Guess who’s gliding your way this October?
Illustrated by the amazing Troy Cummings (of NOTEBOOK OF DOOM fame), this story is a mish-mash of fairytales set in a winter wonderland. (No, not Boston.) It’s all quite fantastically fractured, without cumbersome crutches.
Troy’s got a groovy retro style that pops with personality. I asked him a few questions about bringing Red and her pals to life.
Troy, how were you introduced to LITTLE RED and why did you choose to work on it?
My editor at Random House said she had me in mind to illustrate a fractured fairytale called LITTLE RED GLIDING HOOD. The title alone made me smile. Then I read the manuscript and I shouted “YES! SIGN ME UP!” after the first few page turns.
The story was super-funny, and clever, and full of action. Drawing fairytale characters would be fun, but coming up with ice-skating wintery versions of those guys in frozen-fairytale-land? COME ON!
I really couldn’t wait to start—I filled my sketchbook with character ideas on the bus ride home.
These are the first designs I cooked up. Red looks very similar to how she is in the book—although her eyes were much huger in the first draft…but she’s got her little pointy ears on her hood, and oversized head.
The Big Bad Wolf is probably “badder” in the book. Although it looks like I had already planned on giving him that big awesome puffy shirt that accentuates his chest hair.
And I was also playing with giving each of the three pigs their own skates to match their jobs—with blades that resembled a trowel, a saw, or a scythe. But I couldn’t get it to work, so now they just have plain old skates.
And here are all my thumbnails for my book cover ideas. I try to do a million of ’em to see what kind of ideas I can shake out. They actually picked my secret favorite one for the real cover, which was great.
How did you decide upon the overall look for the book?
Well, it’s a winter story that takes place mostly outside—which would lend itself to white/gray/off-brown/… but it’s also a kooky fairy tale, so I wanted to sneak in as much color as I could. So I got to play and make crazy purple and yellow trees, and give the characters colorful scarves and mittens, etc.
I also tried to differentiate Little Red and the Big Bad Wolf in their designs… she’s short and blocky, he’s tall and lanky. She’s neat, he’s shaggy. She’s got big eyes, he’s got “bad guy” eyes, she’s fully dressed, he’s uh, not…etc. etc.
And the other thing I tried to do was avoid warm colors, except for Little Red’s actual riding hood…in most scenes, it’s the only red thing we see—it should be brighter and bolder than anything else, hopefully drawing attention to her even when she’s a tiny skater on the horizon.
(With one exception—she takes a break at Grandma’s house in the middle of the book, so I flooded that page with warm/bold colors: the fireplace, the floorboards, and even the walls have lots of warmer colors. Then she’s back outside at the pinky-purple little piggy’s house, out in the snow…)
How does working on an author’s story differ from working on your own?
When I write my own stories, I always start by waaaaay overcooking things. My manuscripts are too long and my words are redundant with my pictures, big-time. The writer-half of me panics that the illustrator-half is going to leave something out, so my copy ends up sounding way too descriptive, like this:
The fuzzy blue frog put on her yellow striped size 3 pajamas before hopping on her new two-wheeled bicycle, which had been colored 30% MAGENTA in Adobe Photoshop CS5.
And then when it’s time to illustrate, I realize that I could have just written:
The frog rode away.
and let the illustration do the rest of the work. I feel like I’m slooowly getting better at this, but I still haven’t totally figured it out.
I also think that when I’m illustrating my own story, I finish by drawing a picture that more or less lines up with what I was thinking when I wrote the story. THE END.
BUT!
When I illustrate someone else’s story, it becomes really fun to work with what they’ve written, and try to come up with images that “complete” the scenes/emotions/ideas they’re setting up. They author will have described characters, events, ideas and emotions, which I should support and illustrate. But the author will also _not_ describe certain events, actions, characters, etc. (on purpose!), letting me complete the scene.
For instance, here’s a line Tara Lazar (you!) had written for LITTLE RED GLIDING HOOD:
She swizzled down the river and saw a flurry of friends gathering beneath a banner.
This is all the copy needs to say—the author hasn’t spelled out exactly who has gathered beneath the banner. I get to do that! Then it’s fun to try to come up with something neat/funny that supports the text, but also has little surprises if you spend some time on it. (Who’s hanging out under the banner? Maybe Miss Muffet, bored [setting us up for the spider on page x/] Or Humpty Dumpty, walking with confidence (or nervously holding the handrail?)… Or bo-peep, distracted by something while her sheep are eyeing the exit. (etc., etc.)
I get to play around in this world the author has created, and maybe set up a few characters/events that will payoff later in the story, and (ideally) throw in little details to surprise the reader on subsequent readings.
I also think there’s this really cool thing that happens when an author and illustrator work together:
- The author comes up with a story, characters, and a world that I couldn’t have come up with on my own. She puts images in my head.
- I, in turn, draw these images and interpret her world/characters/architecture/bowls of porridge/etc., which are likely to be entirely different than what she might have envisioned. (At least, the details might be different—I should be hitting all the right notes to support the voice/tone of her manuscript.)
- And then: MAGIC! The difference between what the author had in mind vs. my interpretation ends up being this thing that’s, ideally, better than what either of us could have cooked up on our own… (I say “magic”, but that’s also a result of smart editing/art direction.)
This project was super, sooooper fun. I’m really happy with how it turned out, and it makes me want to work on more kooky fairytales. (Or more Tara Lazar stories!)
Thanks, Tara!
Thanks so much, Troy! You’ve done an incredible job, far better than anything I could have ever imagined! I’m one ecstatic author.
And now, the giveaway…
LITTLE RED GLIDING HOOD will be released on October 27 and you can pre-order now, but…you can get a full sneak peek by winning an F&G of the book (folded and gathered galley version)!
Just leave a comment below (one per person) and you will be entered into a random drawing. You have until Feb 28th to comment; I’ll pick a winner on March 1st!
GOOD LUCK!
And stay warm out there! Especially you Boston folk!
188 comments
Comments feed for this article
February 18, 2015 at 12:39 pm
Sophia Mallonée (@SophiaMallonee)
Gorgeous cover and illustrations! I can’t wait to meet Red!
February 18, 2015 at 12:39 pm
Corey Schwartz
Oh, how exciting! Pick me, pick me!
February 18, 2015 at 12:41 pm
Claire Lordon (@ClaireLordon)
Love the illustrations and such a great story idea. I can’t wait to see it!
February 18, 2015 at 12:42 pm
winemama
Would love to win a copy of this book, Tara!
@lindsayfouts
February 18, 2015 at 12:43 pm
Josh Funk
looks great!
February 18, 2015 at 12:43 pm
Janny J Johnson
I can’t wait to read this one! I have loved fractured fairy tales since I was a child! Great job, both of you!
February 18, 2015 at 12:43 pm
rgstones
Can’t wait to read this!
February 18, 2015 at 12:44 pm
Andria
Your words and Troy’s illustrations look like a perfect match!
February 18, 2015 at 12:45 pm
Natasha Wing
I love the retro style. The colors are always so intense and fun. Hope I can see the rest of the illustrations in your new book! Congratulations.
February 18, 2015 at 12:46 pm
kathydoherty1
THESE. CHARACTERS. ARE. SO. MUCH. FUN!!!
February 18, 2015 at 12:47 pm
Rebecca C
Loved the interview! And the book definitely looks ‘super, sooooper fun’!
February 18, 2015 at 12:48 pm
Genetta Adair
Great interview post! I love reading Troy’s vision of your text. Brilliant!
February 18, 2015 at 12:49 pm
katmaz2012
I can’t wait until Little Red Gliding Hood comes out!
February 18, 2015 at 12:50 pm
Cathy Ballou Mealey
Just love how his enthusiasm for the story bursts onto the page!
Can’t wait to read LITTLE RED GLIDING HOOD!
February 18, 2015 at 12:50 pm
Valarie giogas
You know as a fellow former figure skater that I cannot wait for this one!!
February 18, 2015 at 12:52 pm
nymediaworks
A sneak peek? I’m in!
February 18, 2015 at 12:52 pm
Sherri Jones Rivers
Oh, how fantastically frazzled and fun….fractured fairy tales. Can’t wait for that one. Love hearing the illustrator’s side; they are muy importante.
February 18, 2015 at 12:53 pm
Doris Fisher
I love all the colors!
February 18, 2015 at 12:54 pm
DanaA
Applause! I can’t wait to read your book, Tara! Great interview, Troy! I love the peek at all of the different covers, what a tough job to pick just one (but it looks like my favorite one was picked too!). Beautiful illustrations, fabulous colors.
February 18, 2015 at 12:55 pm
Dawn Young
Little Red Gliding Hood looks so clever and fun! I can not wait to read this!
February 18, 2015 at 12:55 pm
Sandy
I really liked this interview. I am a writer, but hope to one day become an illustrator also, and this interview was so informative on an illustrator’s process. Loved it! Plus, just the little sneak peak at the text of the book was very exciting also. Looks like another winner for Tara. Congrats!
February 18, 2015 at 12:56 pm
rita antoinette borg
Nice to get the point of view of the illustrator. I have your book The Monstore love it. Hope I can win this one.
February 18, 2015 at 1:00 pm
ajschildrensbooks
Love the illustrations! Can’t wait to read Little Red Gliding Hood with my kiddos!
February 18, 2015 at 1:01 pm
angiekarcher
What a great explosion of talent! Tara and Troy together. I can!t wait to read this one!
I really enjoyed hearing about how Troy’s process differs from illustrating his books vs. others books.
February 18, 2015 at 1:03 pm
Vicki Wilke
Love the idea of two creative people’s visions colliding into amother beautiful thing! What a honor for PB writers and illustrators. Looking forward to the book! Best to you both.
February 18, 2015 at 1:03 pm
Pia Garneau
Thanks for sharing your process! The illustrations look so fun and so does the story.
February 18, 2015 at 1:03 pm
Anna E. Jordan
What a great process info. Love the cover thumbnails! Thanks Troy and Tara! Tweeted it too!
February 18, 2015 at 1:04 pm
Buffy Silverman
This looks like a winner! Thanks for the sneak peek.
February 18, 2015 at 1:05 pm
DanaA
Applause! I can’t wait to read your book, Tara! Great interview, Troy! I love the peek at all of the different covers, what a tough job to pick just one (but it looks like my favorite one was picked too!). Beautiful illustrations, fabulous colors.
February 18, 2015 at 1:10 pm
kevanjatt
Wow! Wow! Wow! Thanks for this Tara and Troy! I always love seeing other illustrators’ processes. What a great idea for story, Tara, and wonderful illustrations. Bravo!
February 18, 2015 at 1:12 pm
katiemillsgiorgio
Can’t wait to read it!
February 18, 2015 at 1:14 pm
June Smalls
This looks incredible! I love seeing all the different cover ideas. Can’t wait to read the whole thing.
February 18, 2015 at 1:14 pm
Susie
What a great interview. I can’t wait to read the book.
February 18, 2015 at 1:14 pm
Diana Murray
Beautiful!! I love seeing all the cover options. This looks so fun!
February 18, 2015 at 1:16 pm
Maria Oka
I just showed the cover to my four year old and she said, “I want to get that book!!” Excellent post, this book looks fantastic.
February 18, 2015 at 1:18 pm
Michelle R. Eastman
Thanks for giving us a peek inside your process. It’s hard to tell which job was more fun! Congratulations!
February 18, 2015 at 1:20 pm
marcimcadam
Aw, so neat to hear Troy’s process on illustrating! And I love the yummy pastely colours of the double spread–I just want to eat up that Fairytale land. Can’t wait for your book, Tara 🙂
February 18, 2015 at 1:21 pm
Lori Dubbin
You both have just given us a master class on how the author writing less gives the illustrator more to work with and how it gives the story a powerful swirl of pop when your efforts come together!
February 18, 2015 at 1:25 pm
Carrie Tillotson
The illustrations look amazing! Can’t wait to see this book.
February 18, 2015 at 1:26 pm
Sue Heavenrich
Cool! I can’t wait to see this! and what a great post – an excellent reminder to cut the words and let the illustrator share the story.
February 18, 2015 at 1:34 pm
Gail
When two heads collide, like that of the author and the illustrator, it’s magic. There’s nothing better than being able to create magic for kids and I envy anyone who can do that!
February 18, 2015 at 1:34 pm
Matt Tesoriero
Love the title!
February 18, 2015 at 1:36 pm
Christine Ford
Love the unique idea of the story. It’s fast and funny! My students will love it at story time.
February 18, 2015 at 1:37 pm
Elizabeth McBride
What a great interview! I appreciate the examples given, since I ‘see’ the story in my head and want to ‘share’ that with an illustrator too! Love the idea for the story, Tara! Thanks for sharing this!
February 18, 2015 at 1:40 pm
Patricia Toht
Wonderful work! Thank you for sharing the details of the illustration journey for Little Red Gliding Hood — I especially love the cover thumbnails and the discussion about limiting warm colors. Looking forward to buying my own copy.
February 18, 2015 at 1:43 pm
Jacqueline
I’ve read many explanations of how and why a writer should leave room for the illustrator, and I’ve tried explaining this myself at many critiques. Next time, I’m going to point the writer to this interview. It’s the best explanation I’ve seen!
February 18, 2015 at 1:45 pm
Keila Dawson
Fractured fairy tale love! I can’t wait to see how the story unfolds and how the illustrator adds to it. As an author, it’s so much fun looking in from the perspective of an illustrator. Thanks for sharing.
February 18, 2015 at 1:48 pm
Cassandra Federman
I really enjoyed this post! Seeing the illustrator’s process and hearing about your collaboration was so helpful. Also 30% magenta in CS5…hilarious!
February 18, 2015 at 1:48 pm
joyacey
Great interview. So much fun to see inside the illustrator ‘s head and to see the previews.
February 18, 2015 at 1:50 pm
Bethany Roberts
Oooh, this book looks like so much fun, Tara and Troy! I would LOVE to win a full sneak peek!!
February 18, 2015 at 1:50 pm
Christine Ford
Love the unique story idea!
February 18, 2015 at 1:52 pm
Kate Hinke
Great interview–and peek into the mind of an illustrator! This helps me see my own fairytale retelling with fresh eyes–especially since its still waaay too long! 🙂
February 18, 2015 at 1:53 pm
kdveiten
This sounds like the most fun and adorable picture book ever! I can’t wait to see the finished product. Thanks for a great interview!
February 18, 2015 at 1:54 pm
Stephanie Geckle (@SPGeckle)
I love hearing from the illustrator’s view. And Troy Cummings is VERY FUNNY! Love his excessive descriptions! lol
February 18, 2015 at 1:55 pm
janelle
So adorable! !
February 18, 2015 at 1:56 pm
jsusina
This looks like such a FUN retelling!
February 18, 2015 at 1:56 pm
Melanie Ellsworth
Tara and Troy – thank you for this interview! Can’t wait to read the book. I appreciated the insights into how an illustrator’s mind works, particularly the differences between writing/illustrating your own work and illustrating another author’s work. Leaving room for the illustrator as I edit my text is always something I have to keep in mind!
February 18, 2015 at 2:01 pm
katrinamoorebooks
I love how this interview describes the magic/marriage between the text and illustrations. Can’t wait to read this 🙂
February 18, 2015 at 2:04 pm
Andrea Allen
Can’t wait to read this book – it looks like so much fun!
February 18, 2015 at 2:06 pm
Lynne Marie
So glad you are achieving all the success you deserve and that you have kept “skating!” XOXO
February 18, 2015 at 2:10 pm
Nancy Colle
Super cute! So much fun to see the process. -thanks!
February 18, 2015 at 2:11 pm
katrina thielman
This looks like a super fun book. Can’t wait for the release.
February 18, 2015 at 2:14 pm
ManjuBeth
Love the cover art! Troy’s illustrations really gave Tara’s words a twirl of fun.
February 18, 2015 at 2:15 pm
Nancy Ramsey
Great interview and I hope I win! The book looks fantastic! Loved hearing about the creative process- Will look forward to October! Thank you!
February 18, 2015 at 2:16 pm
Teresa Robeson
I love that two of the nicest people I know did a book together! What fun to read about Troy’s work process on this book.
February 18, 2015 at 2:18 pm
marlainagray
This looks like such a fun book, and I love the illustrations. Congrats to you both!
February 18, 2015 at 2:20 pm
Wendy Greenley
Big Bad isn’t the only one drooling with hunger! Love the hors d’oeuvre size introduction to your latest book, Tara and Troy.
February 18, 2015 at 2:30 pm
Ashley Bankhead
This was such a fun interview! I enjoyed hearing an illustrator’s perspective. This book looks like so much fun. I would like to win the giveaway. Thanks for sharing.
February 18, 2015 at 2:32 pm
Sylvia Liu
I met Troy at the NY SCBWI and he is delightful. I can’t wait to see this book – it looks great. Excellent interview.
February 18, 2015 at 2:35 pm
Heather Kinser
I LOVE this post! The book looks fun and clever with illustrations that hit the mark. It’s clear that Troy put a lot of joy into it. There’s so much value in hearing Troy’s perspective on the author-illustrator collaborative process. Tara and Troy, thank you for sharing this interview!
February 18, 2015 at 2:36 pm
Donna Gwinnell Lambo-Weidner
Love it ALL! The wee bit of text I read hooked me right away, really reeling me in. Can’t wait till October!
February 18, 2015 at 2:36 pm
Rosi Hollinbeck
Thanks for a wonderful interview. This book looks adorable. Can’t wait to see it.
February 18, 2015 at 2:40 pm
Kaye Baillie
Wow, love the illustrator perspective – most helpful. Gorgeous book, Tara and Troy. Can’t wait to get it.
February 18, 2015 at 2:44 pm
Nadine Gamble
Can’t wait to read it! Love fractured fairy tales!
February 18, 2015 at 2:49 pm
Maria
I think I know her sister, Little Sled Sliding Hood!
February 18, 2015 at 2:49 pm
Heather Pierce Stigall
Great post! I love to hear how an illustrator works since I’m not one myself (though I’d like to be!). I look forward to reading the book. Congratulations to you both!
February 18, 2015 at 3:08 pm
Patricia Conway
That’s very educational to a writer to hear comments by an illustrator. It seeks to remind us to not put everything in the story into words but leave something for the illustrator to come up with. The story and illustrations look wonderful!
February 18, 2015 at 3:13 pm
yangmommy
Thanks for sharing the POV from the illustrator’s side of the table! And I love, love the spread where the copy is interspersed along the “swizzle path!” So much for the eye to see and the ear to hear. Well done! 🙂
February 18, 2015 at 3:13 pm
Chana Stiefel
Fabulous interview. Love the cover! Can’t wait for pub date! Go RED!
February 18, 2015 at 3:19 pm
Michael Karg
Congrats, Tara & Troy! Looking forward to it.
February 18, 2015 at 3:23 pm
mariagianferrari
I love fractured fairy tales and this one looks like so much fun! What a great duo! Looking forward to reading this!
February 18, 2015 at 3:23 pm
Lisa Marie Berry
We love your ninjas book! 🙂
February 18, 2015 at 3:24 pm
nicolepopel
Wow, this book sounds like a winter winner! If I should win the book, please sign and write a short message to: The Little Free Library Walnut. I’ll read it multiple times and then pop it in my box of books in my front yard. Thanks!
February 18, 2015 at 3:32 pm
Genene Murphy
My kids will recognize Troy’s illustrations from the puzzles we keep scattered on our living room floor. I’m guessing, within a few seconds of holding this book in their hands, my kids will happily make a new connection.
We collect books (and library fines). I’d like to add Little Red Gliding Hood to our shelves … or, like many of our favorites, we might just give it a home between Star Wars sheets and under pink pillows.
February 18, 2015 at 3:43 pm
Tracy Molitors
Thanks, Troy! I always love hearing the illustrator’s point of view. Sounds like a fabulous story that you two put together!!
February 18, 2015 at 3:44 pm
LovableLobo
T + T = match made in fractured fairy tale heaven. Delightful post!
February 18, 2015 at 3:47 pm
SevenAcreSky
Can’t wait for this book to skate into reach.
February 18, 2015 at 3:49 pm
Shari Schwarz
Wow! So excited for your, Tara! I love the illustrations and seeing how Troy came up with his ideas! I cannot wait to read it! Do we really have to wait until October??
February 18, 2015 at 3:51 pm
Hilary Leung
Sweet Post! I actually had the pleasure of meeting Troy at NY15SCBWI and instantly became a fan. LOVE that both of you made a beautiful book together. Congrats! 🙂
February 18, 2015 at 3:55 pm
Deb Lund
I’m so excited about this book! Love the colors, the playful language. It’s got “Tara” all over it. So fun and natural.
February 18, 2015 at 4:00 pm
Robyn Campbell
Wonderful cover, Tara. Love! FUN interview. Thanks for sharing. 🙂
February 18, 2015 at 4:07 pm
Linda E.H.
Congrats, Tara. The book sounds lovely, and the illustrations are awesome. I love the two-page spread you showed. All that twirling and swirling and weaving and whirling looks great.
February 18, 2015 at 4:36 pm
Susanne Whitehouse
Great interview! His excitement for the book really comes through. Can’t wait to read it!
February 18, 2015 at 4:37 pm
Lori Alexander
This looks fantastic, Tara & Troy! Can’t wait to read it from cover to cover.
February 18, 2015 at 5:02 pm
Pam Miller
Loved skating down to the river & happily preordered this WINNER!
February 18, 2015 at 5:05 pm
Tara Lazar
Oh, thank you! So kind of you.
February 18, 2015 at 5:06 pm
Mary Worley
I like seeing all the cover sketches and hearing about the illustrator’s process. October seems so far away!
February 18, 2015 at 5:12 pm
socraticparent
Sounds like a very fun fractured fairy tale! Love Troy’s illustrations, too
February 18, 2015 at 5:17 pm
Carrie Charley Brown
Envision me like Horseshack on Welcome Back Cotter….Ooo! Ooo! Ooo! Raising hand and dying to be picked! 🙂 AMAZING illustrations, Troy! AWESOME FUN idea and story, Tara! What a team! I love how it all comes together in such a magical way!
February 18, 2015 at 5:17 pm
Jennifer Jensen (@jenjensen2)
Came for the awesome illustration, love the ideas and words. Maybe I’ll even win it for my granddaughter!
February 18, 2015 at 5:20 pm
kristivaliant
Oh Tara, you’re so blessed to get paired up with Troy. His work is amazing, and he’s such a fun, smart, and friendly guy. This book looks totally fun. Can’t wait to see it in person.
February 18, 2015 at 5:25 pm
Jabeen
I cant wait to read this book, it looks like such a fun read. I love the illustrations, great job!
February 18, 2015 at 5:31 pm
Patricia A Miller
This looks like a fun PB. Great job with what I’ve seen so far. Would love to win the F&G. It was also an interesting look into the author/illustrator relationship.
February 18, 2015 at 5:33 pm
Heather S
Oh my goodness this is the CUTEST. BOOK. EVER.
Crossing my fingers and toes I win this to read with my kiddos! 🙂
February 18, 2015 at 5:39 pm
Rebecca Gomez
That cover is so colorful and fun and adorable!
February 18, 2015 at 5:41 pm
Margaret Boling Mullin
Oohh! Oohh!! I’m the kid in the front row who’s dancing on my knees because I’m so exited. Please, random generator, pick me!!! (Wink, wink.)
February 18, 2015 at 5:52 pm
Ramona
I love hearing about the illustrators side of the story and how they interpret the author’s words! I also love fractured fairytales! Can’t wait to read it!
February 18, 2015 at 6:10 pm
Debra Daugherty
Troy’s illustrations are amazing. Such wonderful collaboration!
February 18, 2015 at 6:18 pm
laura516
I am happily awaiting this release! Congrats!
February 18, 2015 at 6:19 pm
Carleen M. Tjader
This looks like a delightful book–pictures and text!
The illustration process is fascinating. Thank you.
February 18, 2015 at 6:42 pm
Michelle
So cute. Count me in!
February 18, 2015 at 6:44 pm
Noel Csermak
I love that we get to sneak a peek at your playful prose and silly sentences. And it is so good to confirm that illustrators put as much thought, time and effort into their depictions of the manuscript as authors put into creating them. Looks like a very fun book to pull off the shelf. Congratulations!
February 18, 2015 at 6:48 pm
Brenda Huante
What a fun book! I can’t wait to read it. And the illustrations are simply gorgeous! Congratulations to you both.
February 18, 2015 at 7:05 pm
Andrea Mack
This looks like a fun book! Love the story of how the illustrations developed…they are fantastic! This information is so great to share with students for book talks.
February 18, 2015 at 7:19 pm
Sandi Lawson
I loved reading this post and I would LOVE to win a copy of the book!
February 18, 2015 at 7:20 pm
Dorothy Wiese
I can’t wait to read and see this pb. It sounds great!
February 18, 2015 at 7:23 pm
lindamartinandersen
Super team work. This is going to be a fun book! Congrats to you both!
February 18, 2015 at 7:35 pm
jennifer mook-sang
what a terrific peek into the workings of the illustrator brain. thank you
February 18, 2015 at 7:36 pm
Elizabeth Davis
Hearing the illustrator’s journey, helps me create a manuscript that will allow both me as the author and the illustrator express ourselves and work as a team.
February 18, 2015 at 7:44 pm
Linda Elman
Ever since Bullwinkle’s Boris and Natasha, I have loved fractured fairy tales. Congratulations to team Tara Troy on this collaboration!
February 18, 2015 at 8:26 pm
Mary McClellan
I’m anxious to see your book. I’m working on a fairy tale right now and, as I write it, think about what the illustrator might do. Sounds as if yours is a fun one!
February 18, 2015 at 8:50 pm
Freckled Daisy Creations
I love seeing and hearing the illustration process! Can’t wait to get my frozen hands on it! (Cold snap here in the Carolinas)
February 18, 2015 at 9:21 pm
Karen Nordseth Roos
sweet! Congrats, Tara! Loved getting the inside scoop on this process.
February 18, 2015 at 9:28 pm
Marty McCormick
Always love getting a glimpse into the creative process. Since I’m fans of you both, I know this book won’t disappoint. It sounds (and looks!) fantastic.
February 18, 2015 at 9:38 pm
seschipper
Just love it!!! Thanks for sharing! 🙂
February 18, 2015 at 9:43 pm
Rick Starkey
Always love hearing the process of others. Thanks.
February 18, 2015 at 9:58 pm
Laura F.
Sounds like a book my students will love! Thanks!
February 18, 2015 at 10:00 pm
Natasha
Great post. Fun to hear what the illustrator has to say. I would LOVE to win a F&G!!! (learned a new term, thanks) Congratulations to you both.
February 18, 2015 at 10:16 pm
Jennifer Rumberger
Loved hearing from the illustrator about working on a writer’s words. Can’t wait for your book to come out this fall!
February 18, 2015 at 10:41 pm
Wendi Silvano
Can’t wait to read it Tara! Looks like tons of fun!
February 18, 2015 at 11:08 pm
loveofxena
There’s nothing better than a fractured fairy tale set in my favorite season of the year. This looks like a fun-filled collaboration. Thanks for sharing the illustrative process. This is the kind of thing we can pass on to our students.
February 18, 2015 at 11:15 pm
tinamcho
Darling illustrations! I like how you described how Tara’s words + your illustration interpretations = the magic of a pb! Can’t wait to read it!
February 18, 2015 at 11:15 pm
Teresa Daffern
It must be so satisfying to have the finished picture book exceed both your expectations. I’ll bet the process really does feel like magic. I can’t wait to see it!
February 18, 2015 at 11:48 pm
Selena
What a fun book! Congrats to you both!
February 19, 2015 at 12:05 am
Sandy Perlic
This looks awesome! Love how well the two of you worked together (even though you were working apart!).
February 19, 2015 at 12:38 am
rowenarae
Congratulations to you both! I love hearing how illustrators work. And I can’t wait to read the story and see all the final illustrations!
February 19, 2015 at 1:35 am
Maria Marshall
Thank you for this post and showing us some of the behind the scenes of the illustrations. Congrats. Can’t wait until its out.
February 19, 2015 at 3:06 am
Tim McCanna
Love it Tara and Troy! Thanks for the behind the scenes. Super interesting!
February 19, 2015 at 5:05 am
Alberto Martín "NiñoCactus"
It looks so funny. Congratulations!
February 19, 2015 at 5:37 am
pennymorrison
Tara, your book looks amazing!
February 19, 2015 at 7:53 am
Ali Pfautz
Oh my goodness, this story looks fabulous… the writing and the pictures! Congrats!!
February 19, 2015 at 8:11 am
mona861
Author- Illustrator…Looks like a perfect match to me!
February 19, 2015 at 8:33 am
izabella amar
Thanks for sharing this awesome behind the scenes look of what the book illustration process looks like. It really brings inspiration to unpublished authors to keep writing and sending out their art so we too can share in this awesome experience. I can’t wait to read the book, looks super fun!
February 19, 2015 at 8:36 am
The World Is My Cuttlefish
I see that not only has Troy added little things to find and think about in the illustrations, so have you in your text, Tara. This looks really fun.
February 19, 2015 at 9:13 am
Cathy Breisacher
This story looks hilarious and fun. I can’t wait to get a copy and read it to the kids in my library. Congrats to you, Tara! And to you, too, Troy. The illustrations are fantastic.
February 19, 2015 at 9:49 am
angeladegroot8
Super! And thanks Troy for the illustrator perspective into the writer’s part of the PB creation process.
February 19, 2015 at 9:50 am
daynesislendesign
Thanks Tara and Troy. It’s wonderful to read about and see images of the process. This looks like a beautiful and fun book. Congratulations to you both.
February 19, 2015 at 10:26 am
MickiGinsberg
What fun to peek into the head of an illustrator. Sounds like you are a gem, Troy! Thanks, Tara.
February 19, 2015 at 11:02 am
Michelle Heidenrich Barnes
I so enjoyed getting into Troy’s head with this interview. Clearly, you two are an awesome match up. Can’t wait for the book!
February 19, 2015 at 11:16 am
Dee Knabb
When two creative minds get to work-POW!*!*! Your book looks fantastic.
February 19, 2015 at 11:57 am
Erika Hitchcock
Wonderful inspiration and advice. Congrats and looking forward to reading!!
February 19, 2015 at 12:37 pm
donnacangelosi
Congrats, Tara and Troy! Loved reading about your process for illustrating, Troy!
February 19, 2015 at 12:40 pm
Mary Warth
Great interview Tara and Troy. I love the sneak peek at the fun illustrations and some of the planning that went into them!
February 19, 2015 at 1:10 pm
Sheri Radovich
How neat to hear from the illustrator on one of your books. It was fun to see him take ideas and add his own.
February 19, 2015 at 1:56 pm
Jennette Mutolo
I CANNOT wait to get my hands on this book!
February 19, 2015 at 4:17 pm
danielle hammelef
I am working on a picture book manuscript right now and am trying to remember my future illustrator will be able to add so much depth so I need to keep to my part–the story. It’s been a struggle for me and I really, really needed this post right now. Thank you! And thanks for the chance to win!
February 19, 2015 at 4:37 pm
Jim Chaize
Sounds fabulous! Troy’s comments helped me get a much better feel for how an illustrator works with a manuscript. How color is used fascinates me. Love the comment that put together the author and illustrator create magic. Thanks.
February 19, 2015 at 5:28 pm
Elsa Marston
I was hoping to get a copy for my grandson to enjoy during the hot, sticky, sweaty, melty, often quite icky summer in Austin, Texas, but I guess Little Red won’t be ready in time. Ah well, that’s something to look forward to for Thanksgiving.
February 19, 2015 at 6:21 pm
aliciaminor
Two T’s equal to a magical picture book. It’s a clear author-illustrator collaboration that Tara and Troy bring to the pages of picture book. Congrats!
February 19, 2015 at 7:55 pm
Penny Parker Klostermann
“Swizzled and twizzled”!!!! Oh wonderful words!!! Loved this interview and a peek at Little Red Gliding Hood! So fun, Tara and Troy.
February 19, 2015 at 8:02 pm
sardyhar
I love this conversation between author and illustrator. What a very different process it is for the illustrator. Thank you for giving us writers access to this perspective.
February 19, 2015 at 10:09 pm
Michelle Schaub
Love the idea. Love the title. Love the look.. Can’t wait to see the book in its entirety.
February 19, 2015 at 10:19 pm
colleenr kosinski
Looks fun! Love the word swizzled!
February 20, 2015 at 12:18 pm
Rebecca Van Slyke
Tara and Troy, you have a winner here! I-C-Y they matched the two of you together!
February 20, 2015 at 1:21 pm
Darshana
Looks wonderful! Thanks for sharing this with us!
February 20, 2015 at 7:11 pm
Darshana
I love the frozen river spread! Amazing!
February 20, 2015 at 4:13 pm
Shari Della Penna
Congratulations to you both! What fun. Thanks for sharing.
February 20, 2015 at 5:42 pm
Maria J Cuesta
Love it!!! Great story and illustrations! Can’t wait!!
February 21, 2015 at 3:39 am
Yvonne Mes
Hooray on your book, Tara! And I loved these insights into the illustration process. I am certain this book will make me smile!
February 21, 2015 at 1:47 pm
amievc
Thank you both so much for sharing the details of your process with us. It is such a gift that you gave us all a glimpse of the work that goes into the magic you create. I especially love all of the thumbnails and sketches. I’m really looking forward to the book’s release!
February 21, 2015 at 4:23 pm
Ali Pichardo
Thank you Tara and Troy, for an informative interview. It was exciting to see Troy’s first sketches and than the finished illustrations. It is magic that connects the writer’s story and the illustrator’s drawings to create a picture book. Congratulations to both of you.
February 21, 2015 at 6:50 pm
cheryllovestoread
My grandson just loves Troy Cummings’ illustrations in The Notebooks of Doom. We would love to have your book and his artwork in one spot!!
February 21, 2015 at 10:27 pm
writersideup
This book is right up your skating rink, Tara 🙂
February 22, 2015 at 8:41 am
Lauri Meyers
Love it Tara and Troy! Now I have a new lens to look at manuscript success: would this text make an illustrator start sketching on the bus ride home?
February 22, 2015 at 11:32 am
darlenebeckjacobson
Congratulations Tara! What a great interview with a fantastic illustrator. This book sounds like so much fun…can’t wait to glide into it…(Couldn’t resist!)
February 22, 2015 at 12:24 pm
Shirley Menendez
I love fairy tales. Can’t wait to see this take on Little Red Riding Hood. Would love to win the book.
February 22, 2015 at 5:20 pm
Steve Barr
If the book is even half as entertaining as this article was, it’s sure to be a major hit! LOVE the illustrations. Can’t wait to see it in person.
February 22, 2015 at 7:08 pm
Natalie Lynn Tanner
Tara’s imaginative story paired with Troy’s whimsical illustrations = A PERFECT MATCH!!!! I AM SO EXCITED TO READ AND VIEW THIS BOOK! The art work is reminiscent of childhood favorite tales, but in a retro-fun way!!!! WONDERFUL!!!!!
February 22, 2015 at 10:20 pm
ThisKidReviewsBooks
That’s just plain awesome! 😀
February 23, 2015 at 2:51 am
Norah
This does indeed look like a fun book, Tara. Thanks for sharing. 🙂
February 23, 2015 at 6:48 am
Elodie
Thank you, that was really useful to read Troy’s description re putting too much in as an author. The importance of leaving space for the illustrations. The book looks totally wonderful.
February 23, 2015 at 2:52 pm
Michelle O'Hara Levin
This was really interesting! Thank you and I can’t wait to read this book.
February 23, 2015 at 8:43 pm
Kristin Beller
Little Red Gliding Hood looks reeaaallly good!! Excited for this to come out!
February 24, 2015 at 3:57 pm
Aidan Cassie
a great peek in to the illustrator/author magic!
February 24, 2015 at 7:39 pm
jpetroroy
GORGEOUS illustrations.
February 25, 2015 at 10:12 am
lindaschueler
Thanks for sharing your process. This looks like such a fun fractured fairy tale.
February 26, 2015 at 9:17 pm
Brainstorming: Using rhyme and homonyms to take an idea someplace new | One Writer's Journey
[…] I read an interview with illustrator Troy Cummings. One of his recent projects is a fractured fairy tale picture […]
March 1, 2015 at 11:20 pm
Julie Klipfel
This book looks adorable!! So sad I just missed the date to enter to win. I will definitely be buying this book though. Congratulations to the winner 🙂