First of all, John, thank you for taking the time to answer our questions! How do you balance your life as a writer with all of the other responsibilities in your life? Do you find the time to sit down and write every day?
I'm terribly streaky and disorganized, probably since I have so much else going on. I always have to wait until windows of opportunity come up, then I write a blue streak. And when that happens, I better be sure I have some good ideas!
What prompted you to begin writing children’s books?
It all started with concerts for kids, which I started to do when my own kids were small. I wrote things for the concerts which turned into books. If you notice, half my books are songs which appear on my albums and concert programs.
What has been the most memorable experience in your writing career?
The day that I first held one of my books in my hand. Kind of like a first child.
What do you feel Robert Neubecker’s art brought to the text of your latest children’s book, I Got Two Dogs (Simon & Schuster, 2008)?
Robert’s illustrations bring happy chaos and comedy to my words. In every case, his version of the two dogs completely contradicts my description of them, and that’s what makes the book so funny and charming.
What can your fans expect from you next?
Who knows? I’m waiting for inspiration to strike again. But it won’t be long.
