Author Interview – Christine Skippins
Author of the children’s book The Magic of Misty Nook: Santa in a Camper.
I am very pleased to welcome Christine Skippins to my blog this week, and we’re chatting about her children’s book series, The Magic of Misty Nook.
Helen: Welcome Christine. I am very excited to learn more about your series of children’s books set in Misty Nook. Tell us about the lastest, Santa in a Camper
Chrstine: The Magic of Misty Nook, Santa in a Camper is a fun romp through a Christmas party with current and past residents of the Misty Nook animal haven. Dogs and cats abound, and much fun is had by all! Each year, the elves that run Misty Nook (including Santa, himself and managed by Woody the Staffy dog) animal rescue throw a lavish party and invite past residents of Misty Nook to show they have not forgotten those alumni dogs and cats that have gone on to forever homes. I love that all the animals have such diverse personalities in the way they enjoy the festivities, and the separate feasts for dogs and for cats that allow their particular preferences to shine through. This book is a cute read, and would be great for a child with a bit longer attention span than other, pure illustration books with a line of text for each picture. The lovingly crafted portraits of the animals are great, though I would have liked to have seen some depictions of the party space. The book closes with Santa taking off in his camper van to deliver presents all over the world, after handing out gifts to the cats and dogs at the party. It’s a great, simple story for Christmas.
Helen: Your characters are bright and with lovable animal characters. Who is on the cover of Santa in a Camper?
Christine: So why shouldn’t our pets have a Fabulous Christmas party? The cover depicts Woody one of the main characters in his Santa outfit.
Helen: What made you write this particular book?
Christine: The book is inspired by volunteering at a local animal rescue centre and showcases the ways in which the staff enrich the lives of the animals that stay there. It also highlights how they stay in touch with their animal family even after they are rehomed.
Helen: How wonderful. That is a lovely message to remind children of the work that goes on behind the scenes in an animal rescue center. Who is your protagonist and why did you write her/him?
Christine: My Misty Nook stories all revolve around a Magical Animal Centre run by Woody, a Staffordshire Terrier who is the chief elf. He’s inspired by a real-life dog called Woody, who sits at the reception of the animal centre where I volunteered checking everyone in and out, and nothing happens without him knowing!
Helen: My Mum had a staffie. They are the most adorable dogs and so affectionate. I can imagine Woody running the centre. How do you get the ideas for a new book?
Christine: Inspiration is everywhere, and I have a head full of story ideas for both Adult and Children’s stories, so watch this space!
Helen: Typically you write and illustrate children’s book. Have you ever thought about writing in other genres?
Christine: So far, I have been focusing on writing children’s fiction about animals because it combines my passions and skill set. However, as my writing style has developed, I am also writing some adult fiction short stories to explore that genre as well.
Helen: Now Santa in a Camper is out, what are you working on next?
Christine: I’ve just completed a science fiction short story for a writing challenge, and now I’m going to work on my mother’s story. Born in 1937 in London, her early years were lived through the horrors of WW2. It’s my aim to bring her memories of dodging the bombs and being evacuated to the countryside alive. This story, based on fact, will preserve her memories for subsequent generations.
Helen: That is so exciting. I imagine that project, enshrining your mother’s memories in print will be so special. When did you realise you had a passion for writing?
Christine: I have always enjoyed drawing and writing, and creating children’s books has allowed me to develop as both an author and an artist.
Helen: Are you a pantser or a planner? Do you write free form, or do you have a framework you stick to?
Christine: My first draft is always a sensory word dump, and its from that that my story evolves.
Helen: Which element of the writing process do you find most challenging and why?
Christine: With a creative mind, my biggest challenge is checking and rechecking my text, as I have an emotive rather than a detail-oriented eye. I also struggle with knowing when the text is ready for publishing because every time I read and reread, I always find a way to tweak it!
Helen: Do you listen to music when you write, if so, what do you listen to and why?
Christine: I love music and listen to the radio when I am working. Writing is a lonely business, and it helps me to have real life in the background.
Helen: Every writer experiences self-doubt. How do you overcome the fear and the little voice in your head to keep writing?
Christine: I have a small group of amazing advisors, friends and family, who constantly remind me that I am good enough to put myself and my work out there with the best.
Helen: It’s so good to have a support system. Writing can be an emotional rollercoaster. What is the most useful piece of writing advice you’ve received, and by whom? And what advice would you give aspiring writers?
Christine: “Show, don’t tell when you write” is the best advice a retired literary agent gave me. Believe in yourself, and put your best work out there, but be open to feedback, your first book is the start of your journey, where each one will be better than the one before.
Helen: I know most writers are great readers as well. What is your favourite book and why do you like it so much?
Christine: My Reading Choices vary, but I like reading books where I can relate to the location. For example, a rom-com set on a Greek Island or in a French town with markets and cafes or a detective story set in Brighton, the city near where I grew up.
Helen: Thank you so much for joining me today. Just to close us out, what is the best thing that has happened to you since you began writing?
Christine: On publication, my Grandson Harry proudly takes each one of my books to school and shows off my picture on the back of the book to anyone who will listen. To me, that is a priceless pride and memory.
About the Author
Christine SkippinsChristine (Chris) Skippins enjoyed a lengthy career in finance before she turned her attention to writing and illustrating. It wasn’t long before she discovered her niche.
Her involvement with a local animal rescue centre, which she joined to contribute to a community charity, sparked her inspiration. The animals she encountered and the dedicated team that rehabilitated them motivated her to create “The Magic of Misty Nook” series.
Now, Chris animates delightful animal characters through her stories, showcasing how frightened and lonely creatures find love and compassion at Misty Nook.
As a teenager, Chris worked at a pet store and often attempted to take in rabbits, guinea pigs, and even puppies that needed homes—much to her father’s initial reluctance. Eventually, her father relented, and Whiskey the Collie was welcomed into their family. Over time, Whiskey and many other pets became an integral part of Chris’s life.
Born in Chichester, England, Chris is a mother to an adult son and daughter, as well as Rizzo the Spaniel. She’s also a grandmother to Harry and Sienna—her wonderful grandchildren—and Ivy and Rolo—her ‘granddogs’.
Purchase Christine’s book, Santa in a Camper
Link to book on Amazon UK: eBook | Paperback
Link to book on Amazon US: eBook | Paperback
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If you enjoy epic fantasy then check out my award winning Sentinal series, which is now complete. If you like fantasy books with a touch of romance then you will love my SoulMist series, start with SoulBreather. Prefer Dystopian Science Fantasy? Then try Harmony. Start the adventure and stay for the journey.
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