Q&A with Sarah Glenn Marsh

 

 

 

Sarah Glenn Marsh is the author of the new children's picture book Bigfoot's Big Heart. Her other books include the picture book The Mystery of the Love List. She lives in Richmond, Virginia.

 

Q: What inspired you to write Bigfoot’s Big Heart, and how did you choose the other characters to include? 

 

A: When I think of Valentine's Day, I often think of how it can represent so much more than just romantic love. There are so many different special relationships to celebrate!

 

And then I started thinking how lonely it would be to exist as a mythical creature or monster on Valentine's Day, not being celebrated in the same way as others simply due to being different or misunderstood--and thought, hey, I've got to bring them together somehow! Enter the scouts, and the story came together.

 

As for choosing the other cryptids, some of them are favorites of mine, and some were chosen because they represent cryptids from other mythologies around the world. This story is very much global!

 

Q: What do you think Ishaa Lobo’s illustrations add to the story?

 

A: Ishaa is brilliant. I think her art adds the necessary tenderness to show that these "monsters" or cryptid creatures are just as sweet and full of feelings as you or me!

 

Her art also adds whimsy and so much depth to the story. In fact, I'd say that if you looked at her images without the accompanying text, you'd still get a complete story being told here with a whole lot of emotion. 

 

Q: The Publishers Weekly review of the book called it a “spunky blend of silly and sweet that will serve as an introvert’s holiday treat.” What do you think of that description?

 

A: I'd say that's very kind of them, and also spot on! The shy and quiet among us deserve love, too! The story is definitely playful and lighthearted as well--you'll have to check it out and see how much fun the monsters and their friends end up having!

 

Q: What do you hope kids take away from the book?

 

A: We all feel different and misunderstood sometimes, so wouldn't it be so nice to be celebrated for the things that make us unique, too? I think that's one way of showing love. The book is a reminder to celebrate our friendships, and also our differences :)

 

Q: What are you working on now?

 

A: On the children's side, I am currently working on a beautiful nonfiction picture book about Simona Kossak, a scientist who lived among wild animals in the forest (and shared her home with many of them!). More to come about that soon.

 

On the adult side, I am currently doing edits on a romantasy that will become my adult fiction debut-- look for more on that as soon as I'm allowed to give it as well!

 

Q: Anything else we should know?

 

A: Bigfoot and all his friends wish you a safe, healthy, happy Valentine's Day! :)

 

--Interview with Deborah Kalb. Here's a previous Q&A with Sarah Glenn Marsh.