Interviews — PICTURE BOOK

Mike Boldt is a Canadian children’s author/illustrator. Whether he’s writing and/or illustrating, his books are so fun, it’s easy to be fan. His latest picture book Find Fergus, couldn’t be more adorable. You’ll love meeting this bear as he practices his skills at hide and seek. We featured Find Fergus in our January 2021 Picture Book Box (a few boxes are still left readmarmalade.com/collections/past-boxes). MARMALADE BOOKS: You live in Stony Plain, Alberta, just outside of Edmonton. Have you always lived there? You must like the cold and snow!

Ross Collins is from Glasgow, Scotland. He is the author and illustrator of our feature January 2020 picture book, What Does An Anteater Eat? I’ve been a fan of Ross’ for many years and was thrilled to use his book There’s a Bear On My Chair in our very first Marmalade Picture Book Box back in 2016. What I love most is his sense of humour both in writing and illustrating. When I did my research for this interview, I was pleased to discover Ross is just as funny as his books. If you have an opportunity, visit his website at rosscollins.net. MARMALADE BOOKS...

Acclaimed paper artist Elly MacKay is the author/illustrator of our feature book this month, Red Sky at Night. Her previous books have included If You Hold a Seed, Shadow Chasers and Waltz of the Snowflakes. Elly studied print making and illustration at art school. Her technique for creating her illustrations is quite detailed. First she inks her characters and the backgrounds on Yupo paper. Then cuts out the layers and sets them up in her miniature theatre. She lights the scenes and takes multiple photographs, altering the lenses, light and filters to create atmosphere. Elly takes her inspiration from Victoria...

Aura Parker is from Sydney, Australia, where she lives with her three children. Her background is in graphic design and illustration. Twig is her first book as both an author and illustrator. An absolutely charming book about a stick bug named Heidi’s first day at Bug School. Unfortunately she blends in so well that no one sees her. Many subjects are touched upon in this book including first day of school anxiety, making friends and overcoming shyness. The illustrations are so charming and detailed; children will find something new every time they open the book.    MARMALADE BOOKS (MB): When did you...