Q&A with Arielle Schwartz

 

 

 

Arielle Schwartz is the author of the new children's picture book Iggy the Incredible Ice Cream. She lives in Massachusetts.

 

Q: What inspired you to write Iggy the Incredible Ice Cream, and how did you create your character Iggy?

 

A: I wrote this book for a high school assignment. The teacher wanted us to write children's books. I liked the idea of using alliteration for the book title, so that's how I came up with the name Iggy. 

 

Q: The book had a long and winding journey to publication--can you tell us about that?

 

A: I wrote the final draft of this book a few years ago, but many life events delayed me from looking into publication. I got married, moved, and the COVID pandemic occurred.

 

When I found out I was having a son, I was determined to publish this book so I could read it to him. I started researching publishers during maternity leave and eventually landed on Mindstir Media.

 

Q: What do you think Rio Teixeira’s illustrations add to the book?

 

A: Rio Teixeira's illustrations brought Iggy to life! He was able to create the entire world of Creamville in such a realistic and beautiful manner. He also did a fabulous job with Iggy's friends, Jimmy, and the puppy. His illustrations were gorgeous and made this book an artistic delight!

 

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

 

A: I hope children everywhere learn to love themselves after reading this book. There are a lot of societal pressures telling us to act a certain way to be accepted. The important lesson is to be yourself because people will love you for who you are. 

 

Q: What are you working on now?

 

A: I am working on getting this book into local stores since it is currently only available online. Other than that, I am taking a break to spend time with my 16-month-old son.

 

Q: Anything else we should know?

 

A: The book took a long time to finish and publish. However, I never gave up on writing it. If you really want to accomplish something, do not give up on it. 

 

--Interview with Deborah Kalb. I'm proud to say that Arielle Schwartz is my niece!