Barnaby Never Forgets
by Pierre Collet-Derby
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Dear Pierre, Thank you for accepting our invitation. How did you start writing books for children? I’ve always loved children’s books, especially picture books. I worked in the animation and video game industry for over a decade before realizing that I wasn’t truly fulfilled with my career. |
Photo credit: courtesy of the artist |
That’s when I decided to follow an old dream and started to make books. I made that decision less than 4 years ago and I couldn’t be happier. This is definitely a challenging career, but such an exciting one!
Tell us something more about your upcoming event: the new book ‘Barnaby Never Forgets’? How will it be different from your other 4 books?
‘Barnaby Never Forgets’ is very special to me as it is my first book as an author and illustrator. Being primarily an illustrator, it took me many revisions to figure out the story of this book and to develop my writing process. But it was a very constructive journey during which I learned a lot and gained more confidence in my writing. My editor and art director at Candlewick Press were extremely supportive and I couldn’t have hoped for a better team. ‘Barnaby Never Forgets’ will be out on July 11.
What’s the most impressive comment you have received about your published work so far?
I’d say the comments that touch me the most are the ones I get from our fantastic librarians and teachers. No later than yesterday I received a message from a first grade teacher who introduced to her class a book I illustrated, ‘The Boulder Brothers: Meet Mo and Jo’ written by Sarah Lynn. In her own words she said that putting the right book in a child’s hand can be life changing, and apparently one of her student experienced that with this particular book. This is the very reason why I’m making books. Nothing makes me happier as an author and illustrator than knowing one of your books made a difference in a child’s life.
Tell us something more about your upcoming event: the new book ‘Barnaby Never Forgets’? How will it be different from your other 4 books?
‘Barnaby Never Forgets’ is very special to me as it is my first book as an author and illustrator. Being primarily an illustrator, it took me many revisions to figure out the story of this book and to develop my writing process. But it was a very constructive journey during which I learned a lot and gained more confidence in my writing. My editor and art director at Candlewick Press were extremely supportive and I couldn’t have hoped for a better team. ‘Barnaby Never Forgets’ will be out on July 11.
What’s the most impressive comment you have received about your published work so far?
I’d say the comments that touch me the most are the ones I get from our fantastic librarians and teachers. No later than yesterday I received a message from a first grade teacher who introduced to her class a book I illustrated, ‘The Boulder Brothers: Meet Mo and Jo’ written by Sarah Lynn. In her own words she said that putting the right book in a child’s hand can be life changing, and apparently one of her student experienced that with this particular book. This is the very reason why I’m making books. Nothing makes me happier as an author and illustrator than knowing one of your books made a difference in a child’s life.
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What helps you get inspired and start working on a new series of illustrations?
I like to start my day with a walk in the nature, weather permitting. We have beautiful parks and conservation areas around here in Ontario and there is nothing better than a good hike to clear up your mind and recharge your batteries for the day. I listen to a lot of music and this is usually where I’ll find my inspiration when starting a new illustration, it kind of sets the mood if you will. I’m also inspired by many other artists, movies, writers, etc…
How does it feel to see your illustrations printed on products, like t-shirts, curtains, blankets, bags and more?
It’s always interesting to see how your art translates on different products and materials. I’ve opened my shop just a month ago and I’ll try to make more designs available soon.
Who is the illustrator who you consider a role model in your field?
It’s a tough one! There are so many talented and successful illustrators in children’s books that it’s hard to pick just one. I will go with my illustration ‘hero’, Jean-Jacques Sempé. He’s a French cartoonist best known for illustrating the stories of ‘Le Petit Nicolas’ (‘Little Nicholas’) created by René Goscinny. He also illustrated many New Yorker covers. I grew up reading the books of ‘Le Petit Nicolas’ and remember being captivated by Sempé’s wonderful drawings, so simple but full of life and humor.
What other passions light up your imagination and help you get energized for new projects?
I play guitar and ukulele, it helps me relax and I try to practice everyday. In my case, music always inspires creativity. I watch a lot of movies too and love a good story that will make you think and see the world a different way.
The Secret to Success can be found in your book Bossy Flossie. What’s your personal ‘secret to success’?
I think hard work is the key. No matter how talented you are, there is no substitute for hard work and that’s what will set you apart. Patience is also necessary, especially in publishing. Also, be nice, it’s a small world.
I like to start my day with a walk in the nature, weather permitting. We have beautiful parks and conservation areas around here in Ontario and there is nothing better than a good hike to clear up your mind and recharge your batteries for the day. I listen to a lot of music and this is usually where I’ll find my inspiration when starting a new illustration, it kind of sets the mood if you will. I’m also inspired by many other artists, movies, writers, etc…
How does it feel to see your illustrations printed on products, like t-shirts, curtains, blankets, bags and more?
It’s always interesting to see how your art translates on different products and materials. I’ve opened my shop just a month ago and I’ll try to make more designs available soon.
Who is the illustrator who you consider a role model in your field?
It’s a tough one! There are so many talented and successful illustrators in children’s books that it’s hard to pick just one. I will go with my illustration ‘hero’, Jean-Jacques Sempé. He’s a French cartoonist best known for illustrating the stories of ‘Le Petit Nicolas’ (‘Little Nicholas’) created by René Goscinny. He also illustrated many New Yorker covers. I grew up reading the books of ‘Le Petit Nicolas’ and remember being captivated by Sempé’s wonderful drawings, so simple but full of life and humor.
What other passions light up your imagination and help you get energized for new projects?
I play guitar and ukulele, it helps me relax and I try to practice everyday. In my case, music always inspires creativity. I watch a lot of movies too and love a good story that will make you think and see the world a different way.
The Secret to Success can be found in your book Bossy Flossie. What’s your personal ‘secret to success’?
I think hard work is the key. No matter how talented you are, there is no substitute for hard work and that’s what will set you apart. Patience is also necessary, especially in publishing. Also, be nice, it’s a small world.