Ask the Author: Sarah Sommer
Answered Questions (6)
Sarah Sommer
The monster who makes things go missing.
Sarah Sommer
The world within Shel Silverstein's poetry. There is a poem of his that I can still recite to this day ("Tree House"). I imagine that visiting the fictional world of Shel Silverstein would be like visiting a museum, where around every corner you are shocked, amazed, and curious for an explanation.
Sarah Sommer
Animals at the Office reflects a culmination of my experiences working with co-workers and teams at various schools and offices. I would often notice the differences in our skills, interests, and approaches to getting the project done, and some of these traits seemed to fit into personalities that reminded me of animals such as the obedient dog. I wanted to write something that would still be a positive kid-friendly story but would also make the parents chuckle as they were reminded of an experience they've had with a particular character in the book.
Sarah Sommer
Real life is scary enough for me. That's why I write picture books.
Sarah Sommer
I like to take a break from that project for a few days and come back to it. Sometimes I'll have a revelation at the most random times such as when I'm driving. My goal is not to force it, but to let myself think on it instead.
Other times, I find I need to turn on that creative side of my brain that often is suppressed during the day while pushing through required daily activities, so I will listen to some music that I hope will evoke a memory or emotional response that will "activate" the other side of my brain.
Other times, I find I need to turn on that creative side of my brain that often is suppressed during the day while pushing through required daily activities, so I will listen to some music that I hope will evoke a memory or emotional response that will "activate" the other side of my brain.
Sarah Sommer
My next picture book book, Animals at the Office, is coming soon this Summer (2020). It tells the story of Gator's first day at his new office job and his efforts to try to fit in with his new co-workers. While I find the story relatable to parents who work office jobs, the story for the children reminds me of every first day (school, summer camp, daycare, playgroup, etc.) where you're a little nervous and not sure how to act but you want to fit in so bad that you consider being someone you're not. Plus, I hope some parents find the book to be vehicle to explain what "going to work" means and use the book to showcase the similarities between work and school.
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