Today I have the pleasure of welcoming author Janna Matthies and her delightful nighttime romp, HERE WE COME!, illustrated in bluesy, moody watercolor by Christine Davenier.
A boy sets off with his flute and his stuffed bear and a rum-pum-pum. As they make their way through the town and the woods, they ask, “Wanna come?” Soon, kids and creatures join in the fun one by one, playing instruments, singing, and dancing to the catchy tune.
But will a storm bring their fun-filled musical parade to an end?
Janna, we discuss how to brainstorm story ideas on my blog. Where did the idea for HERE WE COME come from?
Believe it or not, I wrote this manuscript nearly ten years ago, and Beach Lane Books acquired it more than five years ago. So my memory is a little foggy on the story-storming process. However, I can say that marching around singing and dancing with kids is a regular part of my life (I’m a music teacher part-time). So the subject matter was a natural for me. I do remember the phrase, “Here we come with a rum-pum-pum. Wanna come?” popping into my mind. After that, the real brainstorming began as I recognized that subsequent lines would all need to end with words that rhyme with “come.” So I jotted down a long list of every word I could think of. I believe I used everything on the list except for “plum”, “crumb” and “scum”—probably best, on that last word.
Haha! Yes, that is for the best!
This is a cumulative tale. What special tips or recommendations do you have for others creating this kind of story?
Yes, it’s cumulative and told in rhyming verse. Making the rhythm and rhyme as clean as possible is key to a rolicking read-aloud. As for the plot, each accumulated line needs to up the ante in some way. In the case of HERE WE COME!, each new line introduces a different character making a musical sound—“a pick and a strum” (dog), “Little Lu on her thumb with a swish-swish bum” (toddler in a diaper—a real crowd-pleaser, by the way), “fiddle-dee-fiddle-dum” (enormous, jaunty bear), etc.. The characters and their sounds are increasingly unexpected or funny or joyful. And then comes the line that changes everything—“a drip on a drum”. UH-OH! Something climactic is about to happen! Of course, this building excitement or tension is accomplished through the synergy of words and illustrations. I was thrilled with how illustrator Christine Davenier staged this musical parade at night and included kids as well as woodland animals. The two adorable hedgehogs paired with the words “Clap-clap with a chum” nearly steal the show!
Did you include any illustration notes for Christine, or were the characters and setting all from her imagination?
In this case, I provided no illustration notes at all. I was between agents at the time and submitted the manuscript exclusively to Allyn Johnston at Beach Lane, who I’d received a personal note from before. I knew from an interview that Allyn doesn’t like art notes—she’s since told me my wide-open text was part of the appeal for her. So yes, the setting and characters are entirely Christine’s invention.
I’m so curious—did you have anything different in mind and you just didn’t say so?
Yes. In my mind a couple of human siblings or friends were heading outdoors on a sunny day, maybe banging pots like drums, or maybe real drums. And as they moved through the neighborhood, they ran across other kids and invited them along. Some played real instruments, others made up rhythms on everyday items or played “air-instruments” (My husband likes to think he’s very good at air guitar and air drums, for instance.). Funny enough, Christine says that when she read the text and imagined the scene, it was “obviously at night”. Because she used a whimsical, dream-like mix of animal and human characters, it’s perfectly fine for them to be parading alone through the woods at night. I was completely delighted when I saw her sketches and thought, “Brilliant!”
That sincerely demonstrates the trust that author and illustrator must have with each other. Brava to you both!
Finally, what is your message to kids who pick up this book?
I hope kids feel invited into making music—any way, anyhow, anywhere. Sing! Drum on a box! Imitate the hum of a fan or the rhythm of a woodpecker. Say “yes” if the chance comes to learn an instrument. The joy of music is for all, and is especially wonderful when shared. I hope kids’ internally reply, “Yes! I wanna come!”
Blog readers, do you wanna come, too? Janna is giving away a signed copy of HERE WE COME! Just leave a comment below to enter. A random winner will be selected next month.
Good luck…and thank you, Janna!
Janna Matthies is a picture book author and early-elementary music teacher in Indianapolis. Her books include two soon-to-be-announced titles as well as HERE WE COME! (Beach Lane Books/S&S); GOD’S ALWAYS LOVING YOU (WorthyKids); TWO IS ENOUGH (Running Press Kids), THE GOODBYE CANCER GARDEN (Albert Whitman) and others. When she’s not reading, writing or making music, Janna enjoys gardening, walking her husky, and hanging out with her husband and three mostly-grown kids. Visit her at jannamatthies.blogspot.com and follow her on Twitter @JannaMatthies.
100 comments
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April 7, 2022 at 12:41 pm
Kim A Larson
Congratulations, Janna! The book sounds so fun and the illustrations are delightful! I can’t wait to read it!
April 7, 2022 at 2:53 pm
JANNA MATTHIES
Thanks, Kim!
April 7, 2022 at 12:42 pm
Bethanny Parker
“Here We Come” sounds like a delightful story. Congrats!
April 7, 2022 at 12:44 pm
Anita Banks
This sounds so charming!
April 7, 2022 at 12:47 pm
Jany Campana
Thanks Janna for helping everyone to say “Yes” to music!!!
April 7, 2022 at 2:54 pm
JANNA Dawson MATTHIES
You’re welcome, Jany!
April 7, 2022 at 12:50 pm
Sheila Wipperman
Congrats, Janna! “Here We Come” sounds perfectly wonderful! Makes me want to pick up my ukelele and join in! I’m sure my two year old grandson will love it–a must read! 🙂
April 7, 2022 at 2:56 pm
JANNA Dawson MATTHIES
Yes, do join in, Sheila, ukulele and grandkids too!
April 7, 2022 at 12:52 pm
Phyllis Cherry
I love your story about the road to publication! Five years is a long time, but not unrealistic in the writer’s world. I like the artist’s illustrations and the her creation of the characters who created the musical sounds. Congratulations on your determination to complete the story.
April 7, 2022 at 2:57 pm
JANNA Dawson MATTHIES
Thanks, Phyllis! Now that the time is here, the wait was worth it…and yes, could’ve been longer.
April 7, 2022 at 12:55 pm
triciahinely
What an unexpected treat to hear your writing process. I especially enjoyed hearing how you had your own vision of the illustrations, (which you had to keep to yourself) and the illustrator had a different vision. So far I’m just dreamer in this field . My first instinct would be,”of course the author knows best how the illustrations should look,” but now I can see that isn’t necessarily true! So much to learn! Thank you for sharing. Your book looks delightful!
April 7, 2022 at 2:57 pm
JANNA Dawson MATTHIES
Glad this was helpful, tricia!
April 7, 2022 at 12:58 pm
Gretchen McLellan
This book is absolutely charming. My grandchildren head straight for my instrument stash when they visit and create a parade of joyful sound. This book is perfect for them!
April 7, 2022 at 2:58 pm
JANNA Dawson MATTHIES
Thanks, Gretchen! I hope the book can add delight to your music times with the grandkids.
April 7, 2022 at 12:58 pm
Mary Copp
Yes! I wanna come! What a fun read and a great interview!!
April 7, 2022 at 2:59 pm
JANNA Dawson MATTHIES
Hi Mary! Do come…thank you! 🙂
April 7, 2022 at 1:08 pm
Patricia Toht
So inviting! Love the cover. Congratulations, Janna!
April 7, 2022 at 1:10 pm
Deb Buschman (@DebBuschman)
Adorable!! Thanks for sharing.
April 7, 2022 at 1:12 pm
Jaime Petrucci
This looks like such a cute book Janna! Looking forward to reading it with my kids.
April 7, 2022 at 3:00 pm
JANNA Dawson MATTHIES
Thanks, Jaime! Hope you all enjoy it. 🙂
April 7, 2022 at 1:23 pm
conlombardo
So completely lively and adorable!! Beautiful illustrations! This picture book will obviously invite participation – and that is the best!
April 7, 2022 at 1:32 pm
Jennie H
Making music and dancing bring so much joy. Can’t wait to read this book! Congrats on publication!
April 7, 2022 at 3:01 pm
JANNA Dawson MATTHIES
Indeed, Jennie. Thank you!
April 7, 2022 at 1:34 pm
Patricia Finnegan
I cannot wait to see this book. It sounds like a romp for both parents and children
April 7, 2022 at 1:34 pm
rosecappelli
So much fun! And I love the illustrations, too.
April 7, 2022 at 1:45 pm
Danielle Hammelef
As a picture book writer struggling with balancing my text versus the illustrator’s creativity, this book will be so much fun to read and study. I’m also a musician and play the flute. Thank you for the tips and chance to win a copy.
April 7, 2022 at 3:02 pm
JANNA Dawson MATTHIES
Great, Danielle! I hope it’s fun and helpful. 🙂
April 7, 2022 at 1:55 pm
Henrietta Choplin
Lovely, magical… text and illustrations!
April 7, 2022 at 2:05 pm
Angie
Love it! Enchanting! Congratulations, Janna!
April 7, 2022 at 2:23 pm
Rebecca Gardyn Levington
This book sounds beautiful and magical! I loved this post and also listening to you and the editor and illustrator discuss the making of this book on the PB Look podcast. Thank you for sharing your story with us and CONGRATS!
April 7, 2022 at 3:03 pm
JANNA Dawson MATTHIES
Oh, good. Glad you caught that podcast too. So thankful for other authors who share their excellent formats with the rest of us! Hope you enjoy the book. 🙂
April 7, 2022 at 2:36 pm
elisederstine
I love the “swish swish bum”! Looking forward to this one. Congratulations, Janna.
April 7, 2022 at 3:04 pm
JANNA Dawson MATTHIES
I think that’s my favorite, too, Elise! Thank you 🙂
April 7, 2022 at 2:46 pm
Helena Abigail Perry
I can’t wait to read your book!
April 7, 2022 at 3:09 pm
amyhouts
Ten years? And then waiting 5 additional years? Oh my, Janna! What patience it takes to be an author.
April 7, 2022 at 3:14 pm
JANNA Dawson MATTHIES
Hi Amy! You are so right about that. Hopefully this will be my record, and yours will go much faster. 🙂
April 7, 2022 at 3:19 pm
stiefelchana
Congrats! Your book looks delightful! Can’t wait to read it.
April 7, 2022 at 3:23 pm
Kassy Keppol
Thank you for sharing.
April 7, 2022 at 3:31 pm
Mary
Janna and Christine, This is one of the MOST adorable books I’ve seen in a long time. I also write in rhyme, so can’t wait to get a copy. And the pastel colors lend themselves well to a nighttime music parade! Well done!!
April 8, 2022 at 2:28 pm
JANNA Dawson MATTHIES
Thanks, Mary! Glad it hit just the right “note” with you. 🙂
April 7, 2022 at 3:37 pm
kathydoherty1
A super sweet book! I want to come along, too!
April 8, 2022 at 2:28 pm
JANNA Dawson MATTHIES
Aw, thanks and hello, Kathy! You are always welcome to come along. 🙂
April 7, 2022 at 4:25 pm
donnacangelosi
Thank you for this interview! Your book looks adorable, Janna! I can’t wait to read it!
April 7, 2022 at 4:33 pm
sue macartney
Congratulations Janna – your book looks delightful! Looking forward to reading it😊
April 7, 2022 at 4:33 pm
Meredith Fraser
I can certainly see my grands and me parading around reciting your prose!
Congratulations can’t wait to read!!
April 8, 2022 at 2:29 pm
JANNA Dawson MATTHIES
Thank you, Meredith! Hope you’re able to pick up a copy at the store or library and enjoy with those little ones. 🙂
April 7, 2022 at 4:38 pm
Rachel Krackeler
Yes, I wanna come! 🙂
April 7, 2022 at 4:54 pm
chaunceyelephant
Love the pattern of the words! And how fascinating to see the artist’s interpretation. Congratulations
April 7, 2022 at 5:03 pm
Natasha Garnett
Janna! Congratulations, what a wonderful, beautiful, musical book. I can picture all the happy children marching and drumming and clapping behind you. I love that Christine put humans and animals together in the parade.
April 8, 2022 at 2:30 pm
JANNA Dawson MATTHIES
Thank you, Natasha!
April 7, 2022 at 5:03 pm
michelerietz
This looks like a fun and interactive book! I can’t wait to read it with my grandkids.
Congrats on your picture book success and thanks for sharing your process with us.
April 8, 2022 at 2:31 pm
JANNA Dawson MATTHIES
You’re welcome, Michele. Thank you!
April 7, 2022 at 5:09 pm
Carol Gwin Nelson
I’d love to come along on this parade! I’m so impressed by the way you were able to write the story in a way that the illustrator had free reign on the characters and setting! I think my grandchildren would love this. Congratulations!
April 8, 2022 at 2:32 pm
JANNA Dawson MATTHIES
Thank you, Carol. Hope you and your grandkids enjoy this!
April 7, 2022 at 5:17 pm
Marci Whitehurst
What a fun read aloud! Great work! Congrats on this and all of your books!
April 7, 2022 at 5:37 pm
Karin Larson
This looks like a beautiful and fun book, congratulations!
April 7, 2022 at 6:14 pm
shirley301
What a fun parade. I’m sure kids will be delighted to come along. Congrats.
April 7, 2022 at 6:15 pm
kiwijenny
I love the ramping up and joyfulness. Yay thumbs up…drumming thumbs up
April 7, 2022 at 6:30 pm
Sara Matson
Looking forward to reading your book. Thank you for sharing its story!
April 7, 2022 at 6:41 pm
andreesantini
I love this, looks like a joyful romp!
April 7, 2022 at 8:00 pm
topangamaria
Oh this looks like so much fun ! Congratulations !
April 7, 2022 at 8:00 pm
Karan Greene
What a delightful story! Thanks for sharing!
April 7, 2022 at 8:51 pm
evelynchristensen
This book sounds wonderful! Congratulations and thank you for sharing some of the background with us.
April 8, 2022 at 2:33 pm
JANNA Dawson MATTHIES
You’re welcome, Evelyn! Thanks for reading. 🙂
April 7, 2022 at 10:19 pm
Sylvia Mary Grech
Congrats to you Janna! Sounds and looks like a very lovely book!
April 7, 2022 at 10:24 pm
seschipper
Congratulations, Janna! This appears to be a simply delightful book! Looking forward to reading it! 🙂
April 7, 2022 at 10:33 pm
Kate Woodle
This “sounds” marvelous!
April 7, 2022 at 10:42 pm
Brittney
This book looks adorable and fun! Thank you, Janna, for sharing your story about the journey of this story.
April 8, 2022 at 2:37 am
kirstenpendreigh
Love this book! Congrats, it is so fun!
April 8, 2022 at 6:16 am
yangmommy
What a delightful premise for a book! Congratulations & now those 2 hedgehogs are forever marching in my mind! Can’t wait to read your tale!
April 8, 2022 at 2:34 pm
JANNA Dawson MATTHIES
Yay for hedgehogs! Hope you enjoy it. 🙂
April 8, 2022 at 8:15 am
Tamara Rittershaus
I love that you let go and let illustrator shine. Looking forward to your book!
April 8, 2022 at 2:35 pm
JANNA Dawson MATTHIES
Hi Tamara and thanks–this was such an exciting collaboration for me. Hope you enjoy the book!
April 8, 2022 at 10:57 am
Mona Voelkel
Congratulations, Janna! I love this review and want to read this! I love “each accumulated line needs to up the ante in some way” as advice for writers!!!
April 8, 2022 at 2:35 pm
JANNA Dawson MATTHIES
Hi Mona, glad the advice was helpful. Best wishes to you!
April 8, 2022 at 11:04 am
marshaelyn
Janna, Your prrrummm, prrrummmm rhythmic rhyme sounds delightful! Promoting music and marching and silliness with newfound friends is a wonderful lesson for children AND adults. I will certainly have our local library purchase your new book for its shelves. (I’m a Board Member, so I have a bit of a “push and pull” when it comes to requests.) LOL
The story of your journey with this book is encouraging for all of us. Sending you energy and inspiration for your continued success in storytelling….
April 8, 2022 at 2:37 pm
JANNA Dawson MATTHIES
Hi Marsha–thanks so much for the kind feedback and for encouraging your library to have it on the shelves! My best to you in your bookish endeavors. 🙂
April 8, 2022 at 11:30 am
Cindy S
Looks lovely. Thanks for sharing.
April 8, 2022 at 4:22 pm
Jilanne Hoffmann
Gorgeous artwork and perfect rhyme, a match made on Beach Lane. Looking forward to reading this!
April 11, 2022 at 1:27 pm
JANNA Dawson MATTHIES
Thanks, Jilanne!
April 8, 2022 at 9:45 pm
Susan Johnston Taylor
Congrats, Janna and Christine! Looking forward to reading this book.
April 8, 2022 at 9:49 pm
marty bellis
Looking forward to reading this! Five years is a long time to wait, but what a fun sounding book and amazing illustrations. Congratulations!
April 9, 2022 at 12:05 am
Judy Sobanski
I love the combination of humans and animals in this whimsical and musical celebration! Congratulations!
April 11, 2022 at 1:29 pm
JANNA Dawson MATTHIES
Thanks, Judy!
April 9, 2022 at 4:50 am
Colleen Dabney
This book looks great! I appreciate the honesty of the interview. It gives me personal hope to realize there is worth in the wait.
April 11, 2022 at 1:28 pm
JANNA Dawson MATTHIES
Glad it was helpful, Colleen!
April 9, 2022 at 10:03 pm
Elizabethh
Janna, I have aways loved music. Your book sounds like lots of fun. I’m looking forward to reading it. It sounds charming.
April 9, 2022 at 10:31 pm
Natalie Lynn Tanner
JANNA: I AM SO IN LOVE with this SWEET book! The storyline and illustrations have TRULY taken-in my heart! There is such a dreamlike calmness that accompanies the text, that I can’t help but feel like I’m marching into Dreamland. BEAUTIFUL!
April 11, 2022 at 1:29 pm
JANNA Dawson MATTHIES
Thanks, Natalie! I didn’t anticipate how dreamy it would be. 🙂
April 10, 2022 at 8:40 am
Mary Warth
Thanks Janna- this book sounds amazing!
April 10, 2022 at 1:36 pm
Lindsey Aduskevich
Janna, this book looks and sounds wonderful! And the illustrations are darling! Lots of fun!!! I can’t wait to read this one with my girls.
April 11, 2022 at 1:30 pm
JANNA Dawson MATTHIES
Thank you, Lindsey!
April 11, 2022 at 5:37 am
authorshannonanderson
Can’t wait to read this one. Janna, this is SO you. What a gift to the world.
April 11, 2022 at 11:14 am
Patricia Kreiser
What fun! Thanks for sharing your journey!
April 11, 2022 at 1:59 pm
Carol Gordon Ekster
This looks lovely! Congrats to you!
April 14, 2022 at 3:10 pm
lkmrestart
Congratulations! Best wishes for your new book!
April 18, 2022 at 8:21 am
Janna MacLean
Awesome interview! Nice name too. 😁
~Janna
April 19, 2022 at 9:13 pm
claireannette1
What a fun picture book – It’s exactly the kind of book that I love to read aloud to the children I work with.
April 23, 2022 at 10:56 am
Nancy Ferguson
This sounds like a great read and sing and march aloud!
May 13, 2022 at 12:53 am
Elayne
What a fun-sounding book! 🙂 Congrats and queue the fanfare!