Interview with Author/Illustrator, Laura Ellen Anderson

As part of World book Day, Chase Bridge were visited by the author and illustrator  Laura Ellen Anderson who is famous for writing the Amelia Fang books.

The day started with a talk where she spoke about how she enjoys writing and expressing herself. She taught all the children how to draw her characters. She also worked with the children to create a front cover which is pictured below.

Lacey, Emmi and Jessica spoke to Laura about being an author you can read their interview below.

What made you become an author?

I illustrated books and I loved books so much I wanted to write some myself.

Is it hard to brainstorm ideas? What do you do?

I like it and you can write anything down. I don’t find it difficult because there is something to write down every time. I always carry a sketch book and even this morning at 7am I was writing ideas down on the tube. Try to carry a notebook even if it is a small pocket one.

I come up with character ideas, settings and the world. This often happens at random times. I also plan how it will be laid out in the book.  I work with my editor and we go back and forth because I write too much and need to cut it down.

What books do you enjoy reading?

I like funny books and at the moment I am reading Wonder by R.J Palacio, it is very interesting to read.

What tips do you have for someone that wants to become an author?

Write, write and write! Just write all the time! Bring a notepad everywhere you go and keep reading. Go to the bookshop and find the books that are most popular and it will inspire you. Also do some research. Most important is perseverance. never give up!

We really enjoyed talking to Laura about being an author and we learnt that if you want to be an author you need to keep a notepad with your for ideas. We hope that this interview will encourage you to read and try to become an author.

Have you read Laura’s books? Do you want to be an author when you are older? Let us know in the comments below.

Written by Jessica (5B) , Lacey (5D) and Emmi (5W)