How did you get started in children’s books?
I got my start in children’s books with an opportunity at a local publishing house. It was there I learned the process and came to realize that all the parts of animation I was interested in, were in picture books. So after a few years, I left on my own to pursue this as a career.
What (or who) inspires your writing or art?
I often say I was inspired by two Bills. Bill Peet and Bill Watterson. I grew up reading those two creator’s works more than any others. Now I’m inspired by many things throughout my day. A new book I’ve just read; a beautiful picture or illustration; something funny my kids (or others) say or do – it’s a very inspiring world around us.
What was your favourite book as a child? Why?
My favourite book as a child is The Hobbit. I loved the images that popped into my head and my imagination was totally unleashed to create in my mind the amazing adventures and characters that were described in that book.
How can teachers use your books in the classroom?
I hope teachers can use my books to ask questions of the children make them search for answers that are not defined in the books. Questions that allow the children to dream up answers that are neither right or wrong – but that get their minds going.
What are you looking forward to most during TD Canadian Children’s Book Week?
It’s all for the students and creating a love of reading. These children have such a love and hunger to be told or read stories – of any kind at all, that it’s contagious and you can’t help but want to create more. You want to be a part of seeing their imaginations unlocked, their minds opened to understanding, knowing what that could allow them to accomplish because of it.