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Kelly DiPucchio had a pet goat when she was a kid and always bought her clothes from Sears catalogs. She thought she was going to become a singer when she grew up. Instead of a microphone in her hand, she holds a pencil, because she became an author.
She wrote the book I reviewed on Tuesday, Grace for President, and others, such as Zombies in Love. Several of her books, like Antoinette and Gaston were illustrated by Christian Robinson. I also interviewed him for the blog.
Kelly DiPucchio has even written a book with Queen Raina of Jordan, and others based on people she knows. This author could not get any cooler. She came to my school and did a presentation in front of the whole school. She even autographed my book. This is my interview with her:
Question: What tips would you give kids who want to be authors?
Answer: The best advice I can give kids who want to be authors is to READ! I’m still learning to become a better writer by reading good books.
Q: What message do you want kids to get out of this book?
A: I hope the message kids get out of Grace for President is that working hard and never giving up are what makes dreams come true.
Q: Why do you think diversity is important in children’s literature?
A: We live in a diverse world and our books should be a reflection of that diversity. All kids should have access to books that multiracial and multicultural.
Q: What books would you recommend for kids like me?
A: I would recommend any book that you’re excited to read. The beauty of books is there is something for everyone. When I hear kids say they don’t like to read I tell them they just haven’t found the right thing to read.
Q: How did it feel to write a book for a queen?
A: It was both an honor and terrifying! Well, not really terrifying but I was nervous. It was a big responsibility. I’m really pleased with how the book turned out.
Q: You mentioned a real girl named Grace asked the same question as the Grace in your story. How else are they alike?
A: They are both smart and ambitious!
Q: Are you more like Grace or Thomas in Grace for President?
A: I would definitely say I’m more like Grace. I had to overcome a lot of obstacles in order to get a book published. I was also never very good at spelling or soccer like Thomas.
Photo Credit: Tayler Stirrett
Elena Reads and Reviews 