Author Interview with Shelley Gill

The DMS was lucky to interview Shelley Gill. Fairday reviewed her book Big Blue, and it was great to share our thoughts about it and hear yours! We're excited to learn a little more about her story. So, without further ado... take it away, Shelley!

1) What inspired you to write Kiana’s Iditarod?

At the time I raced there were no books about the Iditarod, so I wrote one.

2) You have written many picture books. Which one took you the longest?

Gabe took maybe six months.  If I Were a Whale took two days and one editing pass.

3) Many of your book are based in or on the state of Alaska. What was your research process like for some of your books?

Most of my books come from life experience. But one I'm working on now-we'll call it Balto- has required two trips to Cleveland to look up old newspaper clippings, which are horrible resources, and interviews with four 90-100 year old women who were children during the serum run.

4) Was there any aspect of your research that was the most interesting?

So much factual info is lost.

5)  The Iditarod is a common theme in your books.  You have also raced in the Iditarod.  What can you tell us about your experience and what would you like kids to know about the race?

The Iditarod sled dog race is an epic adventure. It's not like you can just step onto the sled. You have to have really top-notch outdoor skills, you have to know your dogs. It's the toughest race on earth. But doing stuff like the Iditarod makes your life worth living.

6) You have lived in Alaska for over 30 years. What are some of the best aspects about living there?

Alaska, like everywhere else, is changing. It has always had a history of people coming there and taking what they wanted. Gold, furs, oil. I came there for a different reason. To experience real wilderness. Those two goals-to pillage and to ponder are not compatible.

7) What are some of your favorite books from childhood? Were there any specific authors who inspired you?

The Lion’s Paw  and White Fang were two of my favorite books. Authors: Jack London, Robert Service, and Hemingway.  

8) You have lived in Alaska for over 30 years. What are some of the best aspects about living there?

Alaska like everywhere else is changing. It has always had a history of people coming there and taking what they wanted. Gold, furs, oil. I came there for a different reason. To experience real wilderness. Those two goals-to pillage and to ponder are not compatible.

9)  You work with marine biologists who are studying whales. What can people do to help protect these beautiful creatures?

Protect their habitat. Every second breath we take comes from the oceans of the world. If we don't take care of the oceans- humans and whales will not survive.

NOAA Photo Library

10) If you could live anywhere in the world, where would it be?

Alaska, although it breaks my heart.

11) Shelley wrote Big Blue based on the experience she had with her daughter, Kye. Listen to her talk about whales and tell the story behind the story.

(She gives some background and the story about swimming with Big Blue starts at 2:18.)

12) Where can we purchase your books? Amazon: Shelley Gill