Interview with Mike Curato

During my time with the Broad Collective, I was lucky enough to interview author Mike Curato in preparation for his visit at Avid Bookshop.  I included his book, Little Elliot Big City, in my list of mentor texts.  Here is my interview with the author, originally posted at the Broad Collective.

Little Elliot has an affinity for cupcakes. He lives in a stylish brownstone. Oh, and he’s a white elephant covered in pastel polka dots. I recently had the pleasure of speaking with Little Elliot’s creator, Mike Curato, as he makes his way to Athens to celebrate his new book Little Elliot, Big Family.

Taylor: What advice would you give an aspiring children’s author?

Mike: Aside from reading everything you can get your hands on, I would definitely recommend getting involved with your regional SCBWI [Society of Children’s Book Writers and Illustrators] chapter (scbwi.org).

Taylor: Have you always loved to read and write? Did you discover a love of one before the other?

Mike: Yes, I have always loved to read and write! I’m not sure if one came before the other, but as a child I loved reading picture books, then comic books. Meanwhile, I wrote short stories, poems, and letters to my pen pal.

Taylor: I’ve loved books since before I could read and have returned to many of my childhood favorites throughout adulthood. What drew you to children’s literature?

Mike: I think “children’s literature” is really for everybody, and that’s why I love it best. It’s made to be inclusive of children, but it boils down very big ideas and feelings into just a few pages that anyone can understand.

Taylor: Elephants are believed to be wise and often used as a symbol for strength and intelligence. What do you hope others learn from Little Elliot?

Mike: I’m not sure Elliot is here to teach as much as remind people that we need to take care of each other. Sometimes our family needs to open up to include others who don’t have anyone. We can celebrate the families we have as well as the families we make.

Taylor: As an aspiring educator I spend a lot of time with students. I was recently able to read Little Elliot to some of my students and told them I was going to get to speak with you. They eagerly suggested questions of their own . . .

Taylor: What’s your favorite color?

Mike: Mint!

Taylor: Where is the Big City?

Mike: It is based on old New York.

Taylor: Do you write songs?

Mike: What an interesting question! I don’t write them professionally, but sometimes I will make up silly songs with my friends.

Taylor: Why did you choose an elephant?

Mike: I love elephants! I had a little elephant toy when I was little. They are very caring animals.

Taylor: Why didn’t you choose a dog or cat?

Mike: Well, I do love dogs and cats, but Elliot was always an elephant to me. Maybe I’ll make another book with a dog and a cat someday.

Taylor: Can you shoot web like Spiderman?

Mike: I WISH I COULD! Then I could grab cupcakes in the kitchen without leaving my room!

Taylor: Do you eat cupcakes?

Mike: I do indeed! But I also eat my veggies to keep a balanced diet.

Taylor: How do you write a book?

Mike: Authors have different ways of writing books. I like to write about things that are important to me, like friends and cupcakes!

Taylor: Do you have any pets?

Mike: I don’t have any pets right now because I travel a lot, but I do have a ceramic dog named Kimbo. Sometimes I talk to him, but he is very quiet.

Meet Mike Curato and Little Elliot at a Special Pajama Story Time October 13 6:30 at Avid Bookshop. Come prepared in your jammies – sleeping bags, blankets, and lovies are also welcome!