What originally made you want to become an author?
I’ve been writing journals and stories for as long as I can remember, and I got deeply into micro publishing in my teens and early twenties. I put out zines of my own and my friends’ writing and traded or sold copies to other zines-makers around the world. It gave me the bug in a big way to share my stories as widely as I could. I’m so fortunate now to work with an amazing publisher like Orca to do just that.
In your opinion, what makes a great story?
A great story keeps you guessing! It takes you along for the ride and gives you just enough detail to follow the trail and get swept up in the narrative.
Describe a typical work day in your life as an author. Do you have any unusual writing habits?
My work days are a little different lately because I’ve got a brand new baby at home. I carve out writing time while he’s napping or after he’s gone to bed. Since I have to be a bit sneaky, I’m not too precious with my writing habits. These days I write everything on my phone!
What messages or themes do you hope readers take away from your book?
More than anything, with this book I hope readers have fun diving into Lou and his family’s world. It’s a story about embracing change and differences and the power of a family’s bond, but it’s also deeply silly. I hope young readers see themselves in Lou and aren’t afraid to embrace their inner wolf!
What advice do you have for kids who are interested in writing?
My best advice would be to write and read as much as you can. Keep a journal, write poems, and share your favourite books with friends and family. Every little bit counts and is an important step along the way.