The DMS was lucky enough to interview Leslea Newman, author of the children's picture book The Boy Who Cried Fabulous. Recently, we reviewed this fun story, and it was great to share our thoughts about it and hear yours! We are excited to learn a little bit more about the story behind the story. So, without further ado... take it away, Leslea!
What inspired you to write The Boy Who Cried Fabulous?
I was inspired by a friend of mine named Roger, whose favorite word is "fabulous." One day he said to me that he had a friend who called him, "the boy who cried fabulous." Roger said to me, "Wouldn't that make a great title for a children's book?" I agreed, rolled up my sleeves, and got to work!
How long did it take you to write the book?
When I get an idea, I become completely obsessed and spend every waking hour thinking about it and developing it. I usually write a first draft pretty quickly and then spend days, weeks, and months rewriting. I usually write somewhere around 20 drafts until I feel I get a book right. Especially when I write in rhyming verse, there's so much to consider. Meaning, sound, rhythm, rhyme, musicality, etc. I want the book to sing!
What are some of your favorite books from childhood? Were there any specific authors who inspired you?
I loved anything and everything by Dr. Seuss. THE CAT IN THE HAT, andTHE CAT IN THE HAT COMES BACK were particular favorites. I also loved all books about animals including CURIOUS GEORGE and BABAR THE ELEPHANT. Later I read and adored BLACK BEAUTY and OLD YELLER. And LITTLE WOMEN, of course. I wanted to be Jo when I grew up.
How did you find your illustrator, Peter Ferguson?
My editor at Tricycle Press found Peter and I think he did an amazing job.
What is the most fabulous thing in your world?
My family! My fabulous spouse, and our fabulous cat, Princess Sheba Darling. They rock my world.
If you could be friends with any character from one of your stories, who would you choose?
That's a tough question. I hate to play favorites. Perhaps I would befriend Hachiko from my book, HACHIKO WAITS. Hachiko is an actual dog who lived in Japan from 1923 - 1935 and waited at Shibuya train station for 10 years, hoping for his master's return. I would like to keep him company so he wouldn't be so lonely (though many people actually did befriend him).
Where can we purchase a copy of The Boy Who Cried Fabulous?
Wherever fine books are sold.
Local Book Shops ☞ Amazon ☞ Barnes and Noble
Connect with this author:
Author Website ☞ Facebook ☞ Twitter
