While the crows celebrate the release of my book of poems about them, Rainbow Crow, I thought some of you might like to learn a little more about me, the author they have tormented for so long.
One of the children’s books I love is Dear Mr. Henshaw, by the late, great Beverly Cleary. It’s a series of letters from fifth-grader Leigh Botts to Mr. Henshaw, an author he admires. We never meet Mr. Henshaw, but we get to know him, that “very nice young man with a wicked twinkle in his eye.”
So in the spirit of Beverly Cleary, who I hope is looking down on us all from that great library in the sky, I offer you Leigh’s questions for Mr. Henshaw, with my answers.
1) How many books have you written?
Two. The first is The Joy of Poetry, about my mom. The second is Rainbow Crow, about crows. Both have poems in them.
2) Is Megan Willome your real name or is it fake?
Real.
3) Why do you write books for children?
They last longer than books for adults.
4) Where do you get your ideas?
Outside.
5) Do you have any kids?
Two. They’re grownups now.
6) What is your favorite book that you wrote?
No comment.
7) Do you like to write books?
Sort of. They’re harder than poems.
8) What is the title of your next book?
What do you think it should be?
9) What is your favorite animal?
Well, crows, obviously. I am also partial to dogs and cardinals. I do not care for deer.
10: Please give me some tips on how to write a book.
Write every day. Read every day. Take walks outside.
On Monday, I’ll share Mr. Henshaw’s questions for Leigh, also with my answers.
