Q&A with Sujean Rim

 

Photo by Charlie Bianchini

 

 

Sujean Rim is the author and illustrator of the new children's picture book My Dog Smudge. Her other books include You Are Loved. She lives in New York. 

 

Q: What inspired you to create My Dog Smudge?

 

A: My real-life dog, Smudge, a mini labradoodle and super happy, friendly fur-ball.  The only thing that Smudge loves more than going for walks is to meet and say “hello” to EVERYbody and thing he sees.

 

In his eager, enthusiastic rush to greet someone, he would pull on his leash so hard that he would make himself huff, squeal, and snort loudly. It’s both embarrassing and adorable. And it happens all the time, so I just started to tell people “my dog thinks he’s part pig… this is how he says ‘Hi’…” 

 

I started to think about all the funny sounds, and expressions he makes and realized Smudge has a language all his own which gave me the idea for this story.

 

Q: Did you work on the text first or the illustrations first—or both simultaneously?

 

A: I started simultaneously with an outline of the story - both writing and sketching out key moments. Then I focused on character illustrations. Once I felt good about how the girl, Smudge, and all the animals would look, I continued to write out the text.

 

Q: How would you describe the relationship between Smudge and his little girl?

 

A: I’d like to think they have a special bond where they really know what the other is thinking and feeling  just by being together. Much like the connection I feel when I’m with my own two dogs, Smudge and his brother Nacho.

 

Q: The School Library Journal review of the book called it a “sweet, heartwarming tale that celebrates the universal language of friendship and understanding.” What do you think of that description?

 

A: I love that description. I really wanted to share the idea that we don’t always need words to be heard and understood. I believe everyone has a unique way of expressing themselves, so sometimes the best way to listen is by opening our hearts, not just our ears.

 

Q: What are you working on now?

 

A: I’m always playing around with new story ideas and am working on another book now that’s inspired by my love of golf.

 

In addition to making picture books, I am a freelance illustrator and tend to work on a few different projects at a time…currently I am designing some corporate greeting cards and painting a private commission. 

 

Q: Anything else we should know?

 

A: After 15 years, I’m finally updating my website…I’m excited to have a Book Section where I hope to  connect with readers more directly. It’s expected to launch mid-September. :)

 

--Interview with Deborah Kalb. Here's a previous Q&A with Sujean Rim.