As a child, I was the only witness to an accident where a truck ran into a school overpass and I had to go to court and give evidence. It was rather scary!
2. What is your nickname?
Kammy
3. What is your greatest fear?
Losing someone I love.
4. Describe your writing style in ten words.
Simple, full of heart, warm, encouraging, hope-filled, authentic, uncluttered.
5. Tell us five positive words that describe you as a writer.
Passionate, committed, driven, particular, open.
6. What book character would you be, and why?
I'd like to live on Wibbly Wobbly Street (by Trudie Trewin) because it looks like so much fun.
7. If you could time travel, what year would you go to and why?
2010 My dad died suddenly at the end of 2010 and I'd love to go back and get to spend some time with him again. I miss him!
8. What would your ten-year-old self say to you now?
Don't be afraid of being creative. You know that spark you feel when you are writing or singing or making up stories? Hang onto that and don't ever let anyone extinguish it.
9. Who is your greatest influence?
My husband, kids and extended family. They keep me grounded in reality but also fill me up with ideas for new stories.
10. What/who made you start writing?
I've always loved words and had a strong desire to write a book, but I had no idea how to go about getting something published. I read lots of picture books when I was a primary school teacher, so when I was home with my eldest son I decided to take some writing courses and see if I could write a book. It turns out I could! And I did :)
11. What is your favourite word and why?
Discombobulate. It's just a fun word to say.
12. If you could only read one book for the rest of your life, what would it be?
The Bible. Some of the stories are amazing and there's always something to cheer me up and encourage me.
Karen Collum is an Australian picture book author whose titles include Samuel's Kisses (re-released as Blow me a Kiss) and Fish Don't Need Snorkels. Her latest book, Big and Small, is illustrated by Ben Woods and published by Windy Hollow. Visit Karen's website or Facebook page for more information about her books and writing. Karen also runs a blog, The Picture Book Place, where she analyses her favourite picture books.
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