The Next Big Thing Global Blog Tour

The Next Big Thing 
#I'veBeenTagged

The Next Big Thing is a global blog tour for authors and illustrators, started by social media wizards in the land down under.  I was tagged for the tour by Monica Wellington, a wonderful author and illustrator and the teacher of an amazing children’s book class at SVA. I’ll be passing the baton on to two other great illustrators to keep the tour going, so stay tuned . . .

Here's my interview:

What is the working title of your next book?

A Case for Loving; The Fight for Interracial Marriage

Who is publishing your book?

Arthur A. Levine Books / Scholastic

In what genre does your book fall?

Non-fiction picture book

What is the one-sentence synopsis of your book?

It is the true story of Mildred and Richard Loving;  An interracial couple who fought to have their marriage legally recognized in the United States in the 1960's

Where did the idea come from for the book?

I have been interested in their story, their struggle for many years.  I felt an immediate connection to the Lovings, being half of an interracial couple myself.  My husband, Sean Qualls, is illustrating the book with me

Who or what inspired you to write this book?

I had a desire to write something in the non-fiction genre, and the Loving's story was a perfect 'marriage' for me. Their story mirrored some of the personal struggles I've experienced (though not nearly as extreme!) being in an interracial couple

What actors would you choose to play the part of your characters in a movie rendition?

Kerry Washington and Leonardo Dicaprio (ha!) 

 

How long did it take you to write the first draft of the manuscript?

6 months to a year 

What other books would you compare this story to within your genre?

Everything by Shana Corey.  I love her non-fiction 'voice'–– she makes history come alive with both humor and heart

What else about the book might pique the reader's interest?

The illustrations will be vibrant and emotionally accessible.  They strive to show the LOVE between Mildred and Richard–- as well as their intense struggle