The Writers’ Clubhouse: Q & A With Author Chrissie Perry
Welcome to the Writers’ Clubhouse. Join us behind the scenes in the book industry as we talk to prominent authors and illustrators about the process of creating great books for kids. Have you ever wanted to be writer? Get inspired here!
Chrissie Perry is the author of over forty books for children and young adults including 13 books in the popular Go Girl series and the award-winning Whisper.
Her work has been published in 12 countries. Blabbermouth is her brand new, hilarious series for kids 7+. She currently lives in Southbank, Melbourne.
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Q. You have written some amazing books for children, but what was your professional background before you became an author?
A. Thanks! I worked in the fashion industry and in retail clothing sales. Later, I trained as a teacher. I currently do Casual Relief Teaching as well as being an author.
Q. What is the best thing for you about being a published author?
A. I adore working with talented illustrators and editors, but kids’ feedback is the biggest joy in my career. One child told me ‘your books are the reason I read’. That comment had me floating on air.
Q. What are some of the key ingredients that make a great book for kids?
A. I write realistic fiction. For me, the vital ingredient is to understand the politics of the playground and beyond. Kids’ relationships are complex and they love to read work that reflects their lived experience.
Q. What advice would you give someone who is just starting out as a writer?
A. Ditch the didacticism. Often, people starting to write for kids think their work has to be a morality lesson. Nobody likes to be preached at, so if there are moralistic elements to your work, make sure they’re camouflaged in a great story.
Q. What is your next big creative project?
A. I’m working on drafts of Blabbermouth books 3 and 4. After that….um….we will see what plays on my mind so much that I simply have to write it.
Looking for some great writing to inspire your work? Visit Chrissie Perry’s website, or look for her many books in stores or at your local library.
Images courtesy of Chrissie Perry’s website: https://chrissieperry.com
