I’m loving having Aussie authors drop in to tell us all about their latest book. Today I’m especially pleased to welcome my friend, and wonderful children’s author Claire Saxby.Claire is here to tell us all about her beautiful new book, Sea Dog. Over to you, Claire.
1. Give us the details – title, publisher, illustrator, release date.
Seadog, illustrated by Tom Jellett, Random House. Release date was 1 May.
2. Why did you write the book?
I’ve always wanted to write a book about a dog, but even though we’ve had one for the past 6 years, it has taken until recently to find a way to do it. I wanted to capture the boundless joy that dogs seem to have for life. They don’t always do what we might like them to do, but there’s something about they way they are at the beach that is so free. I think children are the same, particularly at the beach. The beach is calming, energising, fun, messy, and hot/cold. And joyful.
3. How long from idea to publication?
This was a short one by picture book standards. I think it was less than two years from concept (in this form) to release. Although I confess to multiple previous attempts that fizzled before even becoming complete horrible first drafts.
4. What was the hardest thing about writing it?
Trusting myself. Letting go and just having fun with it. Getting close in, getting far enough away from the facts to find the fiction.
5. Coolest thing about your book?
To share the joy that a dog can bring. Tom’s illustrations are amazing. Seadog is so expressive.
6. Something you learnt through writing the book?
Not so much learnt but reinforced how much fun there is in playing with words.
7. What did you do celebrate the release?
I’ve had a ‘coastal launch’ for Seadog, but the official launch is yet to come. That’s 2 June at the 10th Williamstown Literary Festival. 2 pm. All welcome. 🙂
8. And how will you promote the book?
I’ve a few school visits planned, I’ll visit bookshops and libraries for story time. I’m also doing some promotion online via my blog.
9. What are you working on next?
I can’t quite decide. I have several projects I’d like to tackle, just can’t decide which one …
10. Where we can find out more about you and your book?
At my website www.clairesaxby.com, or my blog www.letshavewords.blogspot.com. Seadog can be seen in bookshops EVERYWHERE!
Thanks for dropping in, Claire. It’s always a pleasure to chat with you.