KidLit ALERT!
Discovering the Magic of Storytelling:
An Interview with Brittany J. Thurman
Hello, Brittany! Thank you for joining us on Teazurs.Blogspot!
I am thrilled to share insights from the incredible Brittany, a talented author whose journey is both inspiring and enlightening. Brittany’s stories have captivated readers, young and old, and today, she shares with us the magic behind her creative process. Her unique writing style, influenced by her childhood experiences and deep connection to her characters, offers valuable lessons for writers of all ages. This interview is brimming with wisdom, quirky habits, and heartfelt moments that will resonate with anyone passionate about storytelling.
Childhood Inspirations: Can you tell us about a childhood memory that sparked your passion for storytelling?
One of my favorite childhood memories was visiting the library with my grandmother, while she picked out her books, I chose mine. We would come home, and I remember sitting next to her as she read. This had a huge influence on me becoming an avid reader early in life. As a kid, some of my favorite books were the Goosebumps series and Addie Walker: An American Girl, although later in life I questioned why I didn’t have stories that represented Black girls living full and fulfilled lives in present day. My time reading with my grandmother also planted the seeds for the author I am today.
As a child, I didn’t know how books became published, the steps authors took or the time, but deep down I knew it was possible. I also do not remember authors coming to my school for visits, but when I looked at author names and read their bios, I knew if a life of full-time writing was possible for them, this was more than a possibility for me.
Creative Rituals: Do you have any quirky writing rituals or habits that help you get into the creative zone?
I have found that writing in intervals works best for me. Sometimes, this means writing for twenty minutes and taking a break for ten. Or, writing for an hour and taking a break for twenty. I can’t always sit at my desk all day long and there are so many other ways writing can take place that do not involve an office and chair. I sometimes write on my phone or take a notebook outside to get the job done.
I am also a fan of writing super early in the morning, ex. 5 am or earlier, or later at night. I love it when the home is quiet, and it feels as if I am the only one in the world. This has been the best time for me to write.
Characters: If you could invite one of your book characters to dinner, who would it be, and what would you serve them?
I would love to serve up lemon cookies and sweet tea for Africa from my picture book, Fly, then hit the jump ropes! As a kid, I was constantly afraid. My allergies were horrible, so sometimes I was afraid to go outside. I was (and sometimes I still am) reserved, so I had a difficult time talking to people when I was younger. Africa puts one foot forward and steps into what she wants to do, even if she doesn’t know how to do it.
She feels nervous and
does the thing anyway.
I wish I would have been more like Africa as a kid, but I am so proud of the child that I was.
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Literary Magic: What’s the most magical moment you’ve experienced while writing a book?
There have been so many magical moments! For many of my books, the character’s voice comes before anything else. Prior to writing Forever and Always, I felt as if I knew Olivia. She was as real to me as a person in my family or a photograph on my mantel. And because of this closeness I felt between an imaginary character and myself, I knew Olivia’s story would find a light, a home and the right readers.
Writing Soundtrack: Do you listen to music while you write?
I don’t listen to music while writing because I like to keep it quiet! Unfortunately, the noise causes me to lose concentration. But I do love to create playlists for my books, especially as I am writing them. This helps to get into the story. I’ve created playlists for my middle grade novels, like Fearless: Boulevard of Dreams, in which the kids travel back in time. The playlist included some oldies, but goodies, like the song Rocket 88!
Bookshelf Favorites: What three books are must-haves on your bookshelf, and why?
These are my bookshelf must haves:
For Everyone by Jason Reynolds- I use this book for inspiration, especially when the publishing journey feels as lopsided as a roller coaster. This is the best pick me up for any creative journey and the poetry is a quick read.
Each Kindness by Jacqueline Woodson- I firmly believe this picture book should be in every office, school, library and beyond across the globe. Each Kindness may be intended for young readers, but the book is the reminder this world needs to be kind to others. Within is a message- we never get a second chance to be kind to someone. Treating others with respect should be something we all do.
All things by Mildred Taylor- If I could be like any author, I would choose Mildred Taylor. Her work, from characters, to setting and plot are all examples of exceptional storytelling. I suggest everyone reads her work, from prior to Roll of Thunder and beyond.
Superpower Wish: If you could have any superpower to help you write, what would it be, and how would you use it?
My superpower would be to have everlasting patience! I often find myself in moments of worry or panic, thinking that I am not writing fast enough or that I am behind in not only my writing but my career. I often have to step back and reevaluate myself, realizing that these worries are only results of perfectionism. Hence, I need to install more patience into my life!
Writing Apps: Do you have any real-world apps that help you write or revise?
Inspirational Places: Is there a special place you feel most inspired to write? Any routines or specific foods or drinks that help you get creative?
During school visits, I tell kids one of my favorite places to write is 30,000 feet in the air. I love sitting on a plane, having the clouds pass me by and working on a story. The engine noise has a soothing effect, and it also helps to be so far above anything happening on land! Coffee is my must have drink, and if it’s too late to drink a cappuccino, tea works, too!
Young Reader Wisdom: What's the best piece of advice a young reader has ever given you?
The best piece of advice appeared before I became a published author. Years ago, I worked as a children’s library assistant in Pittsburgh, PA. There was a child around eight or nine years old who came into the library on a regular basis. One day, she discovered that I was a writer. Each time she made a visit she asked, “Is your book ready, yet?” Each time she asked, I would have to say, “No, not yet. These things take time.”
Her response is one that stuck with me,
“That’s ok, I will wait.”
For any writer out there on the path to publication, it is so important to know that your readers are waiting for you. We often have zero control over how long that wait will be, but what we do have control over is the effort and work that we put into reaching our goal.
So, keep writing.
Your readers are waiting.
Imaginary Friends: Did you have any imaginary friends growing up?
Not that I remember! I did have plenty of Barbies and dolls, and I played house with cousins and friends. I started writing at a young age (around 1st grade), so I suppose my imaginary friends were the characters I created back then.
Balancing Acts: How do you balance the emotional highs and lows of writing and publishing?
Rest. I must admit, I am not great when it comes to resting and relaxing because my mind is always on the go! But to have balance, I know rest is essential, or burnout will occur. I try to rest by reading, spending time with family, and traveling. Rest also looks like taking a walk in nature or getting much-needed sleep. So, to balance those emotional highs and lows, it always helps to take a step back.
The publishing industry can be tough, even when you have an agent and editor. When rejections come in, I allow myself to feel the hurt and perhaps I even have a good cry (I have one a few days ago!) then I shake it off and get back to work.
The best part of this career is meeting amazing kids at libraries and schools. Their words, smiles, and the need they have for great stories keep me grounded.
Nature’s Muse: How does the natural world influence your writing? What other interests might we see in your books someday?
Writing in nature is a huge part of my process. I feel my imagination expands when I write outside, or when I go for a walk to clear my thoughts. Maybe it’s the air, the birds, the sun, or the clouds, but it helps me to figure out what I am truly saying between the lines. As a kid, I was fascinated by astronomy, I even wanted to be an astronaut at one point. I would love to one day incorporate astronomy into my stories.
Literary Dreams: What's a dream project you haven't tackled yet, but would love to in the future?
My dream project is to finish a middle grade that I have been working on for years. It is a story of culture, friendship, and community. I would love for this story to one day be acquired. When that happens, it will be one of many dreams fulfilled.
Advice for Beginners: What one piece of advice you wish you'd received when you first started writing?
Early in my career, I had no clue where to start with writing for kids professionally. I reached out to author Jonathan Auxier. It turned out that we were in the same graduate program, only years apart. His books have had great success, and I wanted to know how I could get my stories into the hands of a publisher.
His words stuck with me,
“Read everything.”
Read books in your genre and out. Read books that are best sellers and the books no one talks about. Reading is so much a part of the writing process. It’s essential.
To my newbie writing self, I would say you are on the right path. Keep going!
Fan Moments: Would you share a memorable encounter with a fan of your work?
One of my favorite moments happened during a preschool storytime. A young child came up to me, and when I asked, “What is your favorite part from the story (Fly)?” Instead of saying her favorite part, she demonstrated by standing on her tiptoes and acting as if she was taking flight. It was the sweetest moment I hope to never forget!
Storytelling Magic: What do you believe is the most important element of a great story? And how do you come up with new ideas?
For me, the most important element of creating any story is to begin. After you start, finish the story! I am an author who gets caught up in the logistics of character, dialogue, setting, plot, etc., and this often keeps me from putting the end on a story. Currently, I am on a journey of not revising as I write because I know that I cannot truly edit any manuscript if it is not complete.
As I am writing, if new ideas come, I write them down on paper (and hopefully remember where I placed it!) but often I type the idea in the notes folder of my phone for easy access. When I finish a story, I come back to the other ideas that were brewing.
Website: The photos on your website are amazing! Did you use a professional photographer? With marketing costs so high, what suggestions do you have for other writers and their websites?
Thank you! For a while I used a picture my grandmother snapped as we went for a walk years ago. I loved that photo (an iPhone can do a pretty good job), but I realized the importance of having professional headshots. The current headshot was taken by a professional photographer, https://www.chanelnicoleco.com, located in Louisville, Kentucky. She had a great deal at the time, which helped lower the cost of marketing. I also looked for affordable options for websites to share more about myself and my work. Squarespace is a great option for a professional website with built-in templates at a cost-effective price.
Auction: Two of your books went to auction- how exciting! Would you please explain what this means to new writers and what you felt during that period?
I am honored to bring Opal Watson: Private Eye to life in book form! This podcast series was originally written by Natasha Tarpley. I was presented with the opportunity to create the series in novel format, and during this process, multiple editors were interested in purchasing the story. Ultimately, the story went to one editor, Ben Rosenthal, at HarperCollins, who was incredible to work with and helped me bring a fully rendered Opal to the page.
Book one of Opal Watson: Private Eye will hit shelves in April of 2025. I am so excited for readers to meet Opal in this format and to see how she and her friends navigate a historical mystery within her apartment building, leading Opal to question her own origins.
Connections: How can my readers help support your writing adventures?
I would love for readers to follow me on social media: Instagram: @britjanee, Twitter: @janeebrittany, Facebook: Brittany Janee
You can also visit my website and sign up for newsletter updates: www.brittanythurman.com
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Expanding the Celebration of the National Book Festival to Kentucky
I will also be at the following book events this fall!
- Cincinnati Children’s Conference- Keynote Speaker
- The Louisville Book Festival
- The Kentucky Book Festival
- Books by the Banks, Cincinnati
You can also support me by bringing me to your school! If you are a teacher or librarian, I would love to visit your school and share my journey with your students.
I am a fan of travel and
I truly believe no location is too far.
On a Personal Note: What interesting aspect of yourself don't we know that you would like to share?
I love history, especially historical photographs. I collect old photos of my family, and I'm always trying to dig into our history. One day, years ago, I was walking down a street in my hometown of Louisville, Kentucky, when a historic sign caught my eye.
It was for the Western Branch Library,
the first library in America,
created by
and for Black America.
This library came out of a need for Black citizens to have a safe place.
After researching by visiting the library archives and speaking with its librarians, I realized literature did not exist about the Western Branch Library and its history. I wanted that to change. In early 2020, I began to write a picture book that became The First Library: The True Story by and for Black America, illustrated by Cozbi A. Cabrera. The First Library will arrive in Winter of 2026, published by HarperCollins.
I am so excited for this piece of
American history
to be known across
the globe and for the world
to have access to this vital history!
Wow - Brittany! I am so thankful that your voice is out in the world and continues to shine.
Brittany's journey is what we writers hope for because it's filled with valuable lessons and heartfelt moments that resonate deeply with all of us. From her childhood inspirations to her quirky writing rituals, Brittany offers a glimpse into the life of an author who is passionate about storytelling and representation. Her dedication to her craft and her willingness to share her experiences make this interview one to read again and again.
From the brilliant writer's mind of Brittany, remember the importance of reading widely, finding a writing routine that works for you, and staying connected to your readers. Brittany’s advice to keep writing and know that your readers are waiting is a powerful reminder for all writers to persevere despite the challenges.
To support Brittany and her work, follow her on social media, check out her upcoming events, and consider inviting her to your school for an author visit. I will be taking a page from Brittany's book and continue to write, create, and share our stories with the world.
And as always...if you'd like to be featured on Teazurs Blog, reach out to me on Instagram, or email me at angazur @ gmail. com.
Wishing your writing adventures are fun and playful!
Write~on,
Angie
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