Susan Patron has been an active member of the SCBWI in Los Angeles, for years. Many of us stood on our feet and cheered last year when she won the Newbery for her book, The Higher Power of Lucky. Many more people jumped to her defense for the grief she received over that one word, scrotum. I was so impressed how she handled herself with grace and dignity during that firestorm. I am honored that Newbery Medal Winner, Susan Patron, agreed to answer a few questions.
When and why did you start writing for children?
I was working as a children's librarian for the Los Angeles Public Library, and had fallen in love with folklore and storytelling.
My first book, Burgoo Stew, published by Orchard Books in 1989, grew out of that folk tradition; it's a contemporary retelling of the old "Stone Soup" tale.
How has the Newbery Medal changed your life?
As I'm writing, critic/reviewer-crows land on my shoulders, dig their talons into my skin, and caw into my ears. They had always been there before, but I could dispatch them more easily until I was given the award.
What is the most valuable advice you can give to a newly published writer?
Keep going—quick, before you lose your balance. Write the next book. And don't take yourself too seriously.
What is one of your favorite children’s books that you'd like to recommend?
I knew you were going to ask that. How about if we go with one of my favorite authors? I love Nancy Farmer. Her writing is masterly.
What are you working on now?
The sequel to The Higher Power of Lucky.
What is your favorite dessert and why?
A scoop of frozen vanilla yogurt with fresh raspberries and a shaving of very good chocolate. If you want to make me faint with pleasure, blend some berries with sugar and eau de vie or cognac and pour it on top.
Photo credit: Rene Patron
bio:
Susan Patron is a slow reader who loves books. She was a librarian for 35 years at the Los Angeles Public Library, has taught courses in children's literature, reviewed children's books for various print media, published articles and given lectures on aspects of juvenile materials collection development, and served on many local, state, and national children's book award committees. She is married to a rare book restorer. Susan is also a children's book writer with four picture books, a chapter book called Maybe Yes, Maybe No, Maybe Maybe, and a novel, The Higher Power of Lucky, which was awarded the 2007 Newbery Medal.
Comments