Bonnie Grubman is the author of the new children's picture book Harriet Hubbard and the Sold-Out Hanukkah. Her many other books include Little Miss Muffet Meets the Itsy-Bitsy Spider. She lives on Long Island, N.Y.
Q: What inspired you to write Harriet Hubbard and the Sold-Out Hanukkah?
A: I was getting ready for the holiday and went over to my China cabinet to rummage through the drawers for my Hanukkah paraphernalia.
I found a couple of paper plates, plenty of chocolate gelt with questionable expiration dates, enough appliqued heirloom towels to adorn my kitchen—and only half a box of candles. As for the decorations, the paper dreidels on the string had seen better days.
That’s when I realized it was time to get a jump start on my shopping. After all, last year the bakery had run out of jelly donuts by the time I got there.
And that’s when Harriet Hubbard was conceived—with a playful nod to Old Mother Hubbard, who went to the cupboard. Thanks to that familiar rhyme, the story was born.
Q: Can you say more about how you created Harriet?
A: I wanted Harriet to share my joy in hosting gatherings full of food, love, and celebration. I imagined her as a spirited, grandmotherly woman with plenty of flair, but without relying on stereotypes. (Hence, the skates)
Q: What do you think Noa Kelner’s illustrations add to the book?
A: Noa Kelner’s illustrations bring charm, personality, emotion, tension, humor, and warmth to the story through wonderfully expressive characters.
Harriet’s cat adds another fun layer of child appeal—especially when the tabby rides in the shopping cart. I also love how the artwork reveals something Harriet herself has yet to discover.
Her detailed illustrations are rendered in beautiful colors and are in perfect harmony with the rhyme. Thank you, Noa, for making the story come alive!
Q: What do you hope kids take away from the story?
A: I hope children learn that plans can fall apart and that feeling disappointed is perfectly okay. Above all, I want them to see that being together is what truly matters.
Q: What are you working on now?
A: Thanks for asking! I am working on a lyrical bedtime series that explores different habitats.
Q: Anything else we should know?
A: Like Harriet Hubbard, I used to roller-skate—though never through a market.
I can whistle (using two fingers) with the kind of volume to stop a basketball game.
I love children and children’s literature, and I believe picture books are among the most important books we write.
As a veteran nursery school educator, and picture book author, I am devoted to preserving the magic of childhood.
I love to laugh until my cheeks hurt.
--Interview with Deborah Kalb
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