Debby Atwell is the illustrator of “Miss Moore Thought Otherwise.” The Following is a complete transcript of her interview with Cracking the Cover.
Have you always been an artist?
Yes I have. In fact, I recall being given only art supplies when I was a child. I guess my mother had a plan.
Why do you illustrate books?
I illustrate because it is a complicated, all-consuming task that requires a deep effort to actualize. For me thats fun.
Where do your ideas come from?
They come from the story when I am the artist.They come from my soul longing for a tiny bit of truth when I am the writer.
Take me through the process of illustrating a book.
I pretend I am a kid that is just learning how to read. Then I imagine a picture to help that kid understand what is going on in the story. I also try to put an emotional tone, to amuse.
What are the challenges of illustrating a picture book?
The illustration serves the text and not the other way around. The challenge is to start with a good story and not settle for less.
What are the highlights?
Fame, fortune, nice people like you saying its a good job..
How long did you work on “Miss Moore Thought Otherwise”?
nine months.
What makes “Miss Moore Thought Otherwise” unique?
No one has ever stopped to tell Ann Carroll Moore’s story before now. Boy, she deserves to be celebrated .
Did the book turn out the way you thought it would?
It turned out better because the art department was quite brilliant in the layout.
Looking back, how has your work evolved?
I am clearer about my strengths and also more comfortable with my tools.
What are you working on now?
Training a puppy, not a book, a life style choice.
Is there a book from your childhood that still resonates with you today?
I keep Arthur Rackham’s “Cinderella” next to my bed. Afterall, what I get to do for a living is like a Cinderella story to me.