An Author Interview with
Katherine Applegate Go behind the scenes with Newbery Medal–winning author and literary superstar Katherine Applegate as she discusses her return with two exciting new titles releasing in spring! First up is The Littlest Elephant, a picture book adaptation of the best-selling middle grade novel The One and Only Ruby, chronicling protagonist Ruby’s early life in Africa through her Tuskday celebration. The second is Wombat Waiting, a stunning new middle grade standalone about compassion, resilience, and surprising friendships, following a dog named Wombat in the aftermath of a catastrophic fire. You’ve written about Ruby the elephant in the One and Only novels. How was it different to write her story for a younger audience for the picture book The Littlest Elephant? I’ve discovered that collaborating with a talented illustrator makes all the difference when you’re sharing a story with a younger audience. So much information can be conveyed via the art. A classic example: Instead of my describing Ruby’s emotions, Lita Judge was able to eloquently show them with her beautiful illustrations. From a writer’s point of view, it makes everything so much easier! You actually suggested the illustrator Lita Judge for this picture book. Have you worked with her before? Do you have a favorite scene from her illustrations?
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I’d never worked with Lita before, but I’ve always loved the way she brings animals to life in her books. Their faces are so expressive and charming! continued…