Very few people know that I sleep upright, like a horse. I also eat two bags of oats for breakfast everyday and I can count to ten simply by tapping my feet.
2. What is your nickname?
I’m not sure I’ve ever been given a proper nickname, but I do fondly remember my father often calling me “Hey you!”
3. What is your greatest fear?
Not being able to come up with a clever answer for this question.
4. Describe your illustration style in ten words.
“Any child could do better with one arm tied behind his back.” Is that more than ten? I lost count after my left horseshoe fell off.
5. Tell us five positive words that describe you as an illustrator.
Upright, well-groomed, jaunty, civilized, breathing.
6. What book character would you be, and why?
If I could be any character, I would like to be a bookmark; preferably one with scratch ‘n sniff kittens on it. That way no matter what book you read, I’ll always be there, holding your place ‘til we meet again. And I’d smell like fresh kittens too.
7. If you could time travel, what year would you go to and why?
If I could go back in time, I’d love to go back and revisit 1997. That was the year I lost my bookmark, the one with the scratch ‘n sniff kittens on it, and I’d sure like to know where I left it.
8. What would your ten-year-old self say to you now?
“Where’s the solid gold house and rocket car? Is this all a children’s book illustrator makes?!? Oh well, at least you’re not a rodeo clown. Yet.”
9. Who is your greatest influence?
If I can remember how to answer honestly, I’d say that distinction clearly goes to Richard Scarry. Not that he’s influenced my artwork (I WISH!), but rather his books influenced my decision to eke out a living in children’s publishing. It may not be the easiest way to make a buck, that’d be counterfeiting, but it’s definitely the most rewarding. Unless you play the lottery.
10. What/who made you start drawing and painting?
I’m afraid I only have myself to blame for that, unfortunately. Trouble is, no one or no thing can make me stop, either!
11. What is your favourite word and why?
Today it’s “rutabaga.” Yesterday it was “pelican.” I can’t be 100% certain, but I have it on pretty good authority that tomorrow’s favorite word just might be “Iroquois.” Why? What’s yours?
12. If you could only read one book for the rest of your life, what would it be?
Seeing as I still have yet to finish the first book I ever started, I should hope to complete The Poky Little Puppy sometime before my 87th birthday or the return of Halley’s Comet, whichever comes first.
Stephan Britt is an American artist and illustrator who has illustrated numerous books for children. His latest picture book, Normal Norman, is written by Tara Lazar and published by Sterling Children's Books. Visit Stephan's website and Facebook page for more information about his books and artworks.
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