Interview with Author Emma Pearl

Happy Friday Critters! Today we have an interview with author Emma Pearl who is with us today all the way from New Zealand! I’m thrilled to have Emma with us today to talk about her writing process, start in publishing, and new book, MENDING THE MOON, illustrated by Sara Ugolotti, which came out with Page Street Kids this past November.

So without further ado, please welcome Emma Pearl!

Where do you live?

New Zealand – in a tiny rural community in Taranaki (in the west of the North Island), but I grew up in England and have spent most of my adult life either traveling or ping-ponging between the UK and NZ.

When did you know you wanted to write picture books?

I’ve always written stories. Roald Dahl was my great uncle (and dedicated The Twits to me when I was 7 years old!), so I had plenty of inspiration to become an author! I worked in children’s publishing for a while in my twenties and that reinforced my love of children’s literature, but it wasn’t until I had my own kids that I really began to focus on writing it. I also write middle grade and young adult novels – it just happened that a picture book text was the first one to be picked up by a publisher.

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

I began writing seriously in 2017, learning the craft and connecting with a wonderful online writing community. I started out writing a YA novel and then an MG, with a smattering of picture book manuscripts in between. I was selected as a WriteMentor mentee in 2020 for my MG novel and that was a huge confidence boost as well as a great learning experience. In October 2020, I entered #PBPitch and got a like for one of my picture books from Kayla Tostevin at Page Street Kids. We did a few rounds of revisions before I received an official book deal. It was all very exciting and unexpected, and I was so humbled and grateful. But it also felt a bit back-to-front – a book deal before I found an agent? I wasn’t sure how to deal with that and imposter syndrome was very real! But I kept plugging away – I focused on picture books in 2021, wrote many more texts and got a second book deal with the same publisher. I was also a WriteMentor mentor in 2021 and 2022 – a joyous experience where I learnt just as much being on the other end of the process. I wrote another YA novel towards the end of 2021 and signed with my agent in June 22. The novel is about to go out on submission!

 Can you share a bit about your process?

I write as often as I can, and I manage to squeeze in at least a couple of hours most days, although it’s not always writing per se – there’s so much peripheral stuff to do and never enough time! I have many different projects on the go at any one time, but when I’m in novel-writing mode I try to focus on that one thing until the first draft is completed.

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

I already have far too many ideas to turn into stories in one lifetime, thanks to many years of collecting them. I also have many projects that I’ve started but not finished, so if ever I feel rusty or lacking in inspiration I just read through my files until something shouts WRITE ME! If you’re struggling to generate new ideas, I recommend Tara Lazar’s Storystorm – it really helps to tune your mind into seeing story ideas everywhere.

 Anything you can’t live without while you write?

A keyboard. I often write notes by hand but the actual drafting has to be done on a computer of some kind. When I’m ‘in the zone’, the words flow from my fingers almost automatically, but that doesn’t happen when I’m writing by hand.

 Any authors and/or illustrators who inspire you?

Pat Zietlow Miller is a masterclass of picture book writing – I’ve learnt so much just by reading her texts. I also love Joanna Ho’s writing, Tom Percival’s books, Deborah Marcero and the O’Hara sisters.

 Tell us about your debut book.

Mending the Moon is the story of a little girl called Luna who sees the moon fall out of the sky one night. She drags her grandfather Poppa out of bed and they go out into the mountain forest where shattered pieces of the moon are glowing in the dark. They try to fix it together, but they need help from the animals before they can repair the moon and get it back into the sky. It’s beautifully illustrated by Sara Ugolotti, who has given it a truly magical setting and atmosphere.

Interior art from MENDING THE MOON by Emma Pearl, Illustrated by Sara Ugolotti published by Page Street Kids

Interior art from MENDING THE MOON by Emma Pearl, Illustrated by Sara Ugolotti published by Page Street Kids

Interior art from MENDING THE MOON by Emma Pearl, Illustrated by Sara Ugolotti published by Page Street Kids

 What’s up next for you?

Another story with the same characters will be published in September. In Saving the Sun, Luna, Poppa and the animals on the tropical island where they’re on vacation have to rescue the sun after it gets too hot and decides to go for a dip in the ocean. Sara’s illustrations are stunning again, with the warm summery vibes perfectly complementing the cold wintery mood of Mending the Moon. I’m so thrilled with how it’s turned out and can’t wait to share it!

 I also have a YA novel about to go out on submission, so will be tightly crossing my fingers and toes for that.

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

I think it has to be Matilda. I’ve always felt a great affinity with her for many reasons (not least that I think my great uncle may have based Miss Trunchbull loosely on one of my teachers!). Matilda is such an inspirational, strong female character – she’s clever, kind and brave. And of course, she’s a bookworm, which may be the reason for her extraordinariness and also makes her very relatable (to me anyway!).

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Huge thank you to Emma for stopping by Critter Lit today! Congrats on your debut! We can’t wait to see SAVING THE SUN!

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EMMA PEARL has written stories for as long as she can remember. She grew up in the UK, traveled the world and now lives with her family in New Zealand. Mending the Moon (illustrated by Sara Ugolotti, published by Page Street Kids) is her debut picture book. The sequel Saving the Sun will be published in September 2023. Emma also writes middle grade and young adult, is a WriteMentor picture book mentor, freelance editorial consultant, and is represented by Sera Rivers at Speilburg Literary. 

 FOR MORE INFORMATION follow Emma online:

Website: emmapearlauthor.com

Twitter: @emmspearl

Instagram: emmspearl

Mastodon: @emmspearl@mastodon.nz

BUY THIS BOOK To purchase a copy of Emma’s book, click here.

WIN A COPY! Want to win a giveaway copy of MENDING THE MOON?! Leave a COMMENT below or RETWEET this post on Twitter. One lucky winner will be announced on Thursday, February 9th! US addresses only please.

Interview with Author + Illustrator Berrie Torgan-Randall

Happy Thursday Critters! Today I’m interviewing a fellow Syracuse alum, and I’m so thrilled to have her with us today! Berrie Torgan-Randall’s debut BELLA & BLUE: BELLA MEETS BLUE is the first in a new graphic early reader series with Blue Bronco Books, Jr., which just released this month. I love the art and limited palette for this series, it’s incredibly sweet and charming.

So without further ado, please welcome Berrie Torgan-Randall to Critter Lit!

Where do you live?

I live in a small town, Media, southwest of Philadelphia, PA. It’s a lovely Philly suburb with a thriving downtown with shops and restaurants. Water is pronounced “Wooder” and you can order a cheesesteak “Wit or Witout (cheez whiz).”

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

I loved everything about art class – the burlap and glue collages, the linoleum prints, and the smell of the Tempera paint. In pursuit of this passion, I went to art school where I took all sorts of fine arts classes. I loved being in the art room, and there was one other special place where I loved to be—the school library. After working odd jobs after art school that weren’t very gratifying, I reconsidered my career options and remembered the joy of my time spent in the school library. I went to grad school to become an elementary school librarian.   

Being a librarian is my bread and butter, a profession that I love. However, my true passion is illustrating and writing children’s books.  It wasn’t until later after my kids went to school did I really pursue my dream of writing and illustrating for children.

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

Every Monday (sometimes it’s a Tuesday), I participate in a self ritual of “Marketing Monday” where I send out a portfolio query. Most often I hear crickets from my queries but one day I got a, “yes, we are interested in having you write and illustrate an early reader graphic novel.”

Can you share a bit about your process?

I set a timer for six minutes and write down as many ideas as I can in my sketchbook. I choose one or two of the ideas and then sketch very loose thumbnails on a storyboard. I write a script to go along with the thumbnails so that my editor can figure out the sketchy thumbnails. Once the script and thumbnails are approved, I start working on the character sketches and tighten up my thumbnail sketches. 

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

I don’t allow my mind to stew and obsess about a story. Allowing only six minutes for an initial idea helps my ideas stay fresh. That being said,  I have several manuscripts that I have stewed over which are now shelved and waiting for me to see them with fresh eyes.

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

Podcasts. My favorites are mysteries, docudramas, swindlers, and sci-fi. 

Any authors and/or illustrators who inspire you?

Melissa Iwai, Dan Santant, Judy Byron Schachner, Patrice Barton, Jennifer Hansen Rolli, Monica Carnesi, Michael Rex, Jennifer E Morris, Zachariah Ohora, Maurice Sendak, Steph Fizer Coleman, to name a few!

Dream project to work on?

I would love to illustrate and write an early chapter book - much like the Owl Diary series and to write and illustrate a book for babies and toddlers. I would also love to license my illustrations and my surface pattern designs so that I can see my illustrations on cards, fabrics, and gifts. I would love to illustrate for Highlights Magazine and continue receiving assignments for Ladybug Magazine. Oh and I like to garden so I would like to have a flower garden with flowers that are showie and beautiful and give away bouquets to everyone - currently my garden is a deer smorgasbord.

Tell us about your debut book.

Bella & Blue: Bella meets Blue  is a graphic early reader series that celebrates life's everyday struggles, silliness, and surprises. Eight year old Bella has anxiety. Small things aren't so small for Bella. But with the help of her colorful dog, Blue, and her grandma, Gigi, who has a flair for all things French and over-the-top hats, Bella can handle every day's twists and turns. Blue is the companion children dream of having. He's the therapy dog that plays paddy-cake to calm Bella's nerves & take away her blues. Celebrate the beauty of being blue, in this first of the graphic early reader series, Bella & Blue. Book 1 contains 3 short stories, perfect for the stamina of emerging readers ages K-3rd grade.

Sample art from BELLA & BLUE: BELLA MEETS BLUE written and illustrated by Berrie Torgan-Randall, published by Blue Bronco Books, Jr.

What’s up next for you?

I  have a six-panel illustration in the Nov/Dec issue of Ladybug Magazine. I will continue to query my art and stories and put myself out there on “Marketing Monday - sometimes Tuesday.” Also, I will plan and dream about next year’s garden.

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

The Breakfast Club - I was (and still am) the Ally Sheedy character - weird by lovable.

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Huge thank you to Berrie for stopping by Critter Lit today! Congrats on your debut!

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BERRIE TORGAN-RANDALL has been passionate about children’s literature since she was a little girl and has fed her desire by becoming a children’s librarian and by pursuing a career as an illustrator and writer of children’s books. Berrie studied at Syracuse University earning a BFA in Media Arts and Surface Pattern Design. Pursuing her desire to work with children, she returned to school and earned a Masters Degree in Information Studies at Drexel University. As a teacher/librarian and mother of three, Berrie has created and developed her stories drawn from real-life experiences and her imagination. Berrie is the Illustrator Coordinator for Eastern Pennsylvania Society of Children’s Book Writers and Illustrators (SCBWI) where she coordinates events and classes for illustrators. Bella & Blue is Berrie’s debut early reader graphic novel.

FOR MORE INFORMATION about Berrie, visit her online at www.berrietr.com or follow her on social media:

Twitter | Instagram

ORDER THIS BOOK To order a copy of BELLA & BLUE: BELLA MEETS BLUE, click here.

WIN A COPY! Want to win a copy of BELLA & BLUE?! Leave a COMMENT below or RETWEET this post on Twitter. One lucky winner will be announced on Thursday, October 13th! US addresses only please.

Interview with Author Charlotte Offsay

Happy Thursday Critters! Today we have an interview with a debut author who has had her first TWO books come out this year, followed by a THIRD which will come out in March of next year! I’m thrilled to have her with us today to talk about her work, road to publication, and writing process.

So without further ado, please welcome Charlotte Offsay!

Where do you live?

I was born in England, grew up in Boston and now live in Los Angeles California with my husband and two young children, Eliana (7) and Thomas (5).

When did you know you wanted to write picture books?

I have always loved creative writing, but I didn’t pursue it for a long time and actually worked in corporate finance for a number of years before leaving to become a stay at home mother after my daughter Eliana was born. After my son Thomas was born, I joined a parenting group where the coordinator encouraged us all to carve out time for ourselves and do something just for us. Everyone chose something different, and I decided to sign up for Writing Picture Books for Children: A Beginning Workshop, via UCLA extension online. My children were tiny, and I didn’t have time to attend an in-person class, but an online class seemed manageable and I knew my instructor was right that I needed something outside of caring for my family that was just for me. I fell head over heels for picture books in that class, kept writing and taking classes and never looked back. 

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

I took my first picture book class via UCLA extension’s online program in the summer of 2017 and fell in love with all things picture book. From there I joined numerous groups such as SCBWI, 12x12 and Inked Voices and spent the next couple of years attending conferences, taking webinars, enrolling in online classes (Children’s Book Academy, Lyrical Language Lab etc.), as well as reading every picture book and craft book (Big Magic, Ann Whitford Paul’s Writing Picture Books etc.) that I could get my hands on. 

Through these various groups and classes I connected with my invaluable critique partners and wrote countless manuscripts. In early 2019 I found myself between agents and while waiting to hear back on outstanding queries, I looked around to see how else I could get my work seen. I decided to pitch How to Return a Monster in a twitter pitch contest called #PBPitch to see if I could drum up any agent interest that way. 

I didn’t get any agent requests but to my delight I did get one from a publisher! Andrew DeYoung at Beaming Books liked my tweet/pitch and asked me to send him the manuscript. Shortly after I sent the manuscript over to Beaming Books, I signed with the wonderful Nicole Geiger at Full Circle Literary and we signed a contract with Beaming Books for How to Return a Monster a few months later!

Can you share a bit about your process?

Every manuscript I write seems to follow its own path but usually an idea crawls under my skin and won’t let me rest until I write and rewrite and have a completed crummy first draft. Now that my kids are a bit older, I tend to write in the mornings after dropping them off at school but as anyone with young kids knows, I have to be flexible and often find myself writing in the cracks (school pickup line) or after my kids are asleep. Once I have a draft that isn’t too embarrassing, I share it with my closest critique partners who have become my dearest friends. They help me to see what is and isn’t working and we go back and forth via email and phone until I feel ready to share it with my agent Nicole Geiger of Full Circle Literary. From there, Nicole and I figure out if there are changes that still need making, if there is a market for the story and where in our submission schedule the story should go.

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

Personally, my best stories tend to come from the things that take up the most room in my heart. I tend to mine the emotions and events in my life that I am currently consumed with and try to write about those events or emotions through a child lens. If my well is feeling particularly dry, I like to go back through my old manuscripts to see if I can take a nugget from one of them in a new direction (POV, story structure, different characters etc) as well as reading as many new picture books as I can get my hands on. 

Anything you can’t live without while you write?

I prefer to write when it is quiet, and I have a good few hours all to myself. Coffee and chocolate have been known to make regular appearances during those times. That said, I have learned to make the most of the carpool line so nothing is a must!

Any authors and/or illustrators who inspire you?

SO many. Julia Donaldson is my hands down favorite picture book author - I think the woman is a rhyming story telling genius. My critique partners continue to inspire me with the incredible projects they keep producing – I won’t list them though for fear of leaving anyone out. I am also continually inspired by the incredible illustrators that I follow on Instagram via accounts such as @theillustrationstation and @illustration_the_best.

Dream project to work on?

A true dream project would be any manuscript that doesn’t fight back in the revision process ☺. 

Tell us about your new book.

How to Return a Monster is a humorous how-to story about a girl who can't believe it when her parents bring home a fussy, stinky, attention-stealing monster. She hatches a plan to send it back to where it came from, with hilarious results . . . and along the way, she learns that maybe monsters--and baby siblings--aren't so bad after all. 

It is illustrated by Rea Zhai and publishes with Beaming Books on September 7, 2021. 

Interior art from HOW TO RETURN A MONSTER by Charlotte Offsay, illustrated by Rea Zhai

Interior art from HOW TO RETURN A MONSTER by Charlotte Offsay, illustrated by Rea Zhai

Interior art from HOW TO RETURN A MONSTER by Charlotte Offsay, illustrated by Rea Zhai

What’s up next for you?

I am excited to share that my next picture book, A Grandma’s Magic, illustrated by Asa Gilland publishes on March 1, 2022 from Doubleday Books for Young Readers/Penguin Random House.

Description from my publisher: 

"When a child is born, a grandma is born too. Grandmas aren't like regular grown-ups. Grandmas are filled with magic."

In this charming picture book tribute to grandmas, a grandma's magic bursts through the door as soon as she comes to visit and can be seen in every wonderful thing she does: playing, exploring, baking, gardening, and in all the many ways a grandma and grandchild connect.

Filled with adorable scenes featuring a diversity of grandmas and their grandkids, this is a book that will families can enjoy together. Grandmas will love snuggling with their grandchildren as they share their love and "magic" through cuddles, kisses, and many repeat readings.

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

Fun question! The Princess Bride!

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Huge thank you to Charlotte for stopping by Critter Lit today! Congrats on all your wonderful books!

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CHARLOTTE OFFSAY was born in England, grew up in Boston, and currently lives in Los Angeles with her husband and two small children. Through her work, Charlotte hopes to make children laugh, to inspire curiosity, and to create a magical world her readers can lose themselves in time and time again. 

Charlotte is the author of The Big Beach Cleanup, illustrated by Kate Rewse (Albert Whitman, 2021), How to Return a Monster, illustrated by Rea Zhai (Beaming Books, September 2021), and A Grandma’s Magic, illustrated by Asa Gilland (Doubleday Books for Young Readers, March 2022). 

FOR MORE INFO about Charlotte's work at charlotteoffsay.com and follow her on Twitter at @COffsay and on Instagram at @picturebookrecommendations. Charlotte is represented by Nicole Geiger at Full Circle Literary.

BUY THIS BOOK To order copies of Charlotte’s books, click here.

WIN A COPY! Want to win a copy of HOW TO RETURN A MONSTER?! Leave a COMMENT below or RETWEET this post on Twitter. One lucky winner will be announced on Thursday, September 30th! US addresses only please.

Interview with Debut Author Carrie Finison

Happy Thursday Critters! Today we have an interview with Carrie Finison, whose debut picture book is one I’ve been excited about all year, DOZENS OF DOUGHNUTS, illustrated by Brianne Farley! It’s got math, it’s got animals, it’s got rhyme, AND it’s got DOUGHNUTS— one of my absolute favorite treats (seriously, they were the favors at my wedding, that’s how much I love them)! What more could you ask for?! I’m thrilled to have her stop by Critter Lit today to talk about her road to publication, process, and upcoming books. So without further ado, please welcome Carrie Finison!

Where do you live?

I live in Arlington, Massachusetts. The town’s former name is Menotomy, which the teenagers snarkily call Monotony. But it’s actually a fun and interesting town filled with fun and interesting people. Especially the teenagers.

When did you know you wanted to write picture books?

I think I always thought writing picture books would be a really cool thing to do, but kind of in the same way that you think of climbing Mount Everest or going to the moon as a really cool thing to do. It was probably around 2010 that I started to think I could actually try to write picture books and maybe even get one published. I was already writing for children on a work-for-hire basis for educational publishers at that point, and I was reading TONS of picture books with my own two kids. I think the combination of those two factors made it feel slightly possible — or at least slightly *more* possible than climbing Everest or going to the moon.

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

It’s been a long and bumpy road. I took my first picture book writing class in 2010. I had been doing work-for-hire writing as I mentioned above, and also had some success getting acceptances with children’s magazines so it felt like a natural next step. I joined a few writing groups including SCBWI, and took more classes like Susanna Hill’s Making Picture Book Magic. I started going to conferences. I joined several critique groups. I kept writing, sending a few manuscripts to editors, but set my sights on landing an agent. I was honored to win the Barbara Karlin Work-in-Progress grant from SCBWI in 2014. I thought for sure that manuscript would sell and, while it came very close at several houses, it didn’t. It wasn’t until 2017 that my agent was able to sell the first manuscript — one that I never thought would be my debut — and DOZENS OF DOUGHNUTS was on its way to publication.

Can you share a bit about your process?

I tend to write in spurts, so once I have an idea I’m off to the races with a rough draft. Then I share with my critique groups for feedback, revise, share again, and so on. At some point I usually get stuck and then it goes in a drawer for anywhere from 2-6 months so I can look at it with fresh eyes later.

Also, even though I’m a writer-only, I always make a dummy book by folding together half-sheets of paper and taping my cut-up manuscript to them. Sometimes I draw little stick-figure pictures on each page, or just pencil in a written description of what I think could appear there. I carry this little mini-book around with me for several weeks so that whenever I’m sitting around at a kid’s soccer game or dentist appointment, I can take it out and page through it, making edits to the text as they occur to me.

Since I often write in rhyme, a big part of my process involved staring off into space trying to come up with different ways to say the same thing, and combing through Rhymezone.com and other rhyming dictionaries to come up with interesting rhymes. I also ask other people to read the manuscript aloud to me so I can hear it in someone else’s voice. My family is very patient!

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

There’s an exercise that Ann Whitford Paul mentions in her book Writing Picture Books, that I do quite often. Her recommendation is to type out the text of an already-published picture book in order to study the page turns, how much text is on each page, and so on. I find it valuable for that kind of study, but also to ease myself into the writing mood — just the act of typing sentences written by someone else gets my ear, voice, and fingers ready to do my own writing.

Anything you can’t live without while you write?

Rhymezone.com for sure, if I’m writing in rhyme! 

I also like to make myself a cup of decaf coffee or tea, take a few sips, and then let it go stone cold while I get absorbed in what I’m doing. Then I reheat it in the microwave, but forget that I have done so and rediscover it around dinner time. It’s all part of the process.

Any authors and/or illustrators who inspire you?

There are so many! 

Picture book authors: I love Ame Dyckman’s work. It’s always clever and unexpected. Pat Zietlow Miller gets heart on every page. Laura Gehl is an incredible writer with great language, and her humor really appeals to me.

Illustrators: Oge Mora is my favorite author/illustrator at the moment. I loved Saturday and Thank You, Omu, and her illustrations for Rita Lorraine Hubbard’s The Oldest Student were brilliant. Ekua Holmes’s work in The Stuff of Stars by Marion Dane Bauer blew me away, and I was equally starry-eyed over Diana Sudyka’s illustrations in Hayley Barrett’s gorgeous book, What Miss Mitchell Saw.

All genres: I always look for anything new by Grace Lin, in any genre. I also love Kelly Starling Lyons’s work. Linda Sue Park blew me away equally with her picture book Xander’s Panda Party (rhyme I can aspire to) and the middle-grade A Long Walk to Water. Cece Bell cracks me up, always.

SOMEBODY STOP ME!!! Really, I could go on all day.

Dream project to work on?

I don’t know that I’ve dreamed it up yet! I tend to get very enthusiastic about whatever I’m working on currently, which actually makes the inevitable rejections that roll in a little easier to take. My advice to picture book writers is, always be so in love with your current project that rejections on your older projects don’t sting so badly. That’s been true for me so far.

Interior spread from DOZENS OF DOUGHNUTS written by Carrie Finison, illustrated by Brianne Farley

Tell us about your debut book.

My debut is called DOZENS OF DOUGHNUTS. It’s about a bear named LouAnn whose getting ready for hibernation by making herself a giant batch of doughnuts (as one does). However, her neighbors begin to drop by and she ends up dividing all her doughnuts between them and forgetting to save any for herself. Then she runs out of ingredients. LouAnn expresses her feelings about this rather loudly, scaring her friends. But (surprise!) they come back with an apology, and pitch in to make a giant doughnut party with plenty for everyone. So it’s about sharing, friendship, math (as each batch of 12 doughnuts is divided by the factors of 12 – 2, 3, 4, and then 6) and of course DOUGHNUTS! And, the illustration by Brianne Farley are absolutely delectable. Fair warning – if you read it, you will want a doughnut!

What’s up next for you?

My second book, DON’T HUG DOUG, comes out in January, 2021, from Putnam. It’s about a boy who says “no, thanks!” to hugs, and is meant to (humorously) spark conversations about consent and bodily autonomy with children. Daniel Wiseman is the illustrator and his child characters are colorful and full of fun.

After that, HURRY, LITTLE TORTOISE will hit the shelves in 2022 from Random House. It’s about a little tortoise who has grand illusions of herself as speedy. She tries her hardest to get to school on time, but keeps getting passed by her classmates. There’s a funny twist at the end that I hope will bring a smile to readers faces. Erin Balzer is illustrating the story. She recently posted some hint on Instagram that she’s beginning the illustration work and I CAN’T WAIT TO SEE IT. Also, I love it when illustrators do that.

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

Pretty tough to pick just one! But if I had to, I think I’d say Ferris Bueller’s Day Off. Ohhhh YEAH!

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Huge thank you to Carrie for stopping by Critter Lit today! Congrats on your debut and all your upcoming books! We can’t wait to read them all!

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CARRIE FINISON began her literary career at the age of seven with an idea, a box of markers, and her father’s typewriter. She has been writing off and on ever since, though she has (somewhat regretfully) traded in the typewriter for a laptop. Her debut picture book is DOZENS OF DOUGHNUTS (July, 2020), and a second picture book, DON’T HUG DOUG, will follow in January, 2021. She also writes for children's magazines including Babybug, Ladybug, High Five, and Highlights. When she’s not writing, Carrie enjoys reading mystery novels, trying new recipes, and curling up on the couch for family movie nights. She lives outside Boston with her husband, son, daughter, and two cats who permit her to write in their cozy attic office. Find her online at www.carriefinison.com or follow her on social media:

Website: https://www.carriefinison.com

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/carrie.finison

Twitter: https://twitter.com/CarrieFinison

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

BUY THIS BOOK To order a copy of Carrie’s debut picture book, DOZENS OF DOUGHNUTS, click here.

WIN A COPY! Want to win a copy of DOZENS OF DOUGHNUTS?! Leave a COMMENT below or RETWEET this post on Twitter. One lucky winner will be announced on Thursday, August 20th! US addresses only please.

Interview with Debut Author Elisa Boxer

Happy Thursday Critters! Well…since we last shared an interview in late February, the whole pandemic thing hadn’t really blown up yet, so needless to say things have changed quite a bit in the last few weeks. I hope you are all safe and well! Our household has become a little more chaotic now that we’ve got three kiddos at home and no school. Yet, even amidst all the crazy right now, if feels really good to sit down and do something positive, like sharing another fantastic debut author and their new book. So let’s keep it going, maintain our social distancing, and celebrate this week’s Critter Lit author…

…please welcome Elisa Boxer!

Where do you live?

I live in the southern Maine town of Scarborough. We have a foot of snow on the ground right now and just got our power back after an ice storm. Is it spring yet?

When did you know you wanted to write picture books?

As soon as I could hold a magic marker! Here are a few books from my younger years:

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

Even though I've loved writing children's book manuscripts for as long as I can remember, I never really considered making a career of it. I was always busy in the trenches of newspapers and then tv stations, churning out stories on daily deadline. After that, I became a journalism instructor at the University of Southern Maine. And then, a couple of years ago, I got sidelined with Lyme disease, which left me short of breath and energy. Some days it hurt to move. Most days I couldn't leave the house.

So I decided I would re-visit my childhood passion, and began querying agents with a picture book manuscript. A couple months later, I signed with the amazing Steven Chudney. And while that first manuscript was out on submission, he emailed me about the upcoming 2020 suffrage centennial, asking if I might like to write a book about it. I've always been drawn to stories about little-known figures in history, so I started researching unsung heroes in the women's suffrage movement. When I came across the story of Febb Burn, I knew hers was a story I wanted to tell.

It was going to be a tight turnaround to get this manuscript ready for submission and hopefully publication in time for the suffrage centennial. So I dove into the research, stayed up late and got up early to write, and a few weeks later we sent out the manuscript. It couldn't have found a more perfect editor than Sarah Rockett at Sleeping Bear Press. From the editing process, to seeing the initial sketches, to holding the book in my hand, to connecting with teachers, parents, bookstores and librarians, the process has been more delightful than I can even convey. It still seems surreal. With newspaper articles and tv stories, the work is kind of a one-and-done. But books last. They convey messages and feelings that children can hold in their hands and absorb again and again. It's a sacred process, and I am beyond grateful that I get to participate in it.

Can you share a bit about your process?

As a nonfiction writer and a journalist, I spend a lot of time researching. During this phase, I hole up and dig deep into my subject matter, mining for facts and threads to weave into a story. I write everything down in notebooks, on index cards, and on pieces of paper that I spread out over the floor and tack up on bulletin boards. During this phase, it's often hard to find an empty surface in the house. But while this process is going on, I am also thinking deeply about the heart of the story, and the emotional pull that drew me to it in the first place. I try to identify early on the messages and themes I want readers to take away from the book, and I keep those at the forefront throughout the writing process. In THE VOICE THAT WON THE VOTE, for example, the message is: Your voice matters. Important themes include courage and, more specifically, standing up for what you believe in even when it's unpopular.

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

Whenever I hit a writing wall, I give my brain a rest and a treat by reading, doodling, or just sitting in stillness. Or eating chocolate. As for new ideas, the more I try to think of them, the less they come to me. Instead, they pop up while I'm driving, at the grocery store, or other times when I am least likely to be able to jot them down. And they generally first come up in terms of feelings, sensations and emotions, from which a research angle or a narrative arc will emerge.

Anything you can’t live without while you write?

My crystals. And dark chocolate. And apparently lots of clutter, because every time I try to clear it away, it comes back.

Any authors and/or illustrators who inspire you?

Oh, so many. I've always been inspired by Ruth Krauss' classic The Carrot Seed. My parents read it to me when I was young, and it was one of my favorites to read to my son when he was little. The message is ageless: Never give up on what you know to be true, regardless of what others are telling you. As for more contemporary books, I love anything by Kate Messner, Andrea Davis Pinkney, Jess Keating, Jacqueline Woodson, Gary Schmidt and Susan Hood. I'm inspired by all of the pre-published creators I see on social media, putting themselves out there and taking risks. I'm inspired by my fellow picture book creators in the Soaring 20s debut group, who have such a diverse range of talents and give their time and energy every day to help the collective.

Dream project to work on?

I'm working on it right now! So unfortunately I can't say what it is. Ack! Sorry. But it involves attempted silence and voices being heard against the odds...

Tell us about your debut book.

THE VOICE THAT WON THE VOTE: How One Woman's Words Made History, is published by Sleeping Bear Press, and tells the little-known story of the mother who saved suffrage. She did that by writing a letter to her son, who happened to be the swing vote in Tennessee, the battleground state that was deciding whether to give women the right to vote. Illustrator Vivien Mildenberger has done a phenomenal job bringing the characters and setting to life in a way that truly makes you feel like you're back in 1920! Since we're in the suffrage centennial this year, and also given the upcoming election, it's an exciting time to be releasing this book!

What’s up next for you?

I'm in the process of writing four more picture books and a middle grade.

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

I love this question. And it's always fun to read how my colleagues answer it. For me, Molly Ringwald all the way! Sixteen Candles, The Breakfast Club, Pretty in Pink... I remember feeling so much teenage angst in the 80s, and Molly's characters always seemed to validate it and reflect it back.

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Huge thank you to Elisa for stopping by Critter Lit today. Congrats on your debut! We can’t wait to see what you write next!

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ELISA BOXER is an Emmy-winning journalist and columnist whose work has appeared in publications including The New York Times, Inc. and Fast Company. She has been a newspaper, magazine and television reporter, and has been writing children's stories for as long as she can remember. Elisa is especially drawn to unsung heroes, like the ones in her first book: The Voice That Won the Vote: How One Woman's Words Made History.

FOR MORE INFORMATION on Elisa, follow her on social media:

website: http://elisaboxer.com/

twitter: https://twitter.com/eboxer

instagram: https://www.instagram.com/boxerelisa/

BUY THIS BOOK To purchase Elisa’s book, click here.

TEACHER’S GUIDE To download a teacher’s guide for THE VOICE THAT WON THE VOTE: HOW ONE WOMAN’S WORDS MADE HISTORY, click here.

BOOK GIVEAWAY!

Want a chance to win a copy of THE VOICE THAT WON THE VOTE: HOW ONE WOMAN’S WORDS MADE HISTORY?! Comment on this post or share it on Twitter. One lucky winner will be selected Thursday, March 26th. 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.

Debut Interview with Jenn Harney

Happy Thursday Critters! It’s been a while— but it’s great to be back! I’ve had a crazy few weeks with ALA and deadlines— I’m trying to push through the rest of the summer until baby no. 3 arrives! BUT I’m so excited to be back to our interview schedule with fellow local author and illustrator Jenn Harney! I’m thrilled to be sharing Jenn’s work with you all today. Her debut, UNDERWEAR! just came out this past April with Disney/Hyperion and it is HILARIOUS— I just know you’re all going to love it!

So without further ado…please welcome Jenn Harney!

Where do you live?

Twinsburg, Ohio. I usually say “Clevelandish” because people know where Cleveland is. Twinsburg, not so much.

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

I met Tomie dePaola from a far at a Young Author’s Conference when I was, I think, in second grade. It was the first time it ever occurred to me that people could write and illustrate books as a job.

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

I was VERY VERY lucky. When I signed with my agent, Rachel Orr, she asked if I wrote. So, I started writing. My first story went nowhere. My second story was UNDERWEAR! It was picked up by Stephanie Lurie at Disney Hyperion on its first round of submissions. Right time. Right place. Right Editor. I was very lucky.

Can you share a bit about your process?

My process always starts with drawings. I love character design and that’s where I start. Just doodling characters and seeing if any of them have any merit. Then, I play with the story. I write everything on legal envelopes. Easy to throw out. Usually I thumbnail a dummy as I write. Everything is always visual with me. The words come afterwards.

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

I’ve learned that if I’m having a bad drawing day to walk away from it. It’ll pass. If I force it, nothing looks good. I’ll get more done in a good drawing day than if I try to force it on a bad one. The Colour Collective weekly drawing challenge is a huge part of the rust shaking, too. Just a great group of illustrators. Just follow the #colour_collective tag on Fridays around 2:30 EST, and you’ll see what I mean.

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

Something to listen to. Not music. Usually has to be an audiobook, or episodes of MST3K or RuPaul’s Drag Race. Have to have talking in the background.

Any authors and/or illustrators who inspire you?

So many! Bill Watterson, Paul Coker Jr., Tomie DePaola, Tom Yohe, Steven Kellogg, P.D.Eastman, Richard Scarry, David McKee, Alan Tiegreen....I could keep going.

Dream project to work on?

Little Golden Books. I’ve always wanted to do a Little Golden Book.

Tell us about your debut book.

UNDERWEAR! Started with a Colour Collective piece I did. The story worked itself out on a walk with my ever stubborn corgi lodged under a bush and my ever loud self yelling “Get out from under there.” And he looked up at me like “Under where?” and it clicked. Steve went on an extra long walk that day as I looked like a crazy person tapping out syllables and talking out loud about underwear.

UNDERWEAR! Is pretty much autobiographical. I am the frazzled parent who just wants to get their kid out of the tub, into PJs and off to bed. My daughter is said kid who finds ENDLESS ways to keep herself out of bed. I think every parent has been on both sides of this story. And, stories about underwear are never not going to be funny. It’s just a fun word to say.

What’s up next for you?

My second book SWIM, SWIM, SINK is slated for launch in early 2020. Fingers crossed I can just keep working along.

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

Amadeus or Empire Strikes Back or Time Bandits. Don’t make me choose. (Oooo...Sophie’s Choice is good too!)

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Huge thank you to Jenn for stopping by Critter Lit today! We are so excited for you and your fantastically funny debut! Congrats!

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JENN HARNEY has illustrated several picture books, including Todd Tarpley’s HOW TO BECOME A KNIGHT (Sterling), NEVER CRUMPET WITH A TRUMPET (Boyd Mills Press), SMELLY KELLY (Boyd’s Mills Press). She has
also illustrated the covers and interiors for Jennifer Hamburg’s Hazy Bloom series (FSG), and Susan Lurie’s Wanda Seasongood series (Disney-Hyperion).

Jenn made her author-illustrator debut with UNDERWEAR (Disney-Hyperion) to be followed up by SWIM, SWIM, SINK in 2020 (Disney-Hyperion). She enjoys working at break-neck pace at her desk while binge watching old episodes of “Mystery Science Theater 3000” and “RuPaul’s Drag Race”. Jenn lives in Cleveland, Ohio, with her husband, her daughter, a dog named Steve and the ghost of the oldest living goldfish in North America.

FOR MORE INFORMATION about Jenn visit her online at jkharney.blogspot.com or follow her on social media:

Instagram + Twitter: @jennharknee

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

BOOK GIVEAWAY!

Want a chance to win a SIGNED copy of UNDERWEAR?! Comment on this post or share it on Twitter. One lucky winner will be selected Thursday, July 18th! US addresses only please.

What's up on deck? Tune in next week for an interview with author/illustrator Debbie Ridpath Ohi!

Interview with Debut Author Sheri Dillard

Happy Thursday Critters! Today we have an interview with debut author Sheri Dillard! Her picture book, COWHIDE-AND-SEEK (how cute is that title??!), illustrated by Jess Pauwels, just came out this past Tuesday. (Congrats Sheri!) We are thrilled to have her with us on Critter Lit today!

So without further ado…please welcome Sheri Dillard!

Where do you live?

Atlanta, GA

When did you know you wanted to write picture books?

When my three sons were picture book age, we lived in Lewisburg, a small, central Pennsylvania town. Our friendly borough was surrounded by rolling hills of farmland, and it was almost like living in the pages of a picture book. 

It was during this time that I created COWHIDE-AND-SEEK. I wasn’t even writing yet, but I woke up one night around 2am with the idea of a cow character who accidentally leaves her farm and (unknowingly) creates chaos wherever she goes. I loved it so much that I jumped out of bed and quickly wrote it down so I wouldn’t forget. I'm not sure why I wanted to remember it, exactly. Maybe I just wanted to share my dream with my husband and kids? But the next day, I started writing. 

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

Those kids of mine that I mention above? The picture book aged ones? They are now in college and beyond, so that gives you an idea of the length of my road!  But it all worked out pretty well, actually. Now in my first year as an empty-nester, I have my debut book to focus on. And its release date is just before my twin sons come home from their first year of college, so they can help me celebrate. Great timing!

A few months after I first started writing, I discovered SCBWI. It's such a helpful and supportive community, and I always mention it to anyone interested in writing for children. And it was through SCBWI that I connected with my two critique groups. (Hi Crumpled Paper and Critcasters!) Both the experiences of getting critiques and giving critiques helped me grow as a writer. (And still do!)

I spent years writing, revising, critiquing, and then repeating with more writing, revising, and critiquing. I went to conferences. Sent submissions to editors and agents. Eventually, my form letters improved to personal letters and finally to revision requests. And I came really close a couple times.

But my big break came during a Twitter pitch party. (Which is such a surprise because I am still learning how all this social-media stuff works! LOL) The event was called #PBPitch and it eventually led to me signing with my agent Liza Fleissig. We haven't sold the manuscript that she signed me for - (yet!) - but I love that COWHIDE-AND-SEEK will be my first book. And I love that this story found a home at Running Press Kids. Julie Matysik and her team at RPK are wonderful!    

Can you share a bit about your process?

I love to revise. It feels like working on a puzzle, and it is so satisfying when everything starts to fit together. And I love working on manuscripts that I haven't read in a while because I'm seeing them not only with "fresh eyes" but also with the eyes of a more experienced writer.

An important part of my revision process is to read the manuscript out loud. It really helps me see (and hear!) what needs adjusting. I'm a librarian at a preschool, and I have regular weekly storytimes in all the classes. (Love it!) Sometimes, when I'm at home working on a new story, I'll read it out loud and imagine that I'm reading it to one of the classes. It soon becomes clear where I might lose the kids' interest or where things might be confusing. And also where things might be funny or exciting. And that very last page, right before I say, "the end," needs to be satisfying, in some way. 

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

Ideas usually come to me when I'm not paying attention, LOL. I've gotten several ideas when I'm out for a run, and as I'm running, I'll record the ideas on my phone. The combination of my southern accent and the huffing and puffing (from my run) makes for interesting notes, and sometimes that will spark another idea! 

Captain

Anything you can’t live without while you write?

Laptop. Coffee. And I love having my writing companion, Captain, nearby. (He's great at reminding me to take writing-breaks with a nice walk around the neighborhood.)

Any authors and/or illustrators who inspire you?

Ooh, that will be hard to narrow down. I love fun and silly picture books, so I'll say Tammi Sauer, Doreen Cronin, Jan Thomas, and Chris Haughton. One of my all-time favorite picture books to give as a gift is BARK, GEORGE by Jules Feiffer. 

Dream project to work on?

Actually, I like to think that my dream already came true. Literally! That story idea that woke me up at 2am is the idea that started my writing career and will be my very first picture book. Pretty dreamy, I'd say.

Tell us about your debut book.

COWHIDE-AND-SEEK is about a cow, Bessie, who hears her farmer counting and mistakenly thinks he's starting a game of hide-and-seek. She hurries off to hide and accidentally leaves the farm. Now, the farmer really IS looking for her, but it's not because he's playing the game-- it's because his cow is missing! 

And since Bessie has left the farm, her hiding spots are in places where you typically wouldn't see a cow. Poor thing, it's hard to stay hidden when people keep pointing at you and saying things like, "I see a cow!" Each time, Bessie patiently tries to explain how important it is to stay quiet while hiding, but no one understands "moo." So she has to mooove on...

I love Bessie's earnest efforts to find the perfect hiding spot and her joy in simply playing the game. (The illustration on the very last page is my favorite. :)

What’s up next for you?

As I write this, I'm preparing for my book launch party at my favorite children's bookstore, Little Shop of Stories in Decatur, GA. And on the book's release date, May 7th, I'll be celebrating with some of my favorite people (kids and adults!) at the preschool where I work. It will be a special storytime for me because I'll be sharing my very own book with everyone. (And rumor has it that my preschool director plans to dress up as a cow that day and "hide" around the school. So fun!)

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

Oh my goodness-- I just checked the release dates for my three favorite movies, and they were all made in the 80s! Moonstruck, When Harry Met Sally, and Raising Arizona.

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Huge thank you to Sheri for stopping by Critter Lit today! We are so excited for your debut! Congrats!

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SHERI DILLARD is a children's author and preschool teacher/librarian. She lives in Atlanta, GA, with her husband Mark, three sons, and a 100-pound puppy named Captain, who is not so good at hiding. Cowhide-and-Seek is her first book.

FOR MORE INFORMATION about Sheri, visit her online here or follow her on social media:

Twitter: @sheridillard

Instagram: @sheridillard

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

BOOK GIVEAWAY!

Want a chance to win a copy of COWHIDE-AND-SEEK?! Comment on this post or share it on Twitter. One lucky winner will be selected Thursday, May 16th! US addresses only please.

What's up on deck? Tune in next week for an interview with author Gail C. Krause!

Interview with Debut Author and Illustrator and Husband and Wife Team Megan and Jorge Lacera

Happy Thursday Critters! Today, we have an interview with debut author and illustrator Megan and Jorge Lacera! A husband and wife team, their debut picture book, ZOMBIES DON’T EAT VEGGIES!, released this week in both English and Spanish! I’m thrilled to share their work with you today!

So without further ado…please welcome Megan and Jorge Lacera!

Where do you live?

Our home is Cypress, Texas, y’all—a suburb of Houston. 

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

Collaborating has always been our jam. We met while we were both working in the kids’ entertainment studio at American Greetings in Cleveland, Ohio. It didn’t take long for us to realize that we both love everything about stories—reading them, watching them, critiquing them, arguing over them! Creating stories together is magical.

Once we got married, we started thinking more about picture books. We loved that we could create something from beginning to end and execute the full vision that we collectively dreamed up. Super appealing.

After Jorge attended a week-long illustration seminar with faculty that included amazing creators like Adam Rex, James Gurney, and Rebecca Leveille Guay, we were both inspired and excited so we started to really go for it. Our first attempts didn’t exactly come together (re: they were a mess), but we kept evolving. When a little zombie kid character named Mo shambled his way into Megan’s brain, we knew we were onto something that we couldn’t let go.   

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

We put a ton of time and energy into learning and sharpening our craft. Years. We attended local and national SCBWI conferences. Read countless books, studied their structures and forms. Founded a critique group that was very focused on achieving publication-level work. Completed a seminar with Mira Reisberg’s Children’s Book Academy. Made dummies, critiqued the heck out of them, threw them out, started over.

After all that we felt confident in querying agents. We’re now represented by John Cusick at Folio Jr. (he’s awesome!). ZOMBIES wasn’t on submission all that long before the offer from Lee and Low came in. We absolutely love Lee and Low and have so much respect for their integrity and dedication to multicultural stories and creators. Editor Jessica Echeverria’s offer letter was unbelievable….she got EVERYTHING we were going for with ZOMBIES and more. Perhaps cliché, but collaborating with Jessica and Lee and Low feels meant to be.

From signing the deal to the book’s release, two years have passed. Much of that time has been on revising, revising, revising. Some days were challenging, but holding the final book in our hands is totally worth it!

Can you tell us about how you work together as a husband and wife team? 

Usually when we tell people that we work together they look totally mystified. “On purpose?!?” they ask.

Yep. We really do love working together. 

We work at home. After we get our son off to school, we talk over coffee and breakfast. Usually that includes some debate over the latest news stories or a movie we watched the night before. But there’s also a review of our goals for the day, ways to divide up the work, reminders of our big vision and where we’re headed. In addition to our books, we also consult and freelance for companies together—so there are those projects that require collaboration and sometimes quite a bit of negotiation on how it will all get done on time.

The day from there depends on where we are in the process. At the concept stage of a book, we’re together a lot….sketching out ideas, outlining a plot, building art reference, watching movie clips. Once we’re on the same page, we both go off separately; Megan to write the manuscript, Jorge to draw. Then we come back together to review and critique everything we’ve both done. 

People often want to know if we argue. Of course we do! Part of we’ve learned while collaborating at companies is how important healthy disagreement and creative conflict are to the process. Ideas and stories get better when you can push each other to go even further. Respectfully, while keeping your focus on the work. We welcome the “conflict” now because we know it means there’s room to grow…our standards are pretty high and holding each other accountable to those standards is key to our process.

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

Consistent exercise is really important to both of us. Jorge does Cross-fit and Megan does hot yoga. Sweat seems to clear space for creative work. We take walks most days and talk about where we’re at with a project or hammer out details of what’s working and what isn’t. 

It isn’t always easy to remember (okay, you might have to drag us kicking and screaming) but taking days off from working to go see a movie, eat Torchy’s Chips and Queso (it’s amazing and totally dangerous), or just do a whole lot of nothing can open up room for ideas and fresh energy. 

Getting new ideas isn’t really an issue; it’s zeroing in on the ones that speak to us most urgently, knocking them around enough to slough off the dust and craggly parts, and then carefully cultivating them into the special somethings that they become.

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

Jorge: I work digitally primarily. I recently made the switch to a Dell Canvas and I’m not sure how I survived before. It’s upped my game and I love it. 

Also, Cuban crackers. Nom, nom.

Megan: My Macbook Air. So not unique, but I love me some coffee while clicking and clacking away. 

Any authors and/or illustrators who inspire you?

Gosh, there are tons. To name just a few…

Adam Rex

Paulo Coelho

Yuyi Morales

Kate DiCamillo

Judy Blume

Peter Brown

Mac Barnett

William Joyce

Tony and Angela DiTerlizzi

Alice and Martin Provensen

Jon Klassen

Dream project to work on?

This is our dream. We loved creating ZOMBIES, we love our current projects, and we really can’t wait to get started on all the stories we have popcorning around in our heads. We’ve been planning for this time in our lives, working day and night to make it happen. So eternally grateful!

Tell us about your debut book.

Mo Romero is a zombie who loves nothing more than growing, cooking, and eating vegetables. Tomatoes? Tantalizing. Peppers? Pure perfection! The problem? Mo's parents insist that their niño eat only zombie cuisine, like arm-panadas and finger foods. They tell Mo over and over that zombies don't eat veggies. But Mo can't imagine a lifetime of just eating zombie food and giving up his veggies. As he questions his own zombie identity, Mo tries his best to convince his parents to give peas a chance.

The Spanish edition ¡Los Zombis No Comen Verduras! is also available and features details exclusive to that edition. Our story has a lot of puns and zombie jokes that wouldn’t work with a straight translation. Yanitzia Canetti adapted ZOMBIES and did a wonderful job!

We hope you’ll love our quirky story about family, self-discovery, and the power of acceptance!

 What’s up next for you?

We signed a two-book deal with Lee and Low Books (their first for picture books!) so we are already working on book #2 (monsters may or may not be involved). We also have several other projects in the works, including more picture books and illustrated middle grade series.

We’ve also created several animated series for kids. One is currently in development…stay tuned for more news on this in the coming months!

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

Megan: A hard choice of epic proportions, but I have to go with The Neverending Story. What I wouldn’t do for a luck dragon like Falcor!

Jorge: Impossible to pick just one. Okay, fine! Monster Squad.

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Huge thank you to Megan and Jorge for stopping by Critter Lit today! Congrats on your wonderful new book, we can’t wait to see all your upcoming projects!

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JORGE LACERA was born in Colombia, and grew up in Miami, Florida, drawing in sketchbooks, on napkins, on walls, and anywhere his parents would let him. After graduating with honors from Ringling College of Art and Design, Jorge worked as a visual development and concept artist for companies like American Greetings and Irrational Games. As a big fan of pop culture, comics, and zombie movies, Jorge rarely saw Latino kids as the heroes or leads. He is committed to changing that, especially now that he has a son. 

MEGAN LACERA grew up in the suburbs of Cleveland, Ohio, with a book always in her hands. She became a writer and creator of characters and worlds for entertainment companies like American Greetings, GoldieBlox, and Hasbro, and later formed her own creative company (Studio Lacera) with husband Jorge Lacera. After reading many stories to their son, Megan realized that very few books reflected a family like theirs--multicultural, bilingual, funny, and imperfect. She decided to change that by writing her own stories.

FOR MORE INFORMATION about Megan and Jorge and their work, visit them online here or follow them on social media:

Twitter: @Jlacera @MeganLacera

Instagram: @Jlacera

Facebook: @MeganAndJorgeLacera

LinkedIn: @Jlacera @MeganLacera

TO ORDER Megan and Jorge’s book, ring up your local bookstore or click here.

BOOK GIVEAWAY!

Want a chance to win a copy of ZOMBIES DON’T EAT VEGGIES?! Comment on this post or share it on Twitter. One lucky winner will be selected Thursday, April 11th! US addresses only please.

What's up on deck? Tune in next week for an interview with debut author Cathy Ballou Mealey!

Interview with Debut Author Cathy Breisacher

Happy Valentine’s Day Critters! Today we have an interview with debut author Cathy Breisacher, who will release TWO books this year! How awesome is that?! Her first, CAVEKID BIRTHDAY comes out next month with Charlesbridge, and her second CHIP AND CURLY: THE GREAT POTATO RACE, in May with Sleeping Bear Press. So exciting! I love the humor in Cathy’s books and I can’t wait to share her work and writing process with you all today.

So without further ado…please welcome Cathy Breisacher!

Where do you live?

Thank you so much for having me on your blog!

I live in Pennsylvania in a town called Hollidaysburg, which is located in the South Central part of the state. It is a small town nestled among the beautiful mountains. From my office where I do my writing, I often sit and stare out the windows at the mountains and admire the beauty of it all. 

When did you know you wanted to write picture books?

I have always been fascinated with stories, but I was especially drawn to the magic of picture books when I was in graduate school studying to become an elementary school counselor. At the campus library, there was a room for Education majors filled with picture books. It was wonderful. I would get caught up in the stories (ones that I remembered from my childhood and new ones that I wanted to use in the classroom). I started thinking about how fun it would be to write my own books someday. But, I didn’t actually pursue this idea until several years later. One day, I received a brochure in the mail about a Children’s Book Writing Conference in Chautauqua, New York put on by the Highlights Foundation. I was so intrigued. I had not written any stories up to that point, but I signed up for the weeklong workshop anyway. As a result of being around so many amazing children’s authors, I caught the kidlit bug. While at the workshop, Jane Yolen recommended joining SCBWI. It was an excellent piece of advice, and it was the first thing I did upon returning home. After that, I started attending SCBWI events and trying to learn as much as I could about the craft of writing children’s picture books. 

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

After that event in Chautauqua, I knew I had so much to learn. I was a high school guidance counselor, and my job took up a lot of my time. I usually only wrote during the summer months. Eventually I realized that I wanted to devote more time to writing and trying to get published, so I decided to make a career change. I earned my Master of Library Science degree and switched from the high school guidance job in my district to the elementary librarian job. This move gave me more time to focus on books and, subsequently, my writing.  I also started attending the NJ SCBWI annual conference. It was after my first conference that I landed an agent. A year later, CAVEKID BIRTHDAY sold to Charlesbridge, and a year after that, CHIP AND CURLY sold.  Both books are coming out this spring. I made a lot of mistakes along the way, and I continue to learn. One of the most important things I have learned is the value of making connections. The kid lit community is filled with amazing people who are all willing to help one another. Sharing what we know and being open to learning from others is extremely beneficial and valuable. I also learned that things don’t happen overnight. We all need large amounts of patience and tenacity.  

Can you share a bit about your process?

In my life, I try to be organized. In fact, I spend a lot of time organizing my work duties and things I need to do at home. But interestingly, when it comes to writing, I feel like I am scattered all over the place. I don’t have a normal process that is consistent from one story to the next, or from one day to the next. At any point in time on any given day, I’m jotting down story ideas or adding to a work in progress, or two works in progress, or even three. I may add lines to a couple of different stories, bouncing back and forth between them as inspiration strikes. I often work like this until one of my stories starts to gel and take off. I do this until I can churn out a first draft.  It can take me months to get a first draft on paper. I spend a lot of time letting ideas marinate in my mind to see where they can go before I write things down. But, once I have a first complete draft written, then I focus on that story and revise and revise and revise. I love the revision stage, focusing on each line, each word, the overall story arc, and the page turn effects. The revision part of writing is my favorite part. I feel alive in writing when I have a complete draft that I can mold and shape into something fun to read. 

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

Fortunately, the easiest thing for me when it comes to writing is thinking of new ideas. I have notebooks filled with ideas. Now, if I can just find the time to try my hand at each of these ideas to see which ones will take off.  Some of my favorite story ideas sadly don’t come together. After working at them for a while I’ll just save what I’ve written knowing that I can always come back to it if inspiration hits again. There have been stories that I have worked on for too long, knowing that they weren’t working, but hoping to make some magic happen with them. Eventually I will come to that realization and move on to one of my other ideas. But, thankfully I always have more ideas swimming around my brain. 

Anything you can’t live without while you write?

Oh, yes! Diet Pepsi and dark chocolate.  

Any authors and/or illustrators who inspire you?

I love fun, funny, and silly picture books, so the authors I look up to include Mac Barnett, Aaron Reynolds, Jon Klassen, Corey Rosen Schwartz, Kelly DiPucchio, Ame Dyckman, Tammi Sauer, Jory John, and Ryan Higgins. 

Dream project to work on?

I have really enjoyed the process of working on CAVEKID BIRTHDAY with the fabulous team at Charlesbridge and CHIP AND CURLY, THE GREAT POTATO RACE with the talented folks at Sleeping Bear Press. These two projects have seemed like dream projects to me. Everyone at both houses, along with both illustrators – Roland Garrigue and Joshua Henisz – has been incredible. I would enjoy working on a book with either of them again. In the future, I would also look forward to having one of the following folks illustrate a book of mine since I am a huge fan of their art:  Dan Santat, Pierre Collet–Derby, Troy Cummings, Eric Rohmann, Jennifer Harney, etc. But, honestly, there are so many amazing illustrators and I am awe-struck at how art designers know how to choose the perfect illustrator for a story. 

Tell us about your debut book.

CAVEKID BIRTHDAY, illustrated by Roland Garrigue and published by Charlesbridge will come out on March 5, 2019.  In the story, Caveboy and Cavegirl are best friends and do all kinds of cavekid activities together. They also share the same birthday! So, with their birthday approaching, each one decides to get something special for the other. They both have something valuable that they can take to Caveman’s Collectibles to trade, but when it’s time to exchange gifts, they are in for a big surprise. However, these Cavekids are resourceful, so they use their imagination and creativity to come up with a way to have a satisfying and very happy birthday. 

I really hope readers will see how much fun it can be to use their imagination and creativity when they play.  The inspiration for this story came about during Tara Lazar’s PiBoIdMo (now called STORYSTORM) in 2014 when I spotted a clipart image of a caveboy and a cavegirl. I was looking for a way to mash two ideas together in a picture book.  So, at one point I decided to mash the Cavekids with Christmas and I started writing. It didn’t take long before the idea of doing a twist on the Gift of the Magi popped into my head. I have always loved O. Henry’s story about the husband and wife who each take their most treasured possession and sell it to buy a perfect gift for the other one. So I decided to take that premise and have it take place during prehistoric time with Cavekids. After many rounds of revision, the Christmas theme got changed to a Birthday, and the rest of the story flowed from there. 

What’s up next for you?

I have many other stories written and a couple of them are out on submission right now. I’m currently working on two other stories that I’m really excited about. I plan to keep writing fun, silly picture books and I’ll keep my fingers crossed that each one finds a perfect home at a publishing house.

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

Oh my goodness…the 80s is my favorite decade for movies and music. It would be very difficult, if not impossible, for me to choose just one.  So, I’ll pick four (and even narrowing the list to four is a challenge):  Ferris Bueller's Day Off, Dirty Dancing, E.T., and Top Gun. I don’t often watch movies more than once, but I’ve watched each of these movies several times. I enjoy many types of movies - funny, romantic, sweet, and dramatic. Just like books, my favorite movies have characters that are memorable, and a story line that stays with me long after I’ve watched it. 

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Huge thank you to Cathy Breisacher for stopping by Critter Lit today! We can’t wait to see your wonderful books out in the world this year! Congrats!

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Cathy Breisacher is the author of the following spring releases: CAVEKID BIRTHDAY (Charlesbridge, - March 5, 2019) and CHIP AND CURLY - THE GREAT POTATO RACE (Sleeping Bear Press - May 15, 2019). She is also an elementary school librarian and former high school guidance counselor. Her passion is to write fun, silly, humorous picture books that will put a smile on kids’ faces. When she is not working or writing, she enjoys reading, traveling, and spending time with her family and friends. She loves all kinds of parks – national parks, theme parks, and Central Park – and is happy when she gets a chance to visit any of these. Cathy lives in central Pennsylvania with her husband.

FOR MORE INFORMATION about Cathy and her work visit her website: www.cathybreisacher.com or follow her on Twitter @CathyBreisacher.

TO PRE-ORDER Cathy’s books, ring up your local bookstore, or click here.

BOOK GIVEAWAY!

Want a chance to win a copy of CAVEKID BIRTHDAY?! Comment on this post or share it on Twitter. One lucky winner will be selected Thursday, February 21st! US addresses only please.

Interview with Debut Author Laura Roettiger

Happy Thursday Critters! Today we have a debut author interview with Laura Roettiger! Laura’s debut book, ALIANA REACHES FOR THE MOON, illustrated by Ariel Boroff, releases on February 19th with Eifrig Publishing. We are so thrilled to have her here today to talk about her new book.

So without further ado…

Please welcome Laura Roettiger!

Where do you live?

I live in the Rocky Mountains at 8,200 ft just west of Boulder, Colorado. For perspective, Boulder is 5,340 ft but only 10 miles away so the road to where I live is quite steep. My backyard is National Forest so it’s beautiful but so different from Chicago and the suburbs where I lived my whole life before moving here in 2016.

 When did you know you wanted to write picture books?

I was a reading specialist in Chicago and spent my days reading and writing with students. I often wrote stories for them when I couldn’t find books that I wanted to use. ALIANA REACHES FOR THE MOON was the first book I wrote with the intention of publishing. I know how rare that is; most people talk about the pile of unusable drafts they wrote before getting anything published.

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

In late 2016 and early 2017, I received some love in a few pitch parties that ultimately led to rejection. They liked the concept but not the actual story. This is because the manuscript WASN’T READY and it’s a very different book now than where it was at that time two years ago. I also submitted to a few publishing houses that accept un-agented work, including Eifrig Publishing. I am a writer, not an illustrator, and they only take on fully illustrated books. I had been approached by a local artist who wanted to collaborate and her sketches were the first ones submitted to Eifrig along with the original manuscript, a letter that explained who Aliana was, my plans for a series of STEAM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Art, Music) books, and how the vision of Eifrig Publishing aligned with my values. She had editing and revision recommendations and I continued to work on the story. Fast forward to July 2017 at Southampton Writers Conference and my manuscript went through a revision that I have described as ‘performing surgery on a loved one.’ I know other people use the phrase, ‘kill your darlings’ but I didn’t want to kill my book, I wanted to make it better. The original manuscript was trying to do too many things at the same time. The final book kept many of the ideas and cut out others. When I shared it with Penny at Eifrig, she agreed it was 100% improved. In October 2017, the illustrator backed out of the project due to time constraints of her other jobs. Through a mutual friend, Ariel Boroff and I met and began collaborating. She has done an amazing job of bringing the book to life while working as a costumer on a TV show - “Station 19” which is a “Gray’s Anatomy” spinoff about a fire house. Aliana’s father is a fireman so we both felt like that was a nice overlap.

Can you share a bit about your process?

I have a vivid imagination and often come up with ideas for stories when I am out in nature. I also like to do research and write by hand before I begin drafting a story. Sometimes the research doesn’t even end up in the manuscript, but it gives me additional background knowledge to draw on.

ALIANA REACHES FOR THE MOON was originally written by hand. This year I participated in StoryStorm (31 ideas in January) which was fun. I have many ideas that I thought of when I wasn’t home. I text myself so that I can add them to the brainstorm document when I get home. It’s amusing to see the ideas and I wonder if anyone ever saw the texts if they would think I was crazy! 

My last two books, one which is ready to query and one which is still in revisions, came from different places. The first is inspired by my beloved Goldendoodle puppy, Charlie. I shared it on the 12x12Forum, with my two in person critique groups more than once, and I think it’s ready to send out into the world. I love thinking about that first day, the germ of the idea, and how it’s transformed now that it is ready to share and hopefully be loved. The other one, which is still a WIP was inspired by a 12x12 webinar about how illustrations and text work together in different ways. I’m trying to grow as a writer and try new things. This one is definitely a departure but so far the feedback from critique partners is good so I am going to keep polishing. 

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

I don’t usually have trouble coming up with ideas. In the beginning, I had ideas that I couldn’t figure out how to turn into stories. I’m past that now thanks to several classes, conferences, and studying picture books with a writer’s eye.

Anything you can’t live without while you write?

I usually write in my dining room which has actually never been used for eating. It’s wide open with floor to ceiling windows, beautiful artwork, a desk and a large table for two different perspectives, furniture that belonged to my parents’ and grandparents, and interesting woodwork. I like to be comfortable so right now, since it’s winter I’m wearing a sweatshirt and soft flannel. Often I’m in my pajamas. I used to joke that if I was in my pajamas at noon that was the sign of a productive writing morning. 

Any authors and/or illustrators who inspire you?

There are so many and I hesitate to name names, but I will say I was fortunate to meet Amy Krouse Rosenthal, David Shannon, and Kevin Henkes while I was teaching and they were so generous with their young fans. That stays with me.

Dream project to work on?

I know this may sound funny, but Aliana is a dream project. She is based on my daughters and a few special students from Carlos Fuentes Charter School in Chicago. I have two more books written about Aliana and Gustavo, both which need further revision, and I can’t wait to see if the world loves her as much as I do.

Tell us about your debut book.

ALIANA REACHES FOR THE MOON is about a curious and creative girl who observes the bright light of the full moon. She uses information from books about the moon and experiments with light and reflection to create a surprise for her brother Gustavo. The book celebrates curiosity and demonstrates her patience and her parents’ patience. The messages are layered and not heavy-handed which is something I’m very happy about.

What’s up next for you?

I have two launch parties and a few events here in Colorado and ten days of mostly school visits in Chicago. I am very excited to be going back to two of the schools where my children were students. I am also working on lining up events at one or both of the places that wrote endorsements for the book: Adler Planetarium in Chicago, and the Challenger Center which has 40 education centers.  https://www.challenger.org

I am also hoping to find an agent this year and am a Gold member of 12x12. 

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

Dirty Dancing. 

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Huge thank you to Laura for stopping by Critter Lit today! We can wait to see your book in the world on February 19th! Congrats!

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Laura Roettiger is the author of ALIANA REACHES FOR THE MOON. She is a life-long Chicago resident who moved to the Rocky Mountains in 2016. Living adjacent to Roosevelt National Forest and just a few miles from the Continental Divide has provided her with inspiration for much of what she writes about. In Chicago, she worked as a reading specialist and elementary teacher and raised three children who are also the inspiration for her writing. Her superpower is encouraging curiosity in children and letting them know she believes in them. Since moving to Colorado, she has worked in Environmental Education and is now a literacy mentor at a STEM school. In 2018, she adopted a Goldendoodle puppy, Charlie, who is the inspiration for her latest polished manuscript. 

FOR MORE INFORMATION about Laura and her work visit her website: www.lauraroettigerbooks.com.

TO PRE-ORDER Laura’s debut book, ring up your local bookstore, or click here.

BOOK GIVEAWAY!

Want a chance to win a SIGNED copy of ALIANA REACHES FOR THE MOON?! Comment on this post or share it on Twitter. One lucky winner will be selected Thursday, February 14th! US addresses only please.

What's up on deck? Tune in next week for an interview with debut author Cathy Breisacher.

Interview with Debut Author Meera Sriram

Happy Thursday Critters! Today, we have a fabulous interview with author Meera Sriram, whose debut book, THE YELLOW SUITCASE, illustrated by Meera Sethi, will be released with Penny Candy Books on March 12th! Filled with brilliant patterns and colors, THE YELLOW SUITCASE, explores the complexities of living in a new country and dealing with loss. Both poignant and extremely relevant, this is a picture book everyone should read.

I’m honored to share this beautiful book with you today.

So without further ado, please welcome Meera Sriram!

Where do you live?

I live in Berkeley, California. I was born and raised in India, and moved to the U.S about two decades ago.

When did you know you wanted to write picture books?

When I had my first child, my daughter and I read tons of picture books together. We went to the library several times a week, carried books everywhere, and enjoyed story-times. This was all fascinating to me as I grew up without access to picture books. Eventually, I started reviewing and recommending diverse books. When I went back to work in the corporate world (as an electrical engineer), I realized I had left my heart behind in picture books.

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

I started out with no relevant academic or industry background in publishing. At first, I wanted to write for children in India, to sort of give back what I had missed as a child. I went on to co-author four books that were published in India. A few years ago, I decided I wanted to work towards addressing the void here, in the U.S – kids that looked and lived like my own were missing in stories. I was obsessed with learning the craft, knowing the process and resources, attending workshops and conferences, and of course writing and reading. But the most important contribution came from my critique groups, my diligent and talented writer friends! I’ve learned from them and leaned on them, and they’ve guided and encouraged me at every stage. I’m thankful for being part of a supportive cohort on this journey because the road to publication is far from easy, particularly when you think about revisions, harsh rejections, and long waits. Many submissions later, someone liked my work – believed in its importance and liked it enough to put it out in the world. And I’m very grateful for that.

Can you share a bit about your process?

Sure, I usually pick an idea and mull over it for a few weeks. When I sit to write, I make a mental checklist of story elements for my specific work – characters, conflict, plot, resolution, takeaway – to ensure that the story I want to tell allows for a structure with these elements. Then, I write in burst mode and revise until I lose count. In fact, I don’t really shelve it until it’s reasonably polished (my CPs must hate me for this :)

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

Honestly, I don’t struggle with ‘seed’ ideas. However, I’m often challenged to come up with a good plot. Then, I go back and read my favorite authors, to consciously study plots and story arcs. I also brainstorm with friends (and my own kids) to get my juices flowing. Sometimes, I distance myself for a few days before returning to tackle it.

Anything you can’t live without while you write?

Chai, and it’s no secret. Also, a dictionary, and windows that look out into the sky or patches of green.

Any authors who inspire you?

Oh, so many! If I were to name a few picture book writers, then I’d say Jacqueline Woodson, Allen Say, and Patricia Polacco.

Dream project to work on?

Maybe a middle-grade on social justice set in India.

Tell us about your debut book.

THE YELLOW SUITCASE is a story about a little girl who returns to India to attend her dear grandmother’s funeral. She is devastated and confused, until she finds comfort in a special gift. The narrative fleshes out the universal emotion of grief while telling the experience from an immigrant perspective. The inspiration for this story came from my own family’s experience when my children lost their first grandparent in India. I hope THE YELLOW SUITCASE helps open up conversations around death in classrooms and families. The book is illustrated by Meera Sethi who has brought in many wonderful colors and cultural details to the spreads.

What’s up next for you?

I’m excited about a couple of projects that are out (or about to go out) on submission. Currently, I’m trying to promote my debut alongside revisions of work-in-progress. In the long run, I aspire to write stories on experiences, themes, and people less visible in picture books.

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Thank you for stopping by Critter Lit today Meera! We are so excited to see THE YELLOW SUITCASE on bookshelves! Congrats!

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Meera Sriram grew up in India and moved to the U.S at the turn of the millennium. An electrical engineer in her past life, she now enjoys writing for children and advocating early and multicultural literacy. Meera has co-authored several books published in India. She believes in the transformative power of stories and writes on cross-cultural experiences that often take her back to her roots. Meera loves yoga and chai, and lives with her husband and two children in Berkeley, California, where she fantasizes about a world with no borders.

FOR MORE INFORMATION about Meera and her work visit her website: www.meerasriram.com or follow her on Twitter @Meeratsriram and Facebook.

TO PRE-ORDER Meera’s debut book, ring up your local bookstore, or visit IndiBound, Amazon, or Barnes & Noble.

BOOK GIVEAWAY!

Want a chance to win a copy of THE YELLOW SUITCASE?! Comment on this post or share it on Twitter. One lucky winner will be selected Thursday, January 31st! US addresses only please.

What's up on deck? Tune in next week for an interview with author Sue Fliess!

Interview with Debut Author Monique Fields

Happy Thursday Critters! I hope you are all enjoying the holiday season with family and friends. I’m very excited to share today’s interview with debut author Monique Fields!

In addition to writing picture books, Monique is an incredibly accomplished journalist, with essays appearing in Ebony magazine, NPR’s All Things Considered, and TheRoot.com. Her debut picture book, HONEYSMOKE: A STORY OF FINDING YOUR COLOR, illustrated by Yesenia Moises, will release on January 8, 2019. Monique’s debut is a wonderful book that encourages children to find and create their own identity in the world.

So without further ado, please welcome Monique Fields!

Where do you live?

I live in Tuscaloosa, Alabama, home of the University of Alabama. 

When did you know you wanted to write picture books?

I was a journalist for about 20 years, and I always have enjoyed writing. After I had my girls and read a trillion picture books over and over again at bedtime, I started to think I could write one, too.

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

Oh, I don’t know if this blog post is long enough. It’s been a long, winding road. I wrote a manuscript, but I didn’t really know how to write a children’s book. There was a learning curve as I figured out page turns and the other mechanics of writing for children. As a journalist, I didn’t know much about critique groups. I had to find one. When I couldn’t find one in my hometown, I started a digital group. After I polished off a few manuscripts with the help critiques from writers, agents, and editors at SCBWI events, I still had to find an agent. Thank goodness Kevin O’Connor took a chance on me. That’s the short version. Whew!

Can you share a bit about your process?

I mine my life and the lives of others for ideas. I can see a potential picture book in almost anything I witness during the course of the day. When something strikes me as interesting, I write it down in my electronic notebook. 

When it comes to writing, I get the beginning and the ending on the page first. That’s a throwback to my journalism days. The hardest part is in the middle.

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

Read. When I read, I am inspired. 

Anything you can’t live without while you write?

Chocolate and Twizzlers.

Any authors and/or illustrators who inspire you?

There are two author/illustrators whose work I truly adore: Yuyi Morales and Vashti Harrison. Both bring such dreamy intricacies to their work. Oh, how I wish I could draw and tell a beautiful story. 

Dream project to work on?

I’d love to work with Tracee Ellis Ross and Serena Williams on pretty much anything. 

Tell us about your debut book.

HONEYSMOKE is about a little girl who discovers her very own color. Simone, the main character, looks around her world to find her place in it. Her skin color is not like any of her friends at school or her parents. So, what is her color? She chooses one of her own, and creates a new word: Honeysmoke. It wrote the book so that all children can create their own identity. 

What inspired you to write your debut book?

The manuscript that became HONEYSMOKE started as a question from my three-year-old daughter: Who am I? She didn’t ask her question in such succinct terms, but that’s exactly what she wanted to know. I was surprised and a little disappointed when I couldn’t provide a satisfying answer. 

What is Honeysmoke?

Honeysmoke is my childhood nickname, and it is the color of my skin. When I was growing up, I decided that my mother, a light-skinned black woman, was the honey and that my father, a dark-skinned black man, was the smoke. I was the same as my parents but also different. 

How did your nickname become a children’s picture book?

As I considered how I could help my biracial daughter understand the complexities of race, I turned to my childhood nickname. She was the same as her father and me but also different. She had inherited qualities from us, and she would soon discover that she had some of her very own, that she was more than what she looked like on the outside. The little girl who inspired HONEYSMOKE is now a teenager, and she continues to discover her world and her place in it.

What’s up next for you?

Well, I hope to be a nonfiction picture book author soon. That’s all I can say about it for now. 

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

The answer to this question is going to date me. Purple Rain is my favorite 80s movie.

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Huge thank you to Monique for stopping by Critter Lit today! We can’t wait to see HONEYSMOKE out in the world!

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Monique Fields is an award-winning journalist. Her essays about race and identity have appeared on air, in print, and online, including NPR’s All Things Considered, Ebony magazine, and TheRoot.com. She is the founder and editor of Honeysmoke.com, a site for parents raising multiracial children. 

FOR MORE INFORMATION about Monique and her work visit her website: www.MoniqueFields.com or follow her on Twitter @honeysmokeblog

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

BOOK GIVEAWAY!

Want a chance to win a copy of HONESMOKE?! Comment on this post or share it on Twitter. One lucky winner will be selected Thursday, January 3rd! US addresses only please.

What's up on deck? Tune in next week for a Critter Lit Craft Post to kick off the new year!

Interview with Debut Author Aidan Cassie

Happy Thursday Critters! Today, I’m very excited to share with you the work of debut picture book author and illustrator Aidan Cassie! I received an F&G of Aidan’s debut book, STERLING, BEST DOG EVER, this past summer and immediately fell in love with little Sterling.

Sterling the dog has always wanted a home. But no home has ever wanted him. So when Sterling sees a sign on the side of the Butlery Cutlery Company advertising free "shipping to homes around the world," he is determined to become the most terrific fork ever! For what home doesn't need flatware?

Sterling is delivered on time and undamaged to the Gilbert family's front door. He is not, however, what they ordered. . . . But he may be exactly what they need. A humorous, heart-tugging picture book about finding a family, who wants you just as you are.

Sterling is quite lovable. Just look at the adorable cover below. Our family dog, Sally, was a rescue, so I immediately connected with Sterling’s hope of finding the perfect family and home. The illustrations are wonderful and the story is charming. I hope you enjoy Aidan’s new book as much as I do.

So without further ado, please welcome Aidan Cassie!

Where do you live?

I live on a west coast island, on the side of a small mountain, in Canada’s Salish Sea, just north of Seattle. It’s a quirky, rural pocket of co-op farmers, naturalists and artsy-folk, but most people here are urban-transplants, like myself. I love island life - our daughter takes a ferry to school while my husband and I work from our home studios (to the great delight of our big red dog, Sooka).

When did you know you wanted to make picture books?

While I was working on my degree in animation I started telling stories visually and fell in love with the process. After creating my wordless animated film, I thought I’d naturally write wordless picture books. Instead I discovered my voice, and the wonderful space between the text and illustrations.  I’m fascinated by the way readers/listeners/viewers construct what is happening with what is on the page, as well by the unsaid words and implied images. 

Can you share a bit about your process?

Assuming I’ve settled on a promising story idea nugget, I start by sketching characters to help me visualize the story. Then there’s the “walking and talking in the woods phase” as I envision it playing out like a little movie that I tell myself aloud… rewind, revise, and tell again. Sooka just chases sticks and is very non-judgmental. 

At the point my tale feels relatively solid I often enjoy a burst of drawing and writing. I pare things down to the important visual “shots” and make a series of thumbnail drawings, the same way I’d storyboard for animation. Later I might redraw with a bit more detail onto recipe cards, so I can reorder, add to, and edit the elements. I constantly flip between modifying drawings and editing words. Often the words are last to come.

 When I’m happy with the final flow I scan my sketches and create a digital dummy that has all the text in place for my crit group to read and edit. Later, many revisions later, if my agent likes it, I’ll make some final art samples for prospective publishers. I go back to the tiny 1’ drawings again, this time digitally. I experiment with the color narrative, palette and tonal balance for the whole book laid out on one page. I do each tiny spread’s colour very roughly so as to have a guide when doing final art. I use a Cintiq to create final art, usually with digital water color layers and textures that sit beneath my drawings. 

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

Of course ideas must be caught and gathered as they show up. Sometimes they come from mining strong childhood feelings of my own, but most often they come from the outside; like overheard conversations, observing something strange, a great line in a song, bizarre news stories or by mashing together unlikely things, like dachshunds and forks. And sometimes I just need to put myself somewhere new; we just came back from taking a year to live in Provence; every day in France was brimming with “new”!

Art supplies you can't live without?

It’s a short list; my 2B pencils, and a good eraser.

Maybe some run-of-the-mill photocopy paper too.  All my creations are born of a pencil line on cheap photocopy paper. It allows me feel free to let loose and make oodles of useless doodles. And useless is important. For me, being too precious or careful cramps my creativity and exploration. I like the erasable nature of pencils, so when it comes to watercolor painting (not a forgiving medium), I find I take more risks when I work digitally, because I know there is an “undo”.

Favorite illustrators?

Oh, yes, I love sharing my art crushes!! Birgitta Sif, Isabelle Arsenault, Emily Gravett, Kady MacDonald Denton and, and, and… Chris Riddell, Carter Goodrich, Pierre Pratt and Shaun Tan!

Dream project or book to work on?

I’m feeling pretty lucky that I’m working on a bunch of my own books right now, so things are pretty dreamy as it is. One day I’d love to work collaboratively with a funny author (like Emily Jenkins or Aaron Reynolds), preferably on a ridiculous story jam-cram-packed with dogs - you know, if we’re talking DREAM project.

Tell us about your debut book.

My debut book was inspired by a childhood dog I had, an odd little dachshund. Sterling, Best Dog Ever is about a dog who’s had a hard time finding a home, so he lives in a damp box. When he discovers a fork factory that ships to good homes he thinks he’s found his ticket to happiness. When it occurs to him that the new family, surprised by the little stow-away, may not need a fork, Sterling decides he could be anything if they would just keep him. He’s an expert at adapting, but it takes him a while to understand what this loving family really wants.

What’s up next for you?

I’ve just finished up the final cover art for my second book, Little Juniper Makes It Big, about a wee raccoon who feels too small for everything, and that will come out in 2019. While waiting for edits and feedback on that book I’ve been working on my third book (still at the untitled dummy-book stage) that will come out the following year, both with FSG Macmillan.

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

Wow, “80s movie” feels like a genre in itself – like I need an answer that features the Neutron Dance. But I have to go with animation! As a 9 year old I was completely spell bound by the The Secret of Nimh in 1982. 

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Aidan Cassie studied animation and earned a media arts degree at the Emily Carr University of Art and Design as well as Edinburgh College of Art. Sterling, Best Dog Ever is her first picture book.

FOR MORE INFORMATION about Aidan and her book, visit her website at www.aidancassie.com.

TO ORDER a copy of STERLING, BEST DOG EVER, ring up your local bookstore, or click here.

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