This is the next BIG thing! We authors pass on our thoughts and news about what we’re up to. I thought, well this sounds interesting! So I’m another link in the blog chain, clunk, clunk.
I was asked to get involved by the Two Steves, the dynamic duo of children’s books who were in turn asked by Chris D’Lacey, author of the brilliant Last Dragon Chronicles.
So, as in the Ghost of Christmas Past, I’m rattling the chain!
What is the title of your next book?
Ruby’s Baby Brother.
What is a one-sentence synopsis of your book?
Has Ruby really had a baby brother or could he be a little monster from another world?
Where did the idea for the book come from?
From my publisher Barefoot, I must confess. I had written two Ruby books in the series (Ruby’s School Walk and Ruby’s Sleepover) when Tessa Strickland the co-founder of Barefoot books said, “Wouldn’t it be nice to have another book about Ruby having a baby brother?” and I agreed, absolutely!
What genre does your book fall under?
Picture book fun and fantasy.
What actors would you choose to play the part of your characters in a movie rendition?
Will Smith has to be Ruby’s dad and Whoopi Goldberg for mum but Ruby can be played by any feisty, sweet, adorable little girl looking to break into the business.
Will your book be self-published or represented by an agency?
I have an agent.
How long did it take you to write the first draft of the manuscript?
The first book was written in a couple of months, the second was over a few months so in all the series of three would be just under the year.
What other books would you compare this story to within your genre?
That’s a tough one. My story’s different but I would say my character is imaginative but very much home based like Charlie and Lola.
Who or what inspired you to write this book?
Tessa Strickland at Barefoot; the encouragement Tessa has given me to keep writing about Ruby has been wonderful.
What else about your book might pique the reader’s interest?
Miriam Lattimer’s amazing illustrations are full of fantastic, magical, weird creatures and are inspiring. There’s also bound to be lots of fun activities on the Barefoot website for kids to do to go along with the book . Another bonus is a link onto the following site where you’ll get lots more questions answered in interview on my new book hosted by Iain Broome, author of A is for Angelica.
So now I tag my next authors/illustrators who will continue blogging on the theme of THE NEXT BIG THING and pass them into your care!
Look out on the 19th December for:
The very talented Cathy Maclennan. Cathy’s stunning illustrations and wonderful lyrical texts have been noticed not only by publishers but Bunny Bunny Catkins was shortlisted for the V&A illustrator awards 2012; a rarity in children’s illustration. Pop over to her website and you’ll see what I’m talking about.
On the 26th we have the talented Karen King:
Karen King started writing for the well-known teenage magazine Jackie and has since produced over one hundred books including fiction and non-fiction. Her books range from bright, bold younger series to older, dark, exciting fiction such as her ebook due out 2013 titled, PERFECT SUMMER. Karen’s short stories have been featured on BBC Playdays.
Enjoy!
Thanks for taking the time to read about what we’re up to!