Author Interview with Nancy-jo Funaro

The DMS was lucky enough to interview  Nancy-jo Funaro , author of the children's picture book Grandma Says... Dream Green. We recently reviewed this educational and colorful book on Margo's Musings , and It was fun to share our thoughts about it and hear yours! We are excited to learn a little bit more about the story behind the story. So, without further adieu... take it away, Nancy-jo! 


What inspired Grandma Says... Dream Green? 


I have had the fortunate opportunity to visit our 50 states. Each state's terrain is so different. With my camera, I have tried to capture a small moment in time to keep as a memory. Litter has and still is a pet peeve of mine. I wanted my photographs to inspire young children to appreciate what is around them and not to litter. Keep it Green and Clean.

How long did it take you to put together Grandma Says...Dream Green? 
It was a year long process. 
What are some of your favorite books from childhood? Were there any specific authors who inspired you?

The Little Engine That Could by Watter Piper, Rebecca of Sunnybrook Farm by Kate Douglas Wiggin, Bambi by Felix Salten, The Jungle Book by Rudyard Kipling, The Call of the Wild by Jack London, Little Women by Louisa May Alcott among others.  


What is your favorite vegetable?

I have two, corn on the cob, with lots of butter and salt. I also love Portobello mushrooms sautéed with sweet red peppers.


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

This is a tough question. Every state I have been to has wonderful environmental qualities. After traveling, I always find Connecticut is my home. Family is here.


You are the designer and photographer, and your sister, Mary-beth, writes.  How do the two of you collaborate on books? 

Once I had decided on the theme and the photographs for the book, my talented sister, Mary-beth Boughton, wrote the lively poems to each double page spread. Being a graphic designer, I had control of the pages. I researched a printer and self-published the book.



What is your absolute favorite texture?

Clouds are my favorite texture, no you can't feel them, but, because of the sun, wonderful shapes are constantly forming and changing. I enjoy looking up to the sky and imagining what figure or animal I might find to take a picture of.

Where can we purchase your books?

Author Website ☞ call me personally at 203-430-5681  ☞   RJ Julia Booksellers  768 Boston Post Road, Madison, CT 






Read our review! 








FEAR NOT THE UNEXPECTED