PB KidLit ALERT!
Hello and Welcome Back, Amazing Writers, Illustrators and Readers! Today, I’m thrilled to introduce you to an extraordinary illustrator and writer joining us on Teazurs Blog! Her name is Amber Owen, but her readers know her by the enchanting pen name, Zilla Brownsley Asterplume. Isn’t that name just dripping with magic and creativity? I’ve always toyed with the idea of a pen name, but now I’m seriously considering it—how fun would that be? I first discovered Amber’s work on Instagram, and let me tell you, her illustrations stopped me in my tracks. Her characters are brimming with life, and they radiate something truly special—an alchemy of authenticity, warmth, curiosity, and truth. Her work doesn’t just invite you in; it enchants you. Oh, and as a proud Tiger in the Chinese Zodiac, I felt like her book was calling my name. Naturally, I had to order it—can’t wait to dive in! So, let’s give a big, cozy welcome to Amber (aka Zilla)! Grab your favorite beverage and join me in celebrating her incredible talent and spirit. Welcome to Teazurs, Zilla! We’re so excited to have you here. Let’s dive right in!
What’s the story behind your love for tigers?
Tigers are just the coolest. That said, the reason this book has a tiger in it is just because I had drawn a picture of one that I liked and then wrote the first draft of the manuscript for the book based on that picture the next day.
Do you still get messy while creating?
I am not messy. In fact, I cannot work if my studio is a mess. I think I might be an anomaly in that way. Most of my illustrator friends are just the opposite.
Your mother encouraged you to draw on your bedroom walls—what would young Zilla be drawing if she had a blank wall today?
I wouldn’t say she encouraged me to draw on the walls, it was more of an artistic compromise ; ) I think I drew a lot of elephants and tulips back then. Now that I’ve remembered that, I might draw some of those today for fun.
Dario starts his day “hungry for possibilities.” What would it be if you could magically make any possibility happen for him (or any of your characters)?
All of the characters in the book have challenges. The grocer needs more hands to stock the shelves, Mr.Townie needs to get out more, etc, and Dario suggests an animal to aid each of them. The pink dodo bird on the big spread belongs to the reader, though. The dodo has the best vantage point to view the story. I wish for all young readers that they have the “vantage point” to view and engage with every kind of story, by way of books.
What’s the most unconventional place you’ve sketched on? Any favorites?
I sketch on everything. I don’t really have a favorite.
You’ve said the quick sketch is your favorite part of the process—why do you think that first, unpolished version is so special to you?
They are always the best. I don’t know why. I guess its because...
...it is the moment you capture it
out of the ether.
They rarely make it into the book for me because some part of the anatomy is wonky, or the angle doesn’t fit the background or something. But they always inform every other drawing going forward.
Teaching special needs students and working in software sounds like an exciting shift! How did these two roles impact your storytelling?
The software company paid my bills better, and even sent me to an SCWBI conference, which is how I met my agent. Teaching special needs students (btw, I actually work with adults with IDD/special needs now) is just the most rewarding occupation one can have. It pays in other ways.
How does Zilla make “crazy delicious popcorn”? We’re intrigued and need details!
Put the salt IN the pan with the olive oil
before you add the kernels.
Game changer.
If you could introduce your tiger character to Jim Panzee from Grumpy Monkey, what kind of adventure might they have together?
Tigers love to sleep and Jim seems like he could use a good nap in most of his books. Not adventurous, but we could all use a nap once in a while.
Which song lyrics are you most famous for singing “hideously incorrectly”?
All of them. I usually just sing about whatever I am doing right over the top of the melody.
(**Begging you...Please, please, please record these and put them on Instagram with your illustrations of your characters doing exactly what you are singing about!)
What’s the most memorable reaction you’ve had from a reader, young or old, about Sometimes, a Tiger?
More than once, a dinosaur-loving child has thanked me for making such a cool book about dinosaurs. I always sign the books to them, “Hope you enjoy this book about dinosaurs.”
What advice would you give to young artists seeking their unique style?
Your style will show up… when it shows up.
A watched pot never boils,
but your style WILL show up.
If your illustrations had soundtracks, what types of music or sounds would we hear in your artwork?
The hurdy-gurdy, probably.
How do you hope Sometimes, a Tiger will make kids see “what could be” in their lives?
I don’t really want to make kids see anything. I hope it opens up conversations with each other and with the grown-ups in their lives. And entertains them. I feel like I grow as a human when I least expect it, and often, it happens while my heart is open because I am reading a book, watching a movie, or listening to music.
You just announced that Random House has bought a new book, To Knit a Ghost. Can you tell us about it and when it's coming out?
I've been writing for years, and I'm getting close to having something ready for agents/publishers. How long did it take you to get to where you are today?
The silly answer is, of course, 55 years. The one I think you are looking for is, well, I joined SCBWI in 2018? I think? That is when I started considering the possibility of being a published author/illustrator. But I had been making books my whole life.
What is your advice for writers and illustrators about patience and progression in the publishing world?
No matter where you are in the publishing journey, you will always need patience. Period.
Even when your dream editor emails you
and wants to work with you...
(squeal! This happened this year, more to come…)
...everything moves slowly. Use the time to walk your own path. You’ll pick good stuff up along the way that will come in handy when the time is right.
What has SCBWI done that helped you, and why should other writers and illustrators join?
I found all of my critique partners through SCBWI. It really is a one stop shop to gain the knowledge you need to make your project into a strong pitch. You can find all the information for free on the internet, but you can access it all in one place with SCBWI.
What is your favorite class, book, or tutorial that has helped you with your artwork - you know, taking it to the next level?
My critique group. I am surprised they even let me in. They are soooooo talented.
Where will you be next so my readers can get a book signed and meet you?
Here in Colorado, I will be at many schools. SOMETIMES, A TIGER has been nominated for the Colorado Children’s Book Award, which will be announced in February 2025, I think. But anyone can email me at aco@asterplume.com for any reason. I will respond.
Is there anything else you'd like us to know about you, your books, and your art?
I suppose you might want to know my real name… it’s Amber Cowan Owen. But I always say, Amber could never make a book by herself. Zilla is my children, my husband, my critique partners, my agent, my editors, my art directors, and truthfully, my readers all rolled into one name.
How can my readers help support you on your writing journey?
Read anything you want. Find ways to read anything you want. And I will keep writing and drawing, so you don’t need to worry about little old me.
What fantastic advice, Zilla! Reading widely is such a gift—and so are you and your books! This writer’s humility and authenticity make me adore her even more. So here’s how we can cheer her on: buy her books, order her incredible art, leave those sparkling star reviews, and show up for her book signings. Living a creative life takes courage, and every bit of support fuels that spark of creativity. Let’s keep her fire burning bright! Amber (Zilla), thank you for sharing your wisdom, your personal stories, and your heart with us. Your work makes the world a better, brighter place for kids and adults alike. Together, let’s keep bringing the good, the bold, and the amazing from deep within ourselves out into the world. Cheers to more magic, more creativity, and more Zilla Brownsley Asterplume!
If you'd like to support Amber (Zilla):
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