Interview with Debut Author Karen Greenwald

Happy Thursday Critters! Today we have an interview with a debut author who found her way to picture books through the law— which I love! It’s always fascinating to me to hear how debut authors and illustrators find their way to kidlit. I’m thrilled to share Karen’s story and road to publication with all of you today in celebration of her debut picture book, A VOTE FOR SUSANNA: THE FIRST WOMAN MAYOR, illustrated by Sian James, with Albert Whitman Books.

So without further ado, please welcome Karen Greenwald!

Where do you live?

Maryland.

When did you know you wanted to write picture books?

I decided in fourth grade that one day I would write a book. Then in law school I took “Literacy and the Law.” We delved into book banning history, civil rights issues, international law issues, et al—but we also had to tutor a child and create our own picture book. It was a gift to my artistic soul! The book I wrote and illustrated (inspired by Rawls’ Theory of Justice and John and Evelyn Dewey) actually won two brand strategy industry international awards and was spoken about by the Majority Leader of Congress to a room full of women leaders a few years ago.

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

I began seriously studying the art of children’s literature around five-ish years ago. One of the things that surprised me the most was how vast the difference is between the average person’s opinion/knowledge of picture book publishing versus the reality.

When I happened on a reference to Susanna Salter, I was hooked immediately. I knew I had to tell her story—especially since Salter’s history has been left to a 1954 article (and the blogs/articles, etc that use the same information). My journey from beginning to sale took about two a half years. After spending several hours over the phone with amazing librarians and genealogists at Kansas State University, I was deeply saddened to hear the next weekend that the library had burned to the ground. Thankfully, nobody was hurt. I did wonder, however, if it was a “sign”…like, don’t do this one!

For over a year and a half, in spite of various hurdles, I kept researching, trying to access anything that would give me that special something the story needed. But little could be found that fit picture book story requirements. As we know, an interesting moment or tale doesn’t necessarily fit this genre.

 Then I met (virtually) Susanna Salter’s great granddaughter. She and her brother shared with me beautiful letters, pictures, and the like. When I wrote the final draft two years in, I kept one of her letters open on my laptop desktop. I think I actually teared up when I typed the final words. (Ssh! Don’t tell anyone!)

Can you share a bit about your process?

I never knew this prior, but apparently I am a major researcher—I will not stop until I get that everything I need to make the story my own. I enjoy and am inspired by building relationships with a circle of people surrounding the topic I’m working on. This makes the experience meaningful for me. I write out the idea (I do this for art, too) in my head, moving parts around like magnetic poetry pieces. Once I feel like I have the concept, then I get typing.

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

Good question! I’ll let you know when I figure that one out!

Anything you can’t live without while you write?

A lack of distraction, my favorite thesaurus, and my dog napping (if you’ve ever been on the phone with me, you know why! Lol!)

Any authors and/or illustrators who inspire you?

Who doesn’t inspire me?! I cannot go in a book store for this very reason. I have to pull out every book I go near.

Dream project to work on?

I feel like I’m living my dream right now with my debut. What could be better than shining a light on an incredible woman who changed American politics and world history? To be the first and only person to write her story is an honor.

Tell us about your debut book.

As I mentioned, this is a story I am so proud to tell. Susanna Salter made international history in 1887-1888. I am still surprised to the reaction I get when discussing her with everyone from elected officials to educators. Even those who think they know the story mostly have their information from this 1954 article. Her impact has never truly been taught, discussed, or considered. In all of the news coverage that she received, nobody ever asked a very important question. I wanted to tell a deeper story. Thanks to the generosity of two of her great-grandchildren and my own research, I was able to discover her heart.

What’s up next for you?

Hmm…what is next?;)

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

This is actually the hardest one of your questions—lol! Can I give a few? Clearly, When Harry Met Sally, Ferris Bueller’s Day Off (the creativity of the post ending-ending), and St. Elmo’s Fire (because I’m a Georgetown alum—though, it was actually filmed at University of MD)…I really could go on… 

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Huge thank you to Suzanna for stopping by Critter Lit today!

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Karen M. Greenwald has a wide range of government, campaign, and branding experience. She’s won international awards for STEM creative, writing, video, rebranding, and self-promotion. Bylined credits include online, print magazines, and The Washington Post. Karen belongs to SCBWI, 12×12, and co-founded #SunWriteFun—a NF/Info Fic. summer contest that raises money for kidlit charities. Her picture book, A VOTE FOR SUSANNA, THE FIRST WOMAN MAYOR, debuts in October (Albert Whitman). It has held steady since February on two of Amazon’s Hot New Releases lists for kids. A Phi Beta Kappa, she earned undergraduate and JD degrees from Georgetown University. Before turning to branding, Karen worked as an attorney and focused on international environmental compliance issues.

FOR MORE INFO about Karen’s work, visit her online www.karenmgreenwald.com or follow her on social media @karenmgreenwald

BUY THIS BOOK To order a copy of Karen’s book, click here.

WIN A COPY! Want to win a copy of A VOTE FOR SUSANNA: THE FIRST WOMAN MAYOR?! Leave a COMMENT below or RETWEET this post on Twitter. One lucky winner will be announced on Thursday, October 7th! US addresses only please.

Interview with Author Candy Wellins | Part 2

Happy Thursday Critters! Today we are revisiting with one of our debut authors who we spoke with a little over a year ago. I’m thrilled to have this author back and chat about what’s new since her debut came out. We will have a few more interviews like this coming up— which I think is so important to feature. One of the trickiest things about being in this business is staying in it. Publishing a book is huge accomplishment, but then what? What comes next? How do authors and illustrators stay relevant with their work? How does one book become a career in publishing? These are some big questions. I’m hoping to explore these and more with our “part 2” interviews with previous debut authors. We hope you find it inspiring and helpful along your own publishing journey.

So without further ado, please welcome Candy Wellins back to Critter Lit!

It’s great to have you back!

Thank you for having me again. I’m always happy to be here.  

Tell us about your latest book.

The Stars Beckoned: Edward White’s Amazing Walk in Space is a biography of the first American to walk in space. It’s a little different from most picture book biographies though. This is a lyrical biography suitable for all ages, but super accessible for the youngest readers. A lot of readers have told me it reads like a lullaby.  

Interior art from THE STARS BECKONED: EDWARD WHITE’S AMAZING WALK IN SPACE by Candy Wellins, Illustrated by Courtney Dawson published by Philomel Books

Interior art from THE STARS BECKONED: EDWARD WHITE’S AMAZING WALK IN SPACE by Candy Wellins, Illustrated by Courtney Dawson published by Philomel Books

Interior art from THE STARS BECKONED: EDWARD WHITE’S AMAZING WALK IN SPACE by Candy Wellins, Illustrated by Courtney Dawson published by Philomel Books

Last we spoke you had released your debut book. Can you share some of your experiences since your first book came out? How are things different? How are they the same?

Well, we were in the grips of a pandemic then and we still are now! I wish I could say that I’ve visited a ton of schools, libraries and bookstores in the interim, but the truth is I’m still mostly operating in a virtual world. Still, it’s been fun seeing Saturdays Are for Stella travel the world. I’ve seen it read at the Met, in a bookshop in the Bahamas, and by young readers everywhere. That is definitely fun to see.   

What do you find inspiring right now?

I have a two-year-old and I’ve noticed that nursery rhymes and fairy tales have worked their way into my writing lately. Also, I am constantly inspired by nonfiction topics. Real people, things and events make such fascinating stories. I’m working on a few that are just begging to be told.    

What has surprised you the most about working as an author?

I still pinch myself that I am an author. Writing books has been a lifelong dream and now that I’m doing it, I sometimes have to remind myself that it’s all real.  

What is your favorite thing about being an author?

I love connecting with my readers. I’ve done a couple of school visits and it’s so great connecting with kids.  I love hearing their stories and sharing the things I do as a writer. They are often surprised to know they lead similar writing lives to published authors.  

What do you find difficult working as an author?

I am not a patient person and there is definitely a lot of waiting in this field. Waiting while on submission can take weeks, months or years. I used to constantly check my inbox, but I’ve learned to let it go and leave the stressing to my agent.  

Anything you are habitual about when it comes to creativity?

A lot of people work in coffee shops or with music playing in the background. I don’t know how they do it. I need a fairly quiet environment for writing. I also find a good long walk helps clear my head and sort out my thoughts before I try to put anything on paper. 

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

I would struggle to share a negative one!  I’m in two debut groups and the other members are always great about snapping photos of my book when they find it out in the wild.  

Recommended reading?

I finished George Saunders’ A Swim in a Pond in the Rain this summer. It’s his dissection of several Russian short stories and what makes them successful. I’d recommend the book to any writer because he offers so many great thoughts on storytelling.   

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

This goes way back, but as a kid, I was taught that you write a rough draft (double-spaced, of course). Then the teacher corrects it (in red pen), you rewrite it (single-spaced this time) and voila, you’re done. In reality, good writing requires many drafts and usually many edits (from yourself and others). It’s not quite the linear process it was presented as. I wished I learned earlier that you might not get it how you want on the first, second or even fiftieth try, but keep at it, because each draft is a new learning experience for you and your story.  

What’s up next for you?

I have two books under contract—a young graphic novel about the world’s largest species of burrowing clams and a picture book about growing up with divorced parents—something I have firsthand experience with.  

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

As Winston Churchill said best, “never, never, never give up.”  The road is long and hard, but the fight is worth it.  

And last, but not least, since I’ve already asked you your favorite 80s movie, and it’s usually my go to last question, this time we want to know who your favorite children's book character is?

Oh Ramona Quimby for sure. Quirky, stubborn and perfectly imperfect, she’s just so relatable. Or maybe that’s just me!  

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Huge thank you to Candy for stopping by Critter Lit again! We are thrilled to chat with you again and can’t wait to see all your wonderful upcoming books!

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CANDY WELLINS is a former elementary school teacher who now spends her days as a full-time mother and author. Her debut picture book, Saturdays Are for Stella, is set to publish in 2020 from Page Street Kids. Candy lives in Central Texas.

FOR MORE INFO about Candy or her books, visit her online: candywellins.com or follow her on social media: Twitter @candy_wellins and on Instagram @candywellins.

BUY THIS BOOK To order a copy of Candy’s new book, THE STARS BECKONED: EDWARD WHITE’S AMAZING WALK IN SPACE, click here.

WIN A COPY! Want to win a copy of THE STARS BECKONED: EDWARD WHITE’S AMAZING WALK IN SPACE?! Leave a COMMENT below or RETWEET this post on Twitter. One lucky winner will be announced on Thursday, September 2nd! US addresses only please.

Interview with Author Brooke Hartman

Happy Thursday Critters! Today we have an interview with author Brooke Hartman, whose second picture book just released this past October. I’m thrilled to have Brooke with us today and I can’t wait for you all to see her new incredibly beautiful book, Lotte’s Magical Paper Puppets: The Woman Behind the First Animated Feature Film, illustrated by Kathryn Carr, with Page Street Kids.

As an illustrator working in cut paper, I’m completely head over heels for this book— the art is absolutely stunning and the text is lovely and lyrical. It takes the idea of a picture book biography to a whole new level. When I first came across the book I had no idea that Brooke and I were repped by the same agent— a lovely coincidence! This book is magical— opening it you’ll feel as though you’ve been transported into Lotte’s world. It’s truly incredible.

So without further ado, please welcome Brooke Hartman!

Where do you live?

Chugiak, Alaska

How many years have you been in publishing?

My first book came out in 2019, but I’ve been writing as a “serious hobby” since 2002!

How did you first get published?

Like so many published books out there, my first picture book had a vastly different path to publication than my others. Though I’ve been working on various manuscripts for over a decade, including YA Fantasy, Science Fiction, and of course picture books, my first contract took me by surprise. I was introduced to Alaskan artist Evon Zerbetz (www.EvonZerbetz.com) who works in linocut art and has done a myriad of work throughout Alaska and elsewhere. I thought one of her public art installations reminded me a lot of a poem that I’d written as a “side of a side” project years before, so I showed the poem to her. She did some mock-up sketches of what the illustrations for this poem might look like, I revised some of the stanzas, we submitted them to a publisher… and the rest is history! Dream Flights on Arctic Nights was released in February 2019 through West Margin Press. I have to be careful telling this story to folks looking to have their picture book published, though, because as you probably know, it is NOT typical to collaborate with an illustrator beforehand. This publication was entirely serendipitous.

Do you write full-time?

I mom full time, lol, though I also have a part-time job as the community education director for a behavioral health treatment center (TMS Center of Alaska).

What inspires you to create picture books?

My kids, and my wacky imagination. I was that teenager who was petrified to try drugs because, if my brain could think of stuff this weird when I wasn’t high, I was afraid of what might happen if I ever was!

What surprised you the most working as an author?

Edits. SO. MANY. EDITS. To anyone who thinks that when you sign with an editor your manuscript is done, I have bad news for you. I’ve only worked with an editor on four picture book texts so far, but each of them had at least a dozen edits on top of the already two dozen you’ve done just to get to that point. And these are picture book texts! We’re talking less than 600 words, to begin with.

What is your favorite thing about being an author?

There’s something so completely satisfying about seeing your story rewritten and perfected and then paired with amazing illustrations until it becomes this beautiful thing you can’t even believe you helped create.

What do you find difficult working as an author?

Back to that whole “edits” thing. 90% of the time, I agree with what an editor is suggesting, or at least the idea they’re suggesting if not the actual execution of it. But occasionally there’s some dichotomy on what you envision vs. what the editor envisions, and that can be frustrating. The biggest advice I try to give myself when this happens is to take a “brush my teeth” moment on it. Let those comments simmer. If I still don’t agree with them a day or two later, formulate an alternate solution that might serve as a compromise, or compose a firm-but-kind way to explain why you think the text is stronger as is.

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

I honestly have never had to look for new ideas. I have so many picture book and novel ideas stacked up at any given moment, it’s all I can do to carve out enough time just to put a handful of them to paper. Are all of those ideas awesome and should be a book? Nope! But at least they’re ideas.

Anything you are habitual about when it comes to creativity?

I like alone time without kids to write, which usually means seeking out a coffee shop. Some people can tune out household hustle and bustle while they write, but I’m 100% the default parent for my kids, which makes it hard for me to just ignore everything going on around me. Plus, when I’m home, I’m constantly making someone a meal or snack. I swear my kids have tapeworms.

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

I owe every last bit of me being published to the KidLit community. I went to my first SCBWI Conference (SCBWI Western Washington) in 2011, which was mind-blowing. Then I attended a local conference in 2012, where I met my critique group that’s still going strong to this day. The group has lost a few due members to attrition over the years, but there are still five of us, and we meet every single Monday night!

Recommended reading?

Anything in the genre you’re trying to publish in. For me, that’s picture books and YA Fantasy. Just within those two genres, my recommendations could go for days. But here are just a few:

YA Fantasy: Anything by Maggie Stiefvater, Neal Shusterman, or Melissa Meyer.

Picture Books: Anything by Mo Willems, Josh Funk, or Ryan T. Higgins

What has been the highlight of your career thus far?

My first book received a starred review from Kirkus, which was a fun surprise. Since then, the highlights have been stumbling over random mentions of your book on sites or YouTube channels you never knew about. Or hearing from someone that their child / grandchild / friend’s child absolutely LOVES your book and has to have it read to them every single night. Those are the best.

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

Join SCBWI this very second.

Can you tell us about your newest book?

My newest book was another surprise for me. I was on Facebook one day and stumbled across a short but lovely YouTube biography on Lotte Reiniger, the woman who pioneered shadow puppet cinematography and created the first full length feature film over a decade before anyone even heard of Walt Disney. I was blown away. Her work was not only groundbreaking, it was gorgeous! I was absolutely smitten with this lesser-known hero of cinema history. My brain drummed up this stanza:

Long before a cartoon mouse,

Or Snow White swept a little house,

There was a girl named Charlotte.

Everyone called her Lotte.

Interior art from LOTTE’S MAGICAL PAPER PUPPETS: THE WOMAN BEHIND THE FIRST ANIMATED FEATURE FILM by Brooke Hartman, illustrated by Kathryn Carr, published by Page Street Kids

That stanza began my picture book biography on Lotte Reiniger. I was agentless at the time, but PitchWars came up, and I pitched it. Editor Courtney Burke of Page Street Kids liked my tweet. She’d been a film major in college, and even she had never heard of Lotte Reiniger! Courtney worked her magic on my text with many more revisions (all the edits!) and found the most perfect illustrator anyone could imagine for this project, Kathryn Carr, who works solely in shadow puppet illustration (www.GoCarrGo.com). The result was Lotte’s Magical Paper Puppets, the Woman Behind the First Animated Feature Film, which released this October from Page Street Kids.

Interior art from LOTTE’S MAGICAL PAPER PUPPETS: THE WOMAN BEHIND THE FIRST ANIMATED FEATURE FILM by Brooke Hartman, illustrated by Kathryn Carr, published by Page Street Kids

What’s up next for you?

I have more contracted projects with Page Street Kids, West Margin Press, and Innovation Press, all picture books. My amazing agent, Clelia Gore of Martin Literary Management, has a couple other picture books out on sub right now, with a few others we’re polishing in the meantime.

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

Read a TON in your genre. Get a critique group, find beta readers, and go to conferences—either in person or online! Soak up all that info and feedback, but then force yourself to actually write and submit.

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

Oh man, this is a tough one. But I think it’s a hard tie between Labyrinth and The Last Unicorn.

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Huge thank you to Brooke for stopping by Critter Lit today! Congrats on your wonderful books— we can’t wait to see what you come out with next!

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BROOKE HARTMAN is an Alaskan mom and award winning author of silly, serious, and sometimes strange stories for children and young adults. Forthcoming titles include Klyde the Kraken Wants a Friend (2020, Innovation Press), Pega Sisters! (2022, Page Street Kids), and The Littlest Airplane (2022, WestMargin Press). When she isn’t writing, you can find her fishing, flying, and having fun with her family, enjoying all the magic Alaska life has to offer.

FOR MORE INFORMATION about Brooke or her work, visit her online, or follow her on social media:

Twitter: @BrookesBooksAK

ORDER THIS BOOK To order a copy of LOTTE’S MAGICAL PAPER PUPPETS: THE WOMAN BEHIND THE FIRST ANIMATED FEATURE FILM, click here.

WIN A COPY! Want to win a copy of LOTTE’S MAGICAL PAPER PUPPETS: THE WOMAN BEHIND THE FIRST ANIMATED FEATURE FILM?! Leave a COMMENT below or RETWEET this post on Twitter. One lucky winner will be announced on Thursday, December 17th! US addresses only please.

Interview with Debut Author Saira Mir

Happy Thursday Critters! I hope this post finds you all healthy and well as we head into the holiday season! Today, I’m thrilled to have debut author and doctor, Saira Mir, stop by Critter Lit! Her debut book MUSLIM GIRLS RISE: INSPIRATIONAL CHAMPIONS OF OUR TIME, illustrated by Aaliya Jaleel, features a collection of 19 Muslim women who’ve made history. These stories are inspiring, incredible, and share some of the amazing contributions that Muslim women have made.

So without further ado, please welcome Saira Mir!

Where do you live?

I'm a Florida native transplanted in the DC Metro Area. I enjoy living a stone's throw away from museums and national landmarks.

When did you know you wanted to write books for children?

My older sister and I dreamt of writing a book together when we were college students. She would write, I would illustrate. Fast forward 10 years, I finally did it, but solo. My sister is still my biggest cheerleader and critique partner. 

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

I sought out Muslim female biographies to inspire and build my young daughters' self-confidence, but there was little available. I knew this had to change and began researching how to fill this gap.

Can you share a bit about your process?

My first step was brainstorming the book's structure and a list of my personal heroes. Once I had a preliminary draft, I queried agents and connected with Saba Sulaiman at Talcott Notch. I couldn’t wish for a more supportive agent. She helped push the manuscript further. In the process, I interviewed women I've looked up to my whole life! It was surreal! Once the manuscript was polished and on submission, we received offers within weeks. My daughter needed these women's stories and my experience with publication showed that the world did too. 

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

I tap into the things that bring me joy: science, South Asian culture, family, social issues, food, and art. I also think about how I want my children to grow. There's such a huge need for social justice kidlit. I'm thrilled to see more books focused on teaching future generations about self-love and equity.   

Anything you can’t live without while you write?

Snacks, Spotify, and solitude. With pandemic parenting, I don't think I'll have the luxury of solitude anytime soon. I write in fits and starts between tiny elbow pokes and baby spit-up. It's unglamorous, but my hope is that my kids are watching me push through it all and they’ll grow to do the same. 

Any authors and/or illustrators who inspire you?

I'm honored to be in a wonderful debut picture book group, The Soaring 20s. I’ve learned so much from this talented crew. We created a beautiful bookish gift guide for the holidays! You can find it on our website. I’m also a member of a published Muslim kidlit group founded by Saadia Faruqi, Jamilah Thompson-Bigelow, Reem Faruqi, and Aya Khalil. Its membership has grown in the past months, which is a heartening reflection of publishing. Both groups are special because they offer support and inspiration that extends beyond writing. 

Dream project to work on?

I’d love to couple my background in women’s health with kidlit. I’m an OBGYN by training and provide grade school sexual health education. I love challenging antiquated societal norms so that children can live healthy, happy, empowered lives.

Tell us about your debut book.

Muslim Girls Rise introduces young readers to the diverse and important contributions of modern-day Muslim women. Through short, information-rich biographies and vibrant illustrations, readers discover role models whose childhood events shaped who they are today. These are women readers may not have known, but whose stories they will never forget.

Interior art from MUSLIM GIRLS RISE: INSPIRATIONAL CHAMPIONS OF OUR TIME by Saira Mir, illustrated by Aaliya Jaleel

Interior art from MUSLIM GIRLS RISE: INSPIRATIONAL CHAMPIONS OF OUR TIME by Saira Mir, illustrated by Aaliya Jaleel

Interior art from MUSLIM GIRLS RISE: INSPIRATIONAL CHAMPIONS OF OUR TIME by Saira Mir, illustrated by Aaliya Jaleel

What’s up next for you?

I'm working on a book that has yet to be announced. It’s a story close to my heart, a celebration of family love that endures through loss. I hope it brings caregivers and children comfort during difficult times. 

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

Labyrinth. It’s 80’s perfection: fantasy, pop music, David Bowie, elaborate costumes, and goblins. I vividly remember watching it on videodisc at my friend’s sleepover. Now I’m going to jam to the soundtrack! Thanks for the nostalgia!

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Huge thank you to Saira for stopping by Critter Lit today! Congratulations on your fantastic book! We can’t wait to see what you do next!

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SAIRA MIR is a southern-born, Pakistani-American Muslim author and physician. She’s always on the hunt for sunny reading spots and former Top Chef contestant restaurants. She has four beautiful children and hopes to add a cat into the mix soon. Her picture book, MUSLIM GIRLS RISE, is an anthology of modern-day Muslim women's biographies.

FOR MORE INFORMATION about Saira or her work, visit her online, or follow her on social media:

Twitter, IG, FB: @sairamirbooks

ORDER THIS BOOK To order a copy of MUSLIM GIRLS RISE, click here.

WIN A COPY! Want to win a copy of MUSLIM GIRLS RISE?! Leave a COMMENT below or RETWEET this post on Twitter. One lucky winner will be announced on Wednesday, November 25th! US addresses only please.

Interview with Author Natascha Biebow

Happy Thursday Critters! Today we have an interview with Natascha Biebow, author of THE CRAYON MAN: THE TRUE STORY OF THE INVENTION OF CRAYOLA CRAYONS, illustrated by Steven Salerno, which just released last month. How cool does this book sound?! I’m so excited about this biography and I can’t wait to share it and Natascha’s work with all of you!

So without further ado…please welcome Natascha Biebow!

Where do you live?

I live in London, England.

How many years have you been in publishing?

I published my first book in 1995, and have worked as a children’s book editor since 1993.

How did you first get published?

I wrote my first book, Eleonora, a true story about how elephants mourn each other, as part of a children’s literature course at Smith College. It was kicking about for a couple of years before I decided to show it to the publisher of a small children’s picture book imprint, ABC. I was surprised and delighted when she said she’d like to publish it. The publishing industry was very different then – no social media (!) or easy way to get the word out – so, though it sold reasonably well, it is sadly now out of print.

Do you write full-time?

I wish! But I’m lucky that I have a day job that I love – I edit children’s books freelance for big and small publishers, and coach and mentor authors and illustrators to fine-tune their work pre-submission through my literacy consultancy Blue Elephant Storyshaping.

What inspires you to create picture books?

Picture books are my passion. I have an affinity with this young age group and love the synergy of words and pictures working together.

What surprised you the most working as an author?

The Crayon Man: The True Story of the Invention of Crayola Crayons is my first non-fiction picture book, so I was surprised by the amount of research and fact-checking that was involved, even in late stages of book production, and how much time this took. But I enjoyed doing it!

What is your favorite thing about being an author?

I love that you get a printed book at the end of your creative journey that you can share with young readers so that you can enthuse them with the story too. I love connecting with young readers (and grown-ups’ inner child).

What do you find difficult working as an author?

Possibly the most challenging aspect is that picture books evolve in the course of their editorial journey and sometimes you have to reconcile aspects of your original vision with the final version. This is part of the creative, collaborative approach, though, and leads to a better book ultimately.

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

I look for ideas all around me – from people, pets, the news and experiences . . . I try to learn at least one new fact a day. A walk is often great for getting unstuck and figuring out stuff too. 

Anything you are habitual about when it comes to creativity?

I don’t keep extensive notes – most of my work is done in my head! I love stationery though – so doodling with colored crayons is a great way to brainstorm ideas and tap into my inner child.

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

I have volunteered for over 20 years as the Regional Advisor for the SCBWI British Isles region. It has led to so many great opportunities to help learn new skills and make connections with people in the industry. I learned how to make a book trailer from fellow volunteers. I met my agent at the SCBWI conference in LA. I took a non-fiction writing course recommended by another writer that got me connected to the non-fiction Kid Lit community. And so much more! People are really very giving and supportive.

Recommended reading?

Yes, read read read every new picture book you can get your hands on. In terms of craft-based reading, I love Writing the Breakout Novel by Donald Maass– though it’s about novel-writing, all the elements and thinking logic are the same for picture books.

What is your favorite thing about being an author?

I love that you get a printed book at the end of your creative journey that you can share with young readers so that you can enthuse them with the story too. I love connecting with young readers (and grown-ups’ inner child).

What has been the highlight of your career thus far?

I was awarded a SCBWI Marketing Grant to fund a mini-book tour this May, and so I’m excited to be able to connect with young readers in person!

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

That I’d have to teach myself all about marketing and then implement it!

Can you tell us about your newest book?

The Crayon Man: The True Story of the Invention of Crayola Crayons is a non-fiction picture book biography: the true story of Edwin Binney, a man who had a knack for listening and making what people needed, whose love for color led to the invention of one of America’s most iconic toys – Crayola crayons. In a world where we take crayons for granted, what must it have been like to only have slate and chalk? It’s a fabulous journey of color and creativity, an inspiring story for the next generation of inventors who will be our future.

What’s up next for you?

Hopefully more non-fiction picture books. I am also writing a series of chapter books, which is a new venture for me.

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

I’ve realized that if you’re serious about writing for children and getting your work published, you need to make a real effort to carve out the focus and time and just do it. There is no greater writing tip than butt on seat.

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

E.T. heart-warming, flying bicycles, “E.T. phone home!” – all part of my childhood.

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Huge thanks to Natascha for stopping by Critter Lit today! We love your new book and can’t wait to see all your upcoming projects!

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NATASCHA BIEBOW’S favourite crayon color is periwinkle blue because it makes her heart sing. She loves to draw and make stuff, just like the inventor of the Crayola crayons. She lives in London, where she writes, edits, coaches and mentors children’s book authors and illustrators at Blue Elephant Storyshaping, and is the long-time Regional Advisor of SCBWI British Isles. In 2018, she was awarded an MBE for her services to children's writers and illustrators.

FOR MORE INFORMATION about Natascha and her work, visit her online here or follow her on social media:

Facebook

LinkedIn

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

BOOK GIVEAWAY!

Want a chance to win a copy of THE CRAYON MAN: THE TRUE STORY OF THE INVENTION OF CRAYOLA CRAYONS ?! Comment on this post or share it on Twitter. One lucky winner will be selected Thursday, 25th! US addresses only please.

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

Interview with Debut Author Hannah Holt

Happy Thursday Critters! This week we have an interview with debut author Hannah Holt! I’m so excited to be featuring a non-fiction picture book biography this week with Hannah’s debut book, THE DIAMOND AND THE BOY: THE CREATION OF DIAMONDS & THE LIFE OF H. TRACY HALL, illustrated by Jay Fleck. This is such an inventive picture book, told in two narratives, about Hannah’s grandfather, H. Tracy Hall, and the fascinating process of how diamonds are created.

So without further ado, please welcome Hannah Holt!

Where do you live?

I live in Oregon with my husband, four children, and a pet cat.

When did you know you wanted to write picture books?

One Christmas during graduate school, my husband and I didn't have money for presents, so I created handmade comic books. While I worked I wondered: what if I gave myself year to write a children's book?

After a year, I realized I would need more time and gave myself a decade to pursue publishing a children's book. Seven years into that decade, I sold my first picture book, The Diamond & The Boy, to Balzer+Bray.

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

I began writing ten years ago. During my first year, I received only form rejections and non-replies. By my second year, I had started receiving personal rejections and requests for more work. 

Then my twins were born. With four children ages five and under, I took a year break from writing, so I could attempt sleep every now and then.

After a year away, the writing itch returned stronger than ever, and I joined Julie Hedlund's 12x12 challenge. Two years after my writing reset, I signed with agent Danielle Smith. That didn't work out, so we parted ways.

After another year of querying, I signed with my second agent, Laura Biagi. Oh my heavens, it was such a difference working with a real advocate for my work! We sold two books together. Then she left agenting to pursue her own writing.

Publishing is full of twist and turns, but I try to focus on things I can control, like improving my craft.

Can you share a bit about your process?

I'm the type of writer that needs to revise many times before I have a submission ready piece. I wrote more than eighty drafts of The Diamond & the Boy before it sold. Similarly I wrote more than forty drafts of A Father's Love before it sold. Some authors might find perfection after five or so drafts. It just doesn't work that way for me.

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

I've never had a problem with ideas (knock on wood!). Ideas always seem to come in spades. It's the execution of those ideas that plagues me. It's not unusual for me to try a story from several different points of view or to write drafts in both verse and prose. I keep trying until I find a direction that resonates.

Anything you can’t live without while you write?

Snacks! When I get stuck, I take a snack break. Snacks make everything better.

Any authors and/or illustrators who inspire you?

There are so many legends I look up to, but here are two authors that might be new to your readers:

Jessie Oliveros has a beautiful picture book about sharing memories called The Remember Balloons. Dana Wulfekotte's limited palette illustrations are a perfect match for the text. I read a lot of picture books, and this one is something special.

Tina Cho recently released a picture book about a girl in South Korea trying to help her neighbors to the north called Rice From Heaven. The language is lyrical and moving.

Dream project to work on?

This isn't necessarily a dream project, but I hope to publish a middle grade novel one day. I've written two so far, but they were both so terrible I never sent them out. I would like to write a middle grade novel someday that doesn't stink.

Tell us about your debut book.

The Diamond & the Boy is a biography of my grandfather, inventor H. Tracy Hall. However, it's also the story of how graphite transforms into a diamond. This dual narrative story covers the two stories side-by-side. From the jacket flap:

"Before a diamond is a gem, it’s a common gray rock called graphite. Through an intense trial of heat and pressure, it changes into one of the most valuable stones in the world.

Before Tracy Hall was an inventor, he was a boy—born into poverty, bullied by peers, forced to work at an early age. However, through education and experimentation, he became one of the brightest innovators of the twentieth century, eventually building a revolutionary machine that makes diamonds.

From debut author Hannah Holt—the granddaughter of Tracy Hall—and illustrator Jay Fleck comes this fascinating in-depth portrait of both rock and man."

What’s up next for you?

My second book, A FATHER’S LOVE, comes out in 2019 just in time for Father’s Day. It’s a lyrical non-fiction picture book that celebrates different types of animal father’s from all around the world.

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

Better Off Dead

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Huge thank you to Hannah Holt for stopping by Critter Lit to chat today! We can’t wait to see all of your upcoming books!

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Hannah Holt is a children’s author with an engineering degree. Her books, The Diamond & The Boy (2018, Balzer+Bray) and A Father’s Love (2019, Philomel) weave together her love of language and science. She lives in Oregon with her husband, four children, and a very patient cat named Zephyr. She and her family enjoy reading, hiking, and eating chocolate chip cookies.

FOR MORE INFORMATION about Hannah and her work visit her website: www.hannahholt.com or follow her on Twitter @HannahWHolt

TO ORDER a copy of Hannah’s wonderful books, ring up your local bookstore, or click here.

BOOK GIVEAWAY!

Want a chance to win a SIGNED copy of THE DIAMOND AND THE BOY: THE CREATION OF DIAMONDS & THE LIFE OF H. TRACY HALL?! Comment on this post or share it on Twitter. One lucky winner will be selected Thursday, December 13th! US addresses only please.

What's up on deck? Tune in next week for a Critter Lit Interview with author/illustrator Corinna Luyken!