Jane Sutton is the author of the new children's picture book Zayde Babysits before Passover. Her other books include Gracie Brings Back Bubbe's Smile.
Q: What inspired you to write Zayde Babysits before Passover?
A: My previous children's book, Gracie Brings Back Bubbe's Smile, had a more serious theme. It's about a grandmother mourning the death of her husband and eventually emerging from her grief as she teaches her granddaughter Yiddish words (at the granddaughter's suggestion).
With this new book, I was in the mood to write something lighter. I thought it would be fun to have Zayde do all kinds of silly things when he babysits for the first time.
Q: What do you think Kate Chappell’s illustrations add to the story?
A: Oh, they add so much! The spare text demands visual humor, and Kate more than met that demand. Her bright colors and the addition of a cat (not mentioned in the text) add to the appeal of the art.
Q: What do you think the book says about intergenerational relationships?
A: It depicts the elements of the relationships I cherished with my grandparents and now with my grandchildren: fun, laughter, warmth, joy, and love.
Q: Did you know how the story would end before you started writing it, or did you make many changes along the way?
A: I knew that after Zayde's many gaffes, he would be shown as competent leading the seder and that Ruthie would express enthusiasm for their day together.
There were lots and lots of changes to the text, including the ending. Just when I would think I was done, I'd find something else I wanted to change. That always happens when I write.
Q: What are you working on now?
A: I just finished a sequel to this book and am working on a book about a girl who wants to fly.
Q: Anything else we should know?
A: I highly recommend having grandchildren.
--Interview with Deborah Kalb
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