Who Inspires You?
November is “National Inspirational Role Models Month,” so it seemed like a good time to write about my own role models, and whom I look to for inspiration and ideas. Prepare for some unabashed mushiness.
My greatest source of inspiration is my own family. My kids are wonderfully unique individuals who never cease to fascinate me. They do, say and experience things, and I think, “There’s a book in that!” Our Dumpy the Dump Truck books were completely inspired by my son Sam, and The Very Fairy Princess is largely based on my daughter Hope. I am also frequently inspired by my wonderful husband, Steve, who is a one-man cheering section, the world’s best Dad (and cook!), and who has been known to solve plot problems for me in his dreams.
All four of my parents are endlessly inspiring, as are my many siblings, cousins, aunts, uncles and in-laws. Their varied and interesting lives enrich my own in so many ways, and their constant support makes it possible for me to do what I do. And I can’t begin to count the number of inspirational friends and colleagues whose lives and stories continuously touch and inform mine. Other writers, of course, are a huge source of inspiration. Among my current heroes in the children’s literature field are Peter H. Reynolds, Mo Willems, Jon Scieszka, Jack Prelutsky, Lauren Child, Katherine Paterson and Phillip Pullman. These gifted writers never cease to inspire me with the scope and freshness of their style and ideas, and the unique contribution they make to the lives of children everywhere.
But perhaps my most inspirational role model is – drumroll, please – my Mom and writing partner. Never one to rest on her laurels, she continues to stretch herself in new ways and mediums, and at an age when most people have long since retired, she is the hardest working person I know. She is always proactive, ever optimistic, never complains, and is generous beyond all reason. She is beautiful, vibrant, smart, funny and a veritable font of creativity. If I am ever half the gal she is, I’ll be happy.
Who inspires you?
