What, Why, How: Deborah Diesen

What:

I write children’s books. Many of them are in rhyme, including the books in The Pout-Pout Fish series (illustrated by Dan Hanna), but I also write non-rhyming stories. My latest book is Catch a Kiss (illustrated by Kris Aro McLeod), which came out this spring.

Why:

I love the sounds that words make, and I also love the rhythms of rhyming stories. Writing for children gives me a chance to play with words, to experiment with rhythms, and to create fun, kid-friendly characters. It’s an enjoyable challenge.

How:

Every story is different. Some are inspired by a word or a phrase, and then almost spontaneously grow up around that. Others originate in an idea or a notion, and then have to be nudged (or shoved) into existence. My writing process alternates between bursts of forward motion (pushing myself to start or revise or finish something) and periods of dormancy (letting a manuscript sit for a day or a week or five years or so).

In between writing projects, I’m always sure I’ve used up all my ideas and will Never Write Again. Happily, one of the joys of being a writer is getting to know other writers, and my friends in the world of writing always encourage me when I lose steam. We all look out for each other. I’ve also met amazing kids, families, teachers, librarians, booksellers, and more, and they inspire me to explore where my writing might take me next.

Words may have gotten me into writing, but what keeps me there? The people. Books build community. I’m grateful to be a part of it.

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