I have known illustrator/author Mary Ann Fraser for many years. Talented, funny and smart, she is always a blast to hang around with. I am also awed by her huge body of work, over fifty children's books. It is my great pleasure to interview my buddy, Mary Ann Fraser.
When and why did you start writing/illustrating for children?
I first began writing and illustrating my own books in second grade at the encouragement of my teacher, Mrs. Floberg. It was her way of keeping me from talking to my classmates when I had finished my work early.
The muse didn’t reappear until eighth grade when my dad brought home a fancy new typewriter for my mom that I was dying to try. While none of these efforts produced published books, they did launch the passion I have for writing stories and making the pictures that help tell them.
What is the most valuable advice you can give to a newly published writer?
That second book can be very intimidating. You might ask was the first one a fluke? Do I have another good idea in me? My advice is to get writing right away on your next best idea and to set aside any self doubts.
What is one of your favorite children’s books that you'd like to recommend?
Where the Wild Things Are” really made me appreciate the structure of a well-crafted book. I think “No David” is also a terrific children’s book. What kid can’t relate to it? The humor is also right on the mark and I think we all can see ourselves in that little boy.
What are you working on now?
Currently I am illustrating the second book involving some talented critters in a petshop. I also have several other ideas in the incubator. Some will be rotten eggs, some will be ugly ducklings, and, hopefully, one or more will be swans.
What is your favorite dessert and why?
I love pavlova. With meringue, ice cream and berries it is sweet and tart, crunchy and chewy, cold and not – kind of like sinking your teeth into a great story!
Mary Ann Fraser has written and illustrated over fifty children’s books, including many non-fiction titles, the I. Q. series, and most recently MERMAID SISTER. She has taught classes on writing and illustrating children’s books and is a member of several children's literature organizations including SCBWI, California Readers Association, and the Children’s Literature Council.
Her books have received several awards including the International Reading Association Young Reader’s Choice, NCSS-CBC Notable Children’s Trade Books in the Field of Social Studies, American Bookseller Pick of the List, Outstanding Science Trade Book for 1995, School Library Journal Book of the Year, and BookLinks Book of the Year. To see a more comprehensive list of her books please visit www.maryannfraser.com <http://www.maryannfraser.com/> .
Mary Ann also has a decorative painting business which provides murals and many faux and decorative finishes. In her free time she enjoys travel, gardening, and playing the hammered dulcimer.
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