What draws you to write and create for young readers?
I have always wanted to be a writer. I rediscovered my love for picture books when my 14-year-old son was a baby. I will never forget the way his eyes lit up or how his little hands explored the pages. Pure magic. My desire to write for children deepened year after year as we read book after book.
I drove a bookmobile to underserved communities when I worked at the Garden City Public Library in Idaho. I think these kiddos really connected with me because I was so familiar with kidlit. My heart exploded with joy every time they returned a book and excitedly asked for another. I felt like I was making a difference in their lives, but I wanted to do more. I wanted to write books for them.
As my career started to develop, I realized I wanted to push “what can be done” in the picture book space. I tend to write about difficult topics. And I am very passionate about contributing to queer kidlit.
What stories/people have shaped you as the author you are?
My Knopf editor compared my lyrical writing to Julie Fogliano and Corinna Luyken. What a compliment! I have looked up to both these ladies for years. They write books that stay with you long after you close the covers, which is what I strive to do.
I’m also forever grateful for Laura Gehl and Arree Chung’s support and encouragement over the years. They believed in me at the beginning of my kidlit journey, which is something I will never forget. I’ve always appreciated Arree’s transparency and giving heart. He does so much for the kidlit community. Laura’s inspiring emails live in my writing space. I first connected with her in 2017 through Writing with the Stars. She was my mentor. I’ve wanted to give back ever since. I am proud to be a Queer Kidlit mentor again this year.
Any message to share with young authors (particularly, children who have the dream of authoring)?
My childhood dream was to be a writer. I never let go of that dream. I held it close to my heart through all the rejection. It’s a journey. For most authors, like me, it takes years. Some moments will sting, but you can accomplish anything if you follow your heart. Dream big! Never give up! And read hundreds of books!
Where can we find more information about your work?
Website: https://ajirving.com/
Twitter: https://twitter.com/aj_irving
Instagram: https://instagram.com/aj_irving?r=nametag
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ajirvingauthor
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