Patricia Lakin

Cale Atkinson

Muddy, Mud, Bud

Gina Bellisario

Let's Meet a Veterinarian

Let's Meet a Police Officer

Linda Ravin Lodding

Little Red Riding Sheep

Explorers of the Wild

Sir Simon

Where Oliver Fits

Super Frenemies!

Super Family!

Super Sleepover!

Unicorns 101

Super Friends!

Maureen Fergus

The Day Santa Stopped Believing in Harold

Super Detectives!

Off & Away

Vikki VanSickle

If I Had a Gryphon

Peter Wohlleben

Peter and the Tree Children

Police Officers in My Community

To the Sea

Rock Stars Don't Nap

Monsters 101

Maxwell the Monkey Barber

Susan McLennan

Mike Erskine-Kellie

I Got You a Present!

Vroom, Zoom, Bud

Christianne Jones

Harrison P. Spader, Personal Space Invader

Cale: Nearly all my ideas come out of times when I’m drawing or sketching for fun. When I’m getting lost in my own drawings I never know what ideas may arise or where the pencil will lead me. Before I know it, I’m drawing a big whale on a rainy day or a small puzzle piece on the search for his fit

How have you come up with your most successful story ideas?

Cale: For as long as I can remember I’ve loved telling stories through drawing. Ever since I was a kid I’ve been doing it, be it through stories, comic books or comic strips. I’ve always merged the writing and illustrating to be able to create my stories, whether in a single sketch or full book.

Have you always wanted to write your own stories as well as illustrate?

Cale: I really take inspiration from anywhere and everywhere. From people I see on a walk, to friends or neighbors I grew up with, everything collects in the stove pot that is my brain and simmers until an idea requires the inspiration to bubble over.

Do you find inspiration for characters in children that you know in real life

Cale: If I’m illustrating a book for another Author they may have some notes/ideas on the character's appearance. Overall, I try and get an understanding what the character is all about from the book itself. What’s her/his personality? Is she/he loud? Quiet? Messy or tidy? All those little details help in how I end up drawing them.

How do you know what a character needs to look like? Does the author always have an idea for that?

Cale: I usually start the day checking and responding to messages/emails. Next I write out a list, thinking of what things need to get done for the day and getting it all out of my head onto paper. Once I have my list, the day can vary depending what’s on the go. Most of the time I’m busily drawing and painting at my computer. Otherwise I may be down at a coffee shop trying to get some writing done on a new story or sketch out ideas.

What does a typical workday look like for you?

Cale: I honestly hope for both. I try to come up with stories that have some unique quality/perspective to them, while also hoping they contain a feeling that can connect and be relatable to the reader (no matter the age). I usually start with an idea that grabs me, and then spend the rest of the time working hard to create the feeling/emotion that I hope carries through.

When you’re creating a new story, do you aim for a story that’s relatable or unique?

Cale: I don’t think there is necessarily a right or wrong way, and hope that anyway a reader decides to take in my books, they find enjoyment or a connection. If anything I would suggest to not rush through them, take your time, take in the details, and though there may not be many words, I hope they sense a larger story beyond them.

How do you suggest readers (parents and children alike) get the most out of your books?

Cale: I have a habit of including tiny/hidden details in many of my books. If you ever decide to look a little closer, you may spot something you hadn’t noticed on a first read. :)

Are there ideas or motifs in your art that you think people might generally miss?

Cale: I am SUPER EXCITED to say I have two books coming out in 2018 that I both wrote and illustrated. Off & Away will be released on June 5th, a story of Jo’s great adventure overcoming her fears. Sir Simon: Super Scarer will hit shelves on September 4th. Simon lets you in on the scoop of what being a ghost is all about, while at the same time learning what being a friend is all about. Aside from those I’m busily writing away, hoping to bring more stories out into the world.

You always seem to be doing something exciting. What’s some of your upcoming work that our community of book lovers should be looking out for?

There have been many moments growing up where I've felt alone and unseen, almost invisible in my surroundings. I think most of us have those moments some time or another. I wanted to write a story which captured that feeling, and then showed how everything can change once you meet a friend (or whale!) that sees you for who you are. Having a true friend is a mighty special thing and can turn any rainy day to sunny skies. I wanted to create To The Sea to tell everyone out there, "You are not invisible, I see you!"

To The Sea is an inspiring story of friendship. Why did you create this story?

Cale Atkinson

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