Welcome back to our series, 20 QUESTIONS!,
where we answer questions about writing, reading, and author life.
(Note that we enjoy the series so much we’ve reset for a second round of 20.)
This month’s question:
Name one perfect holiday gift for a writer, illustrator, or reader in your life.
“I think a perfect gift for readers is an author- signed copy of a book. For writers, give a membership to an organization like SCBWI or 12 x 12, or a group of family members or friends might chip in for a class or retreat at Highlights. A gift that authors, including me, enjoy throughout the year – and it doesn’t cost any money – is to review our books and make sure they’re part of your local library’s collection and at your local indie.”
– The Soaring ‘20s collective unconscious
Margaret Chiu Greanias
“For a child (or grown up) who loves books, I think a book-centered date would be amazing. Perhaps a trip to the bookstore (or library if budget is a concern) with the promise of getting one or more books, a treat of a snack or dessert, and a cozy time sharing the newly acquired book(s).”
—Margaret Chiu Greanias, author of HOW THIS BOOK GOT RED, illus. by Melissa Iwai (Sourcebooks, 2023)
Angela Burke Kunkel
“Practically speaking, one of the very best writing gifts I’ve ever received is a programmable coffee maker. Because I write in the very early mornings, it’s been a wonderful treat to come downstairs and have my morning coffee already brewed, ready and waiting!”
— Angela Burke Kunkel, author of MAKE WAY: THE STORY OF ROBERT McCLOSKEY, NANCY SCHÖN, AND SOME VERY FAMOUS DUCKLINGS, illus. by Claire Keane (Random House Studio, 2023)
Patricia Newman
“Authors and illustrators just starting out need the gift of investment. Many pre-published writers hold down jobs or raise children and squeeze in writing whenever possible. One fabulous gift for the creator in your life is the gift of a local writing/illustrating craft conference or webinar that focuses the mind, the energy, and invigorates them to persevere.” –Patricia Newman, EAVESDROPPING ON ELEPHANTS (Millbrook Press, paperback edition 2023)