Welcome to our #WinterRead2021 Author Spotlight Series! We’re thrilled to be featuring 8 incredibly talented authors from our 2021 sponsor Simon & Schuster as a part of our 4th Annual Winter Reading Challenge.
This week, we’ve interviewed Debbie Ridpath Ohi, author and illustrator of Sam and Eva and Where Are My Books?. Her writing and illustrations have appeared in over 20 books, including authors Judy Blume, Michael Ian Black, Linda Sue Park, Aaron Reynolds, Rob Sanders, Lauren McLaughlin and Colby Sharp. Check out our interview with her below, and learn more about her work here. Twitter: @inkyelbows on Instagram: @inkygirl
What are you currently reading?
Flamer by Mike Curato.
Where is your favorite place to read?
In my reading nook chair (very comfy, good lighting).
What is your favorite thing you've written? Book or otherwise!
Sam & Eva.
What's your favorite book by someone other than yourself?
So hard to answer! Just a few faves: Dandelion Wine by Ray Bradbury, The Great Gilly Hopkins by Katherine Paterson, A Wrinkle in Time by Madeleine L'Engle.
What is your favorite word and why?
"Defenestration", because it sounds technical but it's just a funny way of saying "the act of throwing someone out the window." Be assured that I like saying the word much more than enacting it.
What is the funniest typo you’ve written?
I can't recall, but I am happy to blame embarrassing typos on autocorrect.
When did you first realize you wanted to be a writer? And/or how did you become a writer?
I've wanted to write books for young people for as long as I can remember. I became a writer by reading a LOT and writing every day.
If you could give one piece of advice to an aspiring writer, what would it be?
Read, read, read. Also (I'm cheating and giving a second piece of advice), remember that first drafts are SUPPOSED to be horrible; you can always revise later.
What is your favorite thing about winter?
New fallen snow always makes me think of a blank canvas.
What does "Books Like Us" mean to you?
When I recognize myself in a character I'm reading about.
Any fun facts?
I enjoy drawing with my food!
Stay tuned for future Simon & Schuster author spotlights throughout #WinterRead2021, and encourage your community to keep reading!