Q&A with Nancy Viau

  

 

 

Nancy Viau is the author of the new children's picture book Hanging Out with Gram. Her other books include Splish, Splash! First to Last. She is based in New Jersey. 

 

Q: What inspired you to write Hanging Out with Gram?

 

A: Tired of books where the grandmother appears feeble or suffering from memory loss or whatever ailment, and often pictured hunched over with a gray bun, in a rocking chair, knitting, or gardening, I wanted a story that shows a modern, active grandparent.

 

Today’s grandparents are involved in their grandkids’ lives, and that means keeping up with them and often teaching them a few new skills. Maybe it’s how to ride a bike, punt a football, strategize moves in a card game, or build a Lego spaceship worthy of a Star Wars enthusiast.

 

Aside from visiting with grandchildren, many grandparents are helping to raise them, even while holding down jobs of their own, and they are not slowing down one bit.

 

I was inspired to showcase this type of grandparent for this generation of readers and hopefully change the conversation of how grandparents are perceived.

 

Q: What do you think Amanda Lenz’s illustrations add to the story?

 

A: Amanda’s illustrations truly depict the excitement and frustration Mateo experiences. Aren’t his facial expressions the best?! From a wipeout on a bike to a snuggle with Gram, each one extends the text in a way that brings the story alive.

 

Q: How would you describe the relationship between Gram and Mateo?

 

A: Mateo clearly has different expectations when it comes to activities involving his sweet old Gram. But his love for her shows from the very first page where readers see the list he’s so carefully prepared—one that he believes is completely suitable.

 

Even though Gram offers up challenges for Mateo based on that list, readers see the respect they have for each other. From piggy back rides to snuggles at bedtime, their love is evident.

 

Q: The Kirkus Review of the book says, “Throughout, Mateo narrates with a bewildered understatement that nevertheless exudes tenderness and affection.” What do you think of that description?

 

A: I loved it! I was so happy they mentioned this because it made me realize they got it—they understood where Mateo was coming from!

 

For example, near the end when Mateo chooses a book to read together, the text says: Poor Gram can’t keep her eyes open. She needs her sleep. His first concern is for her when in reality it’s Mateo who is falling asleep.  

 

Q: What are you working on now?

 

A: I am hoping there will be a companion book to Hanging Out with Gram called Hanging Out with Gramp so that’s my focus right now. Send good vibes into the universe, please!

 

And as always, I’m busy booking school visits, book festivals, and signings. Getting to meet the kids who read my books is my VERY favorite thing.

 

Q: Anything else we should know?

 

A: It’s funny how art mimics life. Every artist knows that at one point or another, their work is based on a bit of real life. Characters are built on combinations of people; settings are created in the imagination but perhaps begin with a visit or a photograph, and the plot? Well, especially when it comes to writing for children, most kids’ shenanigans —grandkids or otherwise — are worthy of recording for posterity.

 

--Interview with Deborah Kalb. Here's a previous Q&A with Nancy Viau.