HOW MY BODY WORKS?! Leave a COMMENT below or RETWEET this post on Twitter. One lucky winner will be announced on Thursday, November 18th! US addresses only please.

Interview with Debut Illustrator Erica De Chavez

Happy Thursday Critters! I’m so thrilled to be sharing today’s interview, because TODAY we have Erica De Chavez stopping by Critter Lit! She is super talented and one of the best book designers EVER— now I may be a little biased because she also happens to be my book designer. BUT she really is. I’m so grateful I’ve had the opportunity to work with someone as talented as Erica, and there is nothing better than completing a picture or board book and handing it off to a designer who you completely trust to make your work marry seamlessly with the text. I have also probably put her through the ringer lately with the type of books (hello nonfiction!) we’ve been working on together at HarperCollins so I’m so very grateful she had time to be with us today to talk about her debut illustrated book, her experience in the industry, and upcoming projects.

So without further ado, please welcome Erica De Chavez!

Where do you live?

I am a former Brooklyn, NY transplant that now resides in sunny Clermont, FL.

When did you know you wanted to write/illustrate picture books?

It was at the end of my junior year in art college. I was already planning for my illustration senior thesis project which was completely un-related to children's books. Fortunately, I took an elective class in my spring semester, Illustrating Children's Books. That class and my professor, Tom Casmer, literally changed my art journey trajectory. I went from not knowing what I was going to do with my passion for art and how I was going to make money or find a job doing art to becoming hyper-focused on the children's publishing industry, the picture book writing and creation process and all things picture books from then on. Though I always had a healthy interest in children's art and media which I voraciously consumed through my love for all animated shows, films, anime, comics, and manga very early in my life. I'm also blessed to have parents and grandparents who read to me often when I was a child and encouraged my appetite for reading and libraries.

Tell us about your road to publication, what did that involve for you?

I left FL after graduating with my BFA in Illustration and went to live with my brother in Queens, NY who is a graphic designer for men's fashion. I spent much of my early career doing freelance projects for small educational toy companies and picking up illustration commissions here and there. It was after my second attempt applying to HarperCollins Publishers for a design assistant position that I broke into the industry working under Martha Rago, who was already a well-known art director at the time. She taught me everything I needed to learn about children's book design and sharpened my design eye for meshing typography and children's book art. I met many children's book authors and illustrators as her assistant, many of them award-winning and others fledgling creators starting out their publication careers. I became a member of SCBWI, CBIG, and attempted to create many art critique groups until I finally met kindred spirits and formed The YEA Girls artist collective. My small, tight-knit artist community grew to include professors at NYC art colleges, other designers who also wanted to pursue illustration careers on the side and more prolific mentors and teachers who are active authors, illustrators, and editors themselves. It was through an SCBWI conference twitter thread that I met Annie Fox, the author of The Girls' Q&A Book on Friendship and co-founder of Electric Eggplant. A former artist I hired to illustrate a picture book returned the favor and hired me to illustrate for The Future Is Ours sticker book. And it was through my SCBWI.org portfolio page that Kendra and Claire-Voe OCampo found my art and decided to reach out to me to illustrate Mighty May Won't Cry Today. 

You are now a Senior Designer for HarperCollins. Can you tell us about your experience working on both sides of the table in publishing?

It's been an education into the industry, the decision making process, the team collaborations, seeing and working daily with the tons of un-named people who read, edit, market, finance, manage, proof, and sell the books and countless more. It's literally like a curtain being pulled back. I realize how little most book creators know about how the decisions for some of the direction for their books come from. And that's honestly for the better, in my opinion. It helps save the creators' mental fatigue and emotional distress and allowing them to focus on what they do best, writing and illustrating. I find as a book designer, you're the glue to all the bookmaking departments, so that comes with a lot of personality managing, too. You work with and for a WIDE range of personalities inside a publishing house. It's also a day job that I depend on for my daily expenses; it's my livelihood. But it sometimes can feel like a drag, energy-wise. Many may not realize it, but designers are working on anywhere between 30-60 book titles all at the same time, managing books that are publishing on seasons sometimes three years out. It's a bit bonkers. No one told me the job required such heavy multitasking capabilities. Compartmentalizing can help, but it's hard to "turn off" at the end of a work day. I live and breath children's books now. It's literally my life. It can feel overwhelming and burn out is frequent. But it's fulfilling and satisfying work, especially when I flip through and read the books I helped create and guide. My knowledge and experience as a book designer better informs my own personal artwork and stories.

Can you share a bit about your process?

My artwork always starts with a sketch in a tiny sketch book. I love tiny sketchbooks that don't feel too precious or overly expensive. I draw from life and drot down bits of story ideas that come fast and fleeting. I often bounce ideas with my partner for characters and story beats that are half finished and are bookmarked for later days. When I focus in on an idea for a project I look up inspiration and reference photos and experiment with art materials. I try to create a series of images based on a theme or a piece of story I'm inspired by. Nothing is ever fully formed, it's more experimental. Then I sit down to write, which also starts very loose with a plot timeline and character biographies. The story and storyboarding thumbnails happen at the same time with pencil and paper, which is much faster for me than drawing on a tablet. I scan my drawings in along with some paint textures and redraw/edit final illustrations. Sometimes I transfer final drawings with a light pad to heavy watercolor paper and use a mix of watercolor, gouache, colored pencils, crayons, and graphite that I scan in to further edit digitally in Photoshop. I sometimes scan pen and ink hand lettering or line work from my sketchbook or loose drawing paper and incorporate those into my illustrations digitally as well. But my process always begin with pencil to paper. 

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

I consume a lot of media and art in all forms. I read books, comics, manga, graphic novels, biographies, and motivational texts. I watch movies, mostly animated films and tv shows. I listen to podcasts occasionally until I get tired of it and sometime I enjoy the hum of silence. I go out and enjoy nature. I like to run long distance, hike, throw a frisbee around, and kayak. I also garden and observe nature. I listen to live music and I love traveling to different countries. All of the things I enjoy in life outside of art and design inadvertently inspire my art and design work! Life is very cyclical. So as long as I live fully, I'm never without a good idea.

Anything you can’t live without while you write/draw?

A cup of good milk tea, black or green. A good music playlist that lists my mood and makes me smile. And a good snack! I'm a creative muncher.

Any authors and/or illustrators who inspire you?

Oliver Jeffers inspired my art and career as soon as I dove back into picture books in college. Erin Entrada Kelly inspires me to write stories about kids that are like me, colored and Filipino-American and just like every other kid with a dream. Simona Ciraolo and Lorena Alvarez Gomez continue to inspire me to make beautiful children's books because their books so gorgeous and the stories all feel like emotional little jewels. Their books feel like precious objects sitting on my book shelves.

Dream project to work on?

I dream of working on my first author-illustrated children's book debut, be it picture book or graphic novel or maybe even an illustrated chapter book. I dream of working on many projects in a long and fruitful children's artist career. I'd love to work with publishers big or small on stories that move readers emotionally and positively. 

Tell us about your debut book.

Mighty May Won't Cry Today, is about an imaginative little girl named May who tries not to shed a tear on her first day of school. She navigates through unexpected challenges with clever positivity and mindful breathing techniques. With the help of her two moms May learns why it's OK to cry and that we all do sometimes. The story really hits home for me because I am a pretty emotional person (aren't all creatives?) and I was an emotionally sensitive kid. I cried through my short stint in daycare and cried through the first week of kindergarten during which my mother had to leave work daily and come eat lunch with me at the school cafeteria. I love that this story tells kids it is totally OK to cry. I wish I had been told that more often when I was young. 

Interior Art from Might May Won’t Cry Today by Kendra & Claire-Voe Ocampo, illustrated by Erica De Chavez

Interior Art from Might May Won’t Cry Today by Kendra & Claire-Voe Ocampo, illustrated by Erica De Chavez

Interior Art from Might May Won’t Cry Today by Kendra & Claire-Voe Ocampo, illustrated by Erica De Chavez

What’s up next for you?

I'm finishing up an illustration series I started last year in the middle of the pandemic creating portraits of some of my friends and family members who are health care workers and Asian-American. I'm also focusing on a series of mini illustrations from a set of rejected sketches that didn't make it into the final The Future Is Ours sticker book, taking the opportunity to experiment with new color palettes and try to evolve my digital illustration style. And I'm also reworking a picture book dummy into a sequential paneled book format—very much a work in progress. 

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

My Neighbor Totoro. It epitomizes everything I love about children's stories and art made for children.

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Huge thank you to Erica for stopping by Critter Lit today! We are so excited for your debut and can’t wait to see what you do next!

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ERICA DE CHAVEZ is a Filipino-American children's book designer by day for HarperCollins Publishers and by night transforms into a freelance author-illustrator. She is the illustrator for the indie published middle grade advice book, The Girls' Q&A Book on Friendship by Annie Fox and contributed over 40 fun stickers to The Future Is Ours: Feminist Stickers to Express Yourself by Duopress Labs. Her latest publication is a picture book, Mighty May Won't Cry Today, by Kendra and Claire-Voe Ocampo, is a National Indie Excellence Award finalist.

FOR MORE INFORMATION about Erica or her books, visit her online at www.PandaErica.com or follow her on social media:

Instagram: @PandaErica

Twitter: @PandaErica

Facebook: www.facebook.com/PandaErica

ORDER THIS BOOK To order a copy of MIGHTY MAY WON’T CRY click here.

WIN A COPY! Want to win a signed copy of MIGHTY MAY WON’T CRY?! Leave a COMMENT below or RETWEET this post on Twitter. One lucky winner will be announced on Thursday, June 10th! US addresses only please.

Interview with Author and Illustrator Ginnie Hsu

Happy Thursday Critters! Today we are joined by an incredibly talented author and illustrator. I’m a huge fan of her work— I love her compositions, details, and color palettes! And she also happens to be professor of illustration at my alma matter, Syracuse University. I can’t wait for all of you to check out all her books.

So without further ado, please welcome Ginnie Hsu!

Where do you live?

Upstate NY.

How many years have you been in publishing?

So far, two happy years. I am learning so much, and I am so grateful for the experiences.

How did you first get published?

My agent, Anne, told me someone was interested in having me illustrate a farm book! I love farms, and it was perfect. The Farm that feeds us was out last July, and it was one of the happiest days last year. 

Do you write and illustrate full-time?

Now I am! I am also teaching Illustration at Syracuse University.

What inspires you to create picture books?

Telling stories in a lovely way, and I love to draw. 

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

The amount of time you have to put in to create, think and experiment. It’s fun and time-consuming at the same time. 

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

I get to tell the story and illustrate the way I want it to be. 

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

Oh, there is never enough time for me. I wish there are 48 hrs a day. I will spend 28 hrs drawing and write stories! I don’t sleep a lot. haha

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

Go out for a drawing adventure in the wild. I love walking and just walk in nature. 

Anything you are habitual about when it comes to creativity?

I always start writing and play with the materials first if I want to play nowadays. And, I have to have tea, coffee, and some snack around. 

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

Yes. I met so many friendly people. I love all the editors I work with. They are some of the most amazing people I met. So encouraging. 

Recommended reading?

From my reading list this year. The Bluest Eye by Toni Morrison! I am almost done with it and highly recommend it!

Also, poetry!

What has been the highlight of your career thus far?

I get to grow as an illustrator and be an illustrator. If you told me I get to draw for a living ten years ago. I would not believe you. Haha, It’s genuinely a dream that comes true. 

What is something you wish someone had told you when you first started writing and illustrating?

There are going to be ups and downs, and your drawing will grow as you grow. 

And, don’t focus on a style. Focus on how you draw and what you want to draw. 

Can you tell us about your newest book?

Yes. My newest book is Lady Bird Johnson, That’s Who, written by Tracy Nelson Maurer.

It’s about the former first lady, Claudia Alta Johnson, aka Lady Bird Johnson, who help make America cleaner and greener!  

Interior art from LADY BIRD JOHNSON, THAT’S WHO by Tracy Nelson Maurer, illustrated by Ginnie Hsu

Interior art from LADY BIRD JOHNSON, THAT’S WHO by Tracy Nelson Maurer, illustrated by Ginnie Hsu

What’s up next for you?

I am currently working on a couple of books now and am also researching the book I am writing. I am very excited to jump into the other areas, like creating fabrics and products for my shop. It’s a never-ending career that’s full of excitement and surprise. 

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

Yes! Thank you all for creating! The world is so much better with stories you create and share. 

And last but not least, favorite 80s movie?

My neighbor, Totoro!! I grew up watching Miyazaki movies. It’s still one my favorite. 

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Huge thank you to Ginnie for stoping by Critter Lit today! We are such a huge fan of your illustrations and can’t wait to see what you come out with next!

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GINNIE HSU is an Illustrator, a Designer, an Educator, and a Maker living in Upstate New York. Her work is often inspired by my everyday life, human living, and her love for nature. She has received recognition in Creative Quarterly 55, 3x3 International Illustration Show No.15 (Picture Book Bronze, two Professional Merits), AI-AP International Motion Art Awards 6 (winner), and Uppercase Magazine No.38 “Fresh. Her clients and publications have included Macmillan, Henry Holt, Benchmark Education, Old Dungate Press, Breathe Magazine, American Greetings, and Babbel Magazine.

FOR MORE INFORMATION about Ginnie or her books, visit her online:

Instagram: @ginniehsu

Website: helloginniehsu.com

ORDER THIS BOOK To order a copy of any of Ginnie’s books, click here.

WIN A COPY! Want to win a copy of LADY BIRD JOHNSON, THAT’S WHO?! Leave a COMMENT below or RETWEET this post on Twitter. One lucky winner will be announced on Thursday, February 11th! US addresses only please.

Interview with Author and Illustrator Kyle Beckett

Happy Thursday Critters! I’m thrilled to be sharing today’s post with you all. It’s always lovely to have another illustrator stop by Critter Lit, especially one as talented as Kyle Beckett. I was first introduced to Kyle’s work through my husband, Frank Tupta. When Frank sold his first picture book manuscript, HOW TO BUILD A HAUNTED HOUSE, to Two Lions, I got a sneak peek into another side of the publishing process. Even after ten years in this business, I’d never seen the author-only perspective of making a picture book.

Two Lions shared Kyle’s work with Frank, and immediately both he and I knew it was a perfect fit. We were so impressed with his color palette and knew he’d be able to pull off a book set entirely at night— which I’ll be honest, as an illustrator, intimidated me about Frank’s manuscript. Frank loves all things spooky and Halloween so who ever was going to illustrate his text needed reflect that same enthusiasm in their work, which Kyle totally did!

There are so many wonderful details Kyle added into the art of HOW TO BUILD A HAUNTED HOUSE that don’t exist in the text— that’s the magic of a great match between author and illustrator. They both bring something to the table to really make the whole book sing. Personally, my favorite detail is the shrunken head wind chimes…classic!

So without further ado, please welcome Kyle Beckett!

Where do you live?

I live in Peachtree Corners, Georgia. It’s about 25 minutes away from downtown Atlanta, so I just say that most of the time.

How many years have you been in publishing?

I’ve been in publishing for about three years now. After a year and half of applying all around, the Bright Agency took me on as an illustrator!

How did you first get published?

There are actually two answers here! Before I started working with Bright, I self-published a book called A Lovely Day for a Drive on Amazon. It was just something to do so that I could show people I can make a book. 

After that, I got a few books published with Bright.

Do you write/illustrate full-time?

I do! Or perhaps it’s best to say that I am trying too. Right now, it’s all I do for work. There are some days it seems like a mountain I’ll never be able to climb. But so far I am making it work, in no small part due to my fiancée’s support. 

What inspires you to create picture books?

It all started with an instructor I met in college; his name is Regan Dunnick. The class was called ‘Children’s Book Illustration’ and I figured it would be a fun and easy class. By the time the semester ended, though, I was full-force into picture books. While studying for the class, I remember reading the book Sam and Dave Dig a Hole by Mac Barnett and Jon Klassen and thinking to myself, ‘yep, that’s how it’s supposed to be done.’

Beyond that, I’m inspired daily by other picture book makers. Abner Graboff, Benji Davies and Jon Klassen in particular got me into this form of storytelling. 

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

The most surprising thing for me is definitely how collaborative it can be! Before I graduated from college, I made all of my art quite personally. There were critiques and discussions in class, but for the most part I was drawing into the late hours of the night all alone by the light of a single desk lamp.

Now that I am a working professional, I’ve started working with authors and illustrators and agents and designers. It’s more than just me making these books now, and my work is all the better for it.

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

I love getting lost in research. I think my favorite part of making books is the beginning stages where there are no wrong answers and you’re just throwing everything you can possibly think of down onto the paper. It’s like being an explorer without ever leaving the house.

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

The mental side of being a storyteller is really difficult, even terrifying. There are days you get up, knowing you have to work, but not quite knowing where to start. It’s easy enough to tell yourself you’re going to write a book, but it’s another thing altogether to actually do it.

For me, that’s the most difficult thing; trying not to worry about tomorrow and focus on the task at hand today.

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

New ideas can come from anywhere. The trick, for me, is to keep your creative engine running at all times. Even in the grocery store, I might see something and make a mental note of it for later.

That being said, sometimes you need to distract yourself to ‘hit the reset button’ so to speak. To hit my reset button, I read books and I run a whole lot. Your reset button can be anything at all; meditation, TV, baking, whatever works. 

Anything you are habitual about when it comes to creativity?

Reading! I think one of the best ways to come up with ideas consistently is to be experiencing other people’s ideas as much as possible. For me, reading books does the trick. Watching a good movie will work too, but you have to be engaging with it, not just watching it to entertain yourself.

I try to think of creativity as a combination of different experiences or stories. The more you experience, the more you have to combine.

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

There are so many. The first one that comes to mind is from back when I was living in my hometown in Illinois. I had just self-published my book A Lovely Day for a Drive when my old grade school asked if I would come in and read for the kindergartners. 

I agreed, somewhat reluctantly, because I get very anxious if people are looking at me. I showed up on the day, and they took me to the gym and gave me a microphone. 

“Will I really be needing this?” I asked. “I think the kindergartners will be able to hear me just fine.”

“We want to make sure everyone can hear you,” they replied.

That was when I realized that I would be reading my book and doing a live drawing in front of the entire 300 person school.

Obviously I was nervous. But when the time came to start talking, it just happened. I read my book, did some drawings and answered a few questions. I wasn’t nervous at all. In the end, I realized that as long as I was talking about something that I truly loved, there was no reason to be scared. That’s when I knew I was on the right path.

Recommended reading?

That’s a good question! There are lots of picture books I would suggest; The Flight of Mister Finch by Thomas Baas, or Billy Twitters and his Blue Whale Problem by Mac Barnett and Adam Rex. If you’re into the oldies like me, I would suggest A Fresh Look at Cats by Abner Graboff.

As far as middle grade or young adult books go, I love The Westing Game by Ellen Raskin, The Graveyard Book by Neil Gaiman (anything by Mr. Gaiman, really), and The Doctor Dolittle Series by Hugh Lofting is quite incredible.

And then there are the more adult novels and comics as well; I have been really into H.P. Lovecraft lately, as well as the Barsoom novels by Edgar Rice Burroughs. Headlopper by Andrew Maclean is a great comic, and so is Tale of Sand by Jim Henson and Ramón K. Pérez.

What has been the highlight of your career thus far?

I have loved every minute of being in this industry so far, but I think the greatest experience has been seeing How to Build a Haunted House all wrapped up and bound together for the first time. It really felt great to have that story in my hands.

What is something you wish someone had told you when you first started writing/illustrating?

I wish I was told how much of the experience of making a book really feels strange. Most mornings it takes me an hour or so to settle down and stop asking myself, ‘wait, am I doing this right?’ 

It’s something I’ve come to accept now. If you feel like you’re doing it right, you might not be trying hard enough. It’s easy to slip into a ‘comfort zone’ when you’re working, and I wish someone had told me to keep pushing harder.

Dust Jacket from HOW TO BUILD A HAUNTED HOUSE written by Frank Tupta, Illustrated by Kyle Beckett

Can you tell us about your newest book?

I would love to! My newest book was written by Frank Tupta, and it’s called How to Build a Haunted House. It’s a fun, nighttime tale about some not-so-scary monsters trying to build a house for some displaced vampires. The whole thing is told with incredible rhymes that make you practically want to sing through the whole thing. 

Interior spread from HOW TO BUILD A HAUNTED HOUSE written by Frank Tupta, Illustrated by Kyle Beckett

My goal for this book was to have the illustrations really create a unique mood. I wanted it to feel dark and spooky but super light-hearted at the same time.

Interior spread from HOW TO BUILD A HAUNTED HOUSE written by Frank Tupta, Illustrated by Kyle Beckett

What’s up next for you?

I have another book coming out later this year, called The Knight Who Might by Lou Treleaven, as well as a book I wrote and illustrated called The Dog Ate My Homework that is publishing in simplified Chinese. I’m excited to see those two books in print.

Interior art from THE KNIGHT WHO MIGHT written by Lou Treleaven, illustrated by Kyle Beckett

Jacket from THE DOG ATE MY HOMEWORK by Kyle Beckett

Besides those books, I am working every day to write and illustrate new stories and get them published! There are loads of picture books I want to get out there, and even a middle grade book I’m trying to write.

Interior art from MY DOG ATE MY HOMEWORK

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

The only advice I feel qualified to give is to make sure you’re making the stories you want to make. I tell myself everyday that the stories in my head aren’t hiding anywhere else, and only I can get them out. 

Even if they aren’t perfect, keep telling stories.

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

This is Spinal Tap. No question! Without a doubt! (Don’t tell the Ghostbusters I said that)

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Huge thank you to Kyle for stopping by Critter Lit today! Needless to say, Frank and I love the illustrations you did for Frank’s text and we can’t wait to pick up your next book!

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In the third grade, KYLE BECKETT sold a drawing of a bluebird in sunglasses for a chocolate chip cookie at lunch. From that first commission, he was hooked. He knew he wanted to be an illustrator. 

He grew up in Rockford, Illinois, and later moved to Sarasota, Florida, to study illustration at Ringling College of Art and Design. He previously published A Lovely Day for a Drive, which he both wrote and illustrated, and he has more books forthcoming. He currently lives in Atlanta with his fiancée, Lauren, and his dog, Goose. They spend most of their time hiding behind doors to scare each other.

Follow him on Instagram @kylebeckett

PRE-ORDER THIS BOOK To pre-order a copy of HOW TO BUILD A HAUNTED HOUSE or THE KNIGHT WHO MIGHT, click here.

WIN A COPY! Want to win a copy of HOW TO BUILD A HAUNTED HOUSE?! Leave a COMMENT below or RETWEET this post on Twitter. One lucky winner will be announced on Thursday, October 1st! US addresses only please.

Interview with Cassandra Federman

Happy Thursday Critters! I’m so excited to have Cassandra Federman stop by today! Her debut book as an author/illustrator, THIS IS A SEA COW, just came out September 1st and IT IS ADORABLE! I can’t wait for you all to check it out!

So without further ado, please welcome…Cassandra Federman!

Where do you live?

I’m originally from Massachusetts, but I’ve lived in Los Angeles for the past 12 years.

When did you know you wanted to write/illustrate picture books?

About 5 years ago. I pitched an idea for a picture book to my husband (also a writer) and he encouraged me to go for it. He even got me a membership to SCBWI (Society for Children’s Book Writers and Illustrators) for our first anniversary. I think he might know me better than I know myself.

Tell us about your road to publication, what did that involve for you?

A lot of hard work! I hadn’t done any sketching since I was a teen, so I had a lot of catching up to do. I taught myself Photoshop, since that seemed to be the way the industry was heading. I went to as many SCBWI events, mingles, and conferences as I could. I started a critique group full of amazing individuals that I’d met at those events. I applied for every contest I could find through Twitter, kidlit blogs, and SCBWI. Finally, in 2017, I won two mentorship contests. The dummy I polished with the help of my mentors landed me my agent, Jenna Pocius. Jenna put two of my dummies out on submission and the second dummy sold in 48 hours!

Can you share a bit about your process?

Sure! The manuscript always comes first for me. I know that a lot of illustrators work the other way around, but I think I’m more of a writer who illustrates than an illustrator who writes. The manuscript goes through several rounds of notes with my critique group before I send it to my agent for her thoughts. After she’s signed off, I create the book dummy. The style of illustration I use really depends on the book. For instance, This Is a Sea Cow, was designed to look like a child’s school report, so I use a lot of photography and found objects. I also hand lettered it so that the writing would look like a child’s. Other dummies of mine include a graphic novel where I use ink and half tones, and an underwater story using watercolor and various other traditional media that I scan into photoshop. Once I complete the dummy, I send it back through my critique group, then to my agent for notes. Finally it goes out on submission and I start working on the next thing. (If I’m not working on something, then waiting on responses is excruciating!)

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

I think I’m lucky to be an author-illustrator because I can switch back and forth between writing and sketching, which allows me to keep the creative juices flowing. A tool I’ve found very helpful is Google docs. Whenever I get an idea I just pop it into a google doc with some notes. That way I’ve always got a list (that I can access from a phone or an iPad or a computer) of ideas to go back to.

Anything you can’t live without while you write/draw?

A digital tablet of some kind: iPad or Wacom Cintiq.

Any authors and/or illustrators who inspire you?

Kate Beaton, Jon Klassen, Dan Santat, Sophie Blackall, Shannon Hale, Lucy Ruth Cummins, Mo Willems, Ame Dyckman, and the list goes on!

Dream project to work on?

Oof, I don’t know. I guess any project that changes childrens’ lives for the better. Whatever THAT project is, I want to do it.

Tell us about your debut book.

This Is a Sea Cow is a fourth-wall-breaking book designed to look like a second grader’s school report on sea cows. The subject of the report does not like her portrayal, so Sea Cow--or Manatee as she prefers to be called--comes to life to set the record straight.

What’s up next for you?

I’ve got some exciting stuff in the works that I hope to be able to talk about soon!

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

The Princess Bride. I walked down the aisle to the theme song.

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Huge thank you to Cassandra for stopping by Critter Lit today! Congrats on your debut! We are so excited to see what you do next!

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CASSANDRA FEDERMAN is a writer and illustrator in Los Angeles, CA. She is originally from Massachusetts, but like manatees, she hates to be cold. She wanted to grow up to be a comic book artist and a marine biologist. She decided this book accomplishes both of those things. In college she studied abroad in Belize, where she rescued an orphaned manatee. She hopes this book will result in the rescue of many more.

FOR MORE INFORMATION about Cassandra Federman visit her online or follow her on social media:

Twitter/Instagram: @CassFederman

TO ORDER Cassandra’s book, ring up your local bookstore or click here.

BOOK GIVEAWAY!

Want a chance to win a copy of THIS IS A SEA COW?! Comment on this post or share it on Twitter. One lucky winner will be selected Thursday, September 12th! US addresses only please.

Interview with Author and Illustrator Susan Reagan

Happy Thursday Critters! Today I’m very excited to be sharing the work of one of my dear friends and critique partners, Susan Reagan! Sue is an incredibly talented illustrator and writer and I’m thrilled to have her with us on Critter Lit. Her newest board book, SIMON SAYS OPEN THE BOOK, written by Emilia Zebrowska, published with Creative Company this month. Her work is stunning and I can’t wait to share it with you all!

So without further ado, please welcome the fantastically talented Susan Reagan!

Where do you live?

I live in Tremont, a neighborhood of Cleveland, Ohio. Our neighborhood was once called the Southside. We sit directly between Cleveland’s Downtown and the Steelyards that once fueled the economy and life of the neighborhood. I love living in a city neighborhood!  It’s full of history and diversity and is my greatest inspiration as an artist. 

How many years have you been in publishing?

Quite a few. The first books I illustrated were for Christian publishers. But it wasn’t my primary source of work, I worked for American Greetings as an illustrator for the first half of my career. I still freelance for them; it’s my bread and butter work.

How did you first get published?

I had a brief stint with an agent back in the mid 90’s who got me my first book. It was MY LITTLE BOOK OF BIG BIBLE PROMISES. But it wasn’t a leap into publishing. I stayed with American Greetings for a while after that.

Do you write/illustrate full-time?

I have always illustrated full-time but for many markets. It’s only over the past five years that I have decided to dedicate myself mostly to publishing and picture books (I still have bills to pay so I do some other freelance too). I am working on my writing. I have a couple of manuscripts just about ready to share with my agent. They have been in the works for years. Writing is much more challenging for me than illustrating but I love to push myself. I have also started teaching illustration as adjunct faculty at the Cleveland Institute of Art. I’m loving it! 

What inspires you to create picture books?

My own manuscripts are based on visual puns or a funny phrase. I like silliness but the books I love to illustrate are more serious or complex. My drawing style is more observational and less character design driven. I love the use of line and I love a subtle limited color palette.

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

I guess what surprised me most is just how involved the process is and how different it is from the other types of illustration I’ve done. It’s a slower paced business and it took some time for me to adjust it. I‘m accustomed  to a quick turn around on assignments. But I love how much time I get to spend with a book while illustrating it. I love having time to really think things over.

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

I draw, design, paint, concept, every day!

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

The toughest part is sending out finished work and waiting. Even when you know the work is good there is something about waiting to hear from a creative director or an editor that makes most artist anxious. Most of us are naturally tough on ourselves. We don’t do this work just for ourselves. We want to hear that it worked; that we created something acceptable, beautiful, funny, touching, informative, whatever the goal. Also, I feel the weight of illustrating someone else’s story. I want to do right by them. I know how hard they worked to create their beautiful writing.

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

I was feeling a bit rusty a few years back. I got so caught up in the business of illustrating and creativity that I got a little lost. I went back to my first love of drawing people. I participated in The 100 Day Project on Instagram and made a drawing a day of people I observed. It really energized me. I loosened up my line work and started trusting my instincts again. I made so many discoveries that are now a part of my illustration style.

Anything you are habitual about when it comes to creativity?

Coffee is important. I think better when using my iPad and sitting in my living room than I do anywhere else. Also I like quiet when I am thinking so no music or background noise. If the windows are open and it’s a cool day— that’s the best!

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

My critique group without question! For over five years now I have benefited knowing these very talented women, one of which is the writer of this blog. Lindsay Ward, Betsy Snyder, Kellie DuBay Gillis, and Alissa McGough. Each one so smart, honest and talented! We give each other honest feedback and support each other’s successes and dreams. I have learned so much from this amazing group!

Recommended reading?

I’m reading THE UNDERGROUND RAILROAD by Colton Whitehead. I would highly recommend it!

What has been the highlight of your career thus far?

Last January I signed with Stephanie Fretwell-Hill at Red Fox Literary. I have already signed on to illustrate a book by Beth Anderson, who has visited this blog. She’s an amazing writer. I love AN INCONVENIENT ALPHABET and I can’t wait to get my copy of LIZZIE DEMANDS A SEAT. The title I will be working on is PRUDENCE WRIGHT AND THE MINUTE WOMEN, about Prudence Cummings Wright and the ways that women used their skills and ingenuity to contribute to the American Revolution. I’m just getting started!

What is something you wish someone had told you when you first started writing/illustrating?

Take the work seriously but don’t take yourself too seriously. Actually I have probably been told that a 100 times, I need to listen better.

Tell us about your newest book.

SIMON SAYS OPEN THE BOOK, written by Emilia Zebrowska, from Creative Editions just released this month. It’s a sweet little bed time board book  in which one last game of Simon Says turns into a fantastical journey into the night and off to dreamland.

Another recent release is YOU AND ME, another board book from Creative Editions, written by Rebecca Kai Dotlich. It made the American Library Association’s list of Notable Children’s Books for 2019. I was pretty happy about that.

What’s up next for you?

I just turned in LIGHTS OUT. I am very excited about this book! It’s a wonderful story written by Marsha Diane Arnold, published by Creative Editions, about the disruption that happens in nature and animal behaviors from too much light. It releases next fall. Here’s a sneak peek:

Sneak peek from LIGHTS OUT! written by Marsha Diane Arnold, Illustrated by Susan Reagan

Sneak peek from LIGHTS OUT! written by Marsha Diane Arnold, Illustrated by Susan Reagan

Sneak peek from LIGHTS OUT! written by Marsha Diane Arnold, Illustrated by Susan Reagan

Sneak peek from LIGHTS OUT! written by Marsha Diane Arnold, Illustrated by Susan Reagan

I’ll have another board book Creative Editions titled READY OR NOT. And then as mentioned above, PRUDENCE WRIGHT AND THE MINUTE WOMEN IN 2022.

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

I would say to remember that sometimes it can take a while to have the breakthrough you are looking for. Work on what you love and seek good critiques and don’t be afraid of an honest opinion. 

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

I don’t necessarily have a favorite but I remember laughing so hard at A Fish Called Wanda and Raising Arizona that I thought my sides would split. Wonder what I would think now?

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Huge thank you to Susan Reagan for stopping by Critter Lit today! We can’t wait to see all the fantastic books you have coming out!

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SUSAN REAGAN’S picture books include YOU & ME by Rebecca Kai Dotlich (Creative Company, 2018), SIMON SAYS OPEN THE BOOK by Emilia Zebrowska (Creative Company, 2019), and LIGHTS OUT! by Marsha Diane Arnold(Creative Company, 2020). She is currently illustrating PRUDENCE WRIGHT AND THE MINUTE WOMEN by Beth Anderson (Calkins Creek, 2022). Susan graduated with a BFA in Illustration from the Columbus College of Art and Design. She teaches illustration techniques as adjunct faculty at The Cleveland Institute of Art. Susan lives with her husband and three “mangy mutts” in Tremont, a historical neighborhood of her hometown of Cleveland, Ohio.

FOR MORE INFORMATION about Susan Reagan visit her online or follow her on social media:

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/susan_reagan/

TO ORDER Susan’s books, ring up your local bookstore or click here.

BOOK GIVEAWAY!

Want a chance to win a copy of SIMON SAYS OPEN THE BOOK?! Comment on this post or share it on Twitter. One lucky winner will be selected Thursday, September 5th! US addresses only please.