The DMS was lucky enough to interview Giles Paley- Phillips, author of the uniquely spooky story, The Fearsome Beastie. This classic tale of terror was our pick for Margo's Musings this past Friday, and I have been sharing the scare all week. We would like to thank Giles for telling us his story behind the story. So, without further ado, take it away, Giles...
1) What inspired you to write The Fearsome Beastie?
I have two young sons who are really into monsters at the moment, and I wanted to write something like the sorts of stories I read as a child, like the Grimm Brothers and Revolting Rhymes by Roald Dahl.
2) How long did it take you to write the story?
It took about a day to write, then a bit of tweaking here and there.
3) What are some of your favorite books from childhood? Were there any specific authors who inspired you?
Like most people in my generation, I loved everything by Roald Dahl, But also stuff by Maurice Sendak, Shel Silverstein, and Edward Gorey.
4) Where did you get the idea for Gran?
It's basically my Grandmother!
5) How did you meet the illustrator, Gabriele Antonini?
The Publisher chose the illustrator they felt fitted with my text, and that was Gabriele.
6) What is your favorite classic monster?
The monster in Not Now Bernard By David Mckee.
7) What is the recipe for beastie stew?
10 stone of Rump Beastie steak, some bones for flavor, and garnished with some juicy eyeballs.
8) Where can we purchase a copy of The Fearsome Beastie?
Amazon, Waterstones, WHsmiths, everywhere really!
Great choices for the inspirational authors!
ReplyDeleteThanks, Kelly! ~ F
DeleteI love the authors that he mentioned. I have read all of their books. I cannot believe this book only took about a day to write. Wow! The cover looks cool.
ReplyDeleteHi Flex, I know! Isn't that amazing??? Thanks for stopping by today : ) ~ F
DeleteI think Edward Gorey's stuff is interesting and I really liked Fablehaven- I just started The Beyonders by Brandon Mull last week, it's cool so far.
ReplyDeleteLet me know how it is! ~ F
DeleteJames and the Giant Peach by Roald Dahl was one of my favorite stories when I was little. I just bought a copy of The Fearsome Beastie- it was interesting to read this interview.
ReplyDeleteHi Elaine,
DeleteI LOVE the story of James and the Giant Peach- I also liked the movie a lot. I thought the aunts were perfect : ) Thanks for stopping by! ~ F
thanks...this is an interesting interview!
ReplyDeleteHi momto8, Thanks for stopping by! ~ F
DeleteHi Heidi, That's great that you're checking out The Fearsome Beastie! Thanks for stopping by. My favorite poem is Lazy Jane by Shel Silverstein : ) ~ F
ReplyDeleteI think it is cool that the author wrote the book for his kids. Cool interview!
ReplyDeleteTrey- I agree! :) His kids must feel so special!
DeleteNice interview!
ReplyDeleteThanks, Donna!
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