Craig Smith - Author Interview: Children's Author

What kinds of fiction did you read as a child, and did you have some favourites?

Jack London, "Call of the Wild", Roald Dahl "Charlie and the Chocolate Factory" but when I was younger I was a Spike Milligan fan. "Bad Jelly the Witch" and "Dip the Puppy".

Would you say your childhood reading has had a distinct influence on how you write fiction now, and why?

I write Spike Milligan style with alot of sillyness. Spike also used alot of music in his story telling. So do I.

What did you do before you became a published children's author, and how did you come to write your first children's book and get it published?

I did Sales and Marketing for many years then decided to try music for a living. I started to write childrens stories in song because I loved it. This is how I became a childrens writer. Getting it published I had to "stalk" the editor and corner her for my first chance of getting published.

How would you describe your style of children's fiction or your approach to writing children's fiction?

Fun first, education second. I use alot of sillyness , music and also try to include humour for the parents. I think it's good to get everyone entertained and enjoying it... not just the kids !!

Who is another author whose children's fiction you admire and why?

Margaret Mahy. She is truely passionate about her work and this shines through every time she puts pen to paper.

How would you summarise one of your children's books in one paragraph?

A little un-PC, tongue twisting sillyness with a hint of cheekyness and a big dash of handsome.

How would you describe the appeal of this book to readers?

Hmmm, me telling a reader how it would appeal to them ??. Isn't this question directed at the wrong person ??

How would you summarise a chapter or section from this book in one paragraph?

He's not "normal" and that's fine, even cool. But then who's "normal ? ".

How would you describe the contribution this chapter or section makes to the book?

As above. Great way to finish.

How would you describe the integration of writing and illustrations in one of your illustrated children's books? If none of your children's books have been illustrated, how would you describe the integration of writing and illustrations in one of your favourite illustrated children's books by another author?

Katz Cowley did the illustrations for "Wonky Donkey" and we were able to work with each other on it. Katz did such a wonderful job on him there could've been no improvement in my opinion. She got him just cheeky enough and oh so good looking and cool !!

To what extent would you say fiction written primarily for child readers is different from fiction written primarily for teen readers?

I think the ideas are elaborated more in a teens book. They are explored more. In a childrens book the simple ideals and humour are kept as such. If there is a deeper meaning this would be left up to the readers imagination or for them to explore these ideas with their parents, guardians.

Author website: http://www.craigsmith.co.nz/