Who’s Reading What Wednesday and Interview with Jennifer Holm
I have two stories in the realm of “Who’s Reading What Wednesday”. This past weekend, I spend the afternoon/evening with my granddaughters. I listened to the parallel play involving two characters, “Grody and Cookie”. What I finally realized was that The one granddaughter was using her love of Grody’s Golden Rules by Nicole Rubel to drive the story line. It was delightful to witness.
Second story: The fifth grade girl devouring The Sisters Grimm series came to school Monday, proudly displaying the latest release, the seventh one. That girl has been on the count down for the book and patiently waiting for the public library call. Yesterday she arrived at school with a sad look, “I finished. There are no more.” You could just see how she was living the book.
Today’s interview is no other than Jennifer Holm, co-creator of Babymouse. She donated a signed copy of Babymouse: The Musical and a chance to have your name in story for the Bridget Zinn Auction.
How long have you been writing/ illustrating?
A: I’ve been writing since my early twenties (eek!). Will be 41 in June!
When you aren’t illustrating/writing, what might we find you doing?
A: Chasing my kids around; collapsed in exhaustion from chasing my kids around.
Who influenced you as a writer/illustrator?
A: Lloyd Alexander, Bill Watterson, Hal Foster.
What is your current project?
A: BABYMOUSE: CUPCAKE TYCOON!
What books are on your nightstand?
A: The Little Orphan Annie cartoon strips.
Where do you find inspiration?
A: History, my perceived childhood traumas.
What was your favorite book as a child? As a teen? As an adult? Any particular genre stand out?
A: Prince Valiant cartoon strips.
Favorite time of the day to work?
A: 10-3 (that’s when the kids are at school/daycare)
Chocolate: white, dark, or milk?
A: Neither; I’m allergic.
Coffee or tea or —?
A: Coffee!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
Dance: Funky chicken or the tango?
A: Waltz?
Thanks, Jennifer for sharing a bit about yourself. Did you know that besides Babymouse, Jennifer has had two Newbery Honor books? Our Only May Amelia (2000) and Penny From Heaven (2007). Both are terrific reads and in one of my favorite genres, historical and period fiction.
If you want a signed copy of Babymouse the Musical and a chance to have your name in a future book, bid on it here.
