Suzy Davies's Blog: Book News - Posts Tagged "reimaginings"

"The Ugly Duckling by Hans Christian Andersen
Offensive tale of persecution and body fascism in which an ugly-looking bird is given a hard time wherever he goes. The only birds who take him in are a group of wild ducks, who are then promptly slaughtered. He just about survives a wretched, lonely winter and is willing his own death when he is saved by a sudden (and wholly unconvincing) transmogrification into a swan.

Rewrite: Joins Ugly Duckling Support Group; campaigns successfully for physically challenged ducks' rights; is ultimately accepted for what he is rather than conforming to meaningless notions of grace and beauty."

I recently read with interest an article in "The Guardian" that argued for a new kind of children's book. One which was not so bleak and pessimistic. Perhaps one that told a story with a happy ending?

My fairy story, "Luna The Moon Pig," was inspired by my old favorite children's books with Paddington Bear and Kipling's "Just So" stories. It is also a reimagining of "The Ugly Duckling" and one which allows a pet pig, Luna, to be a super-pig and just a pig, at the same time. My idea for the ending is that she is who she is! The difference is in her own new-found self-confidence! Although Luna does not join a pigs' support group and campaign for pigs' rights, Maria, the lead human character, is on a mission to raise awareness of piggies! Luna The Moon Pig shows that animal rights should be extended to include all animals who are sentient creatures. I hope you enjoy the ending when you read my book! Here are my ideas about what makes a great ending!

In my view, a good ending requires a number of things all working together - namely:-

Resolution

The plot should all come together at the end in such a way that obstacles or problems the characters face are resolved. If the ending is magical, it should have enough of a real dimension to allow readers to suspend disbelief.

Development

The ending should show forth how characters are transformed by their journey in the world of the book. After all, life only makes sense to the extent that we are in process and find meaning through our ability to connect with others and help to shape their lives, as our interaction with others shapes ours. There should be a sense of each character having agency and some power to create their lives.

Satisfaction

A convincing ending and one which resolves things and shows the transformation of characters will
satisfy. The best endings for children's books are ones which appeal to our need for some justice in the world, and a sense that the good guys can, and do, win!

A Surprise.

What I like to see is a surprise ending in a fairy tale which still satisfies all other criteria to make it the best ending. An ending should never feel incidental or tacked on. It should be holistic both to plot and character. A well-written book will give clues to the ending, but at the same time surprise and delight!

A Beginning.

For me, every ending contains a beginning. It is essential that an ending leaves a reader satisfied but full of anticipation about the next chapter ... the beginning of a new book in the series!

Who or what first inspired you to be a musher?

My father was a musher back in the day. When my sister and I were 7, he bought us our first sled dogs from a kennel in Anchorage.

How did you feel when you won The Junior Iditarod?

I was super-excited, and very proud of the dogs.

Which sled dog is your favorite, and why?

That’s a hard decision, they are all so special. If I had to choose one, it would probably be Sky. I raised her from a pup and she is one of my best lead dogs.

What advice would you give to a would-be musher?

It’s all about the dogs. Take good care of them, and they will take care of you.

Have you ever met a wild animal on the trail? What happened?

Yes, a moose attacked us on the trail once. It was very scary. The moose ran up to the team and stomped at a few of the dogs. We were very lucky no one got hurt.

Who is your closest musher friend? How did you meet him or her?

Probably our neighbour The Redingtons; my father raced dogs with them when he was younger.

Friendships in the mushing community are important. How do you keep these friendships when you compete with each other?

It's not hard. Everyone is helpful and supportive of one another.

Do you listen to music when you are dog sledding?

Yes, usually on long training runs.

I've heard you play the violin? What's your favorite piece to play?

I don’t really have a favorite, but I do play a lot of hymns.

What are your dreams and wishes for your future?

I think I’d like to be a teacher.

What is your favorite place in Alaska, and why?

I really like Hatcher's Pass. They have some great hiking trails there, and it’s a good place to snowboard in the winter.

Suzy Davies Books, Higher Middle Grade, Teens, Fairy Tales, Alaska, Reimaginings, Michele Bourke, Illustrator, New Release, Coming Soon, Amazon