The Interview: Bookbag Talks To Victoria L Thompson
| The Interview: Bookbag talks to Victoria L Thompson
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| Summary: Victoria L Thompson's Midnight Mischief is a fun romp through space, to rescue Pluto from those pesky aliens. It's got strong rhymes throughout and engaging illustrations. We couldn't wait to interview Victoria! | |
| Date: 24 January 2011 | |
Interviewer: Keith Dudhnath
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Victoria L Thompson's Midnight Mischief is a fun romp through space, to rescue Pluto from those pesky aliens. It's got strong rhymes throughout and engaging illustrations. We couldn't wait to interview Victoria!
- Bookbag: When you close your eyes and imagine your readers, who do you see?
Victoria L Thompson: Children aged between 4 and 8, sitting having a bedtime story and a cuddle before curling up for a good night’s dreaming.
- BB: Midnight Mischief is a high-energy space-based adventure. What is it about outer space that's so exciting for kids and makes it such a great choice as a theme?
VT: I think most children (and quite a few adults!) like to look up at the sky, mostly at night time, and imagine what is out in the far reaches of space. It is the fascination of the unknown and the excitement that for every child, anything is possible. Who knows what their generation will discover?!
- BB: What was the production process like: did Ben and you work closely together at every step of the way, or did words and pictures come separately?
VT: I wrote a first draft and sent it to Ben, who primarily worked on getting the image of James right. Ben was very patient with my numerous story changes! We were very lucky to find that we both loved each other’s ideas!
- BB: Who or what inspired you to become an author?
VT: Anywhere where I get a small amount of peace and quiet - rather difficult with 4 sons!
- BB: Blimey! Yes, we can imagine! Is it hard for children's authors and illustrators to get the same recognition as adult writers?
VT: I can't speak for all authors, but personally the recognition I like to achieve is the excitement on a child's face when they really enjoy my story!
- BB: If you could click your fingers and change one thing about children's literature, what would it be?
VT: Nothing. I think there are an unbelievable number of exciting and inspiring authors and illustrators in children's literature.
- BB: Which three books should every child read?
VT: The Very Hungry Caterpillar, The Velveteen Rabbit and The BFG.
- BB: What are you reading at the moment and how are you finding it?
VT: Wolf Hall by Hilary Mantel. Absolutely brilliant.
- BB: What's next for Victoria L Thompson?
VT: Another picture book with Ben The Illustrator, and an adventure book aimed at older children. Both are works in progress!
- BB: Ooh, excellent. We can't wait to see them. Thanks for the interview, Victoria!
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