James Norbury is the author and illustrator of the new picture book The Dog Who Followed the Moon. His other books include Big Panda & Tiny Dragon. He lives in Wales.
Q: What inspired you to create The Dog Who Followed the Moon?
A: I wanted to write something with a hint of the magical about it; something a little bit like a fairy story and one day I had the idea of following something that cannot really be followed - the moon.
It might seem like a fool’s errand, but there is also something quite wonderful and beautiful in the naivety that one might set out upon such a journey.
Q: Did you focus on the text or the illustrations first, or did you work on them simultaneously?
A: I work on the text first. Once I get a basic idea of how I want the text to be I start drawing the picture. While I am drawing the picture I continue to consider the text in my head, tweaking and adjusting it throughout the days and weeks until it’s a good as I can make it.
Q: How would you describe the relationship between Amaya and the Wolf?
A: I think Amaya is innocent and bold so sees the Wolf as a reassuring grown up who will help her in her quest. The Wolf, for much of the book, does not really know what to make of Amaya, all he knows is that it feels right to help her. Normally she would be his prey, so these feelings are alien to him.
As the book progresses, both of their relationships with one another change as they discover more about themselves, the world and each other. But I don’t want to go into details as it might spoil things for potential readers.
Q: What do you hope readers take away from the story?
A: I would love readers to take on the concept of embracing their fate, no matter how things look. Try to see the way ahead of you as “the path” and that there is no other path, so accept it and walk confidently towards it.
I know what a difficult proposition this is, but if we can at least experiment with this way of thinking it can make a lot of difference to our lives. And I would not advocate never trying to find a better path in life, but sometimes it cannot be changed and this idea can really help in these situations.
Q: What are you working on now?
A: I am working on a new book called A Beautiful World featuring Big Panda and Tiny Dragon.
Q: Anything else we should know?
A: I really appreciate you inviting me to answer your questions and wish all your readers a wonderful day. :)
--Interview with Deborah Kalb
No comments:
Post a Comment