John Coy Interviews Diane Adams

Diane with her Grandma in the photo. Note Diane’s stylish go-go boots.

Diane Adams, who is a writer and illustrator, is a delight to talk with. She lives with her husband in southern California and has a son who lives in Utah. Her husband is in his last year of teaching and he and Diane have had extensive discussions about what they will do when he retires. One of them would like to get an RV and drive around the country. The other one prefers staying in hotels. Can you guess who prefers what?

1. How do you feel about having two books come out in 2012? Do you know the months? Can you tell us about them?

It's actually looking like one will be out in Spring of 2012 and the other in 2013, as Chronicle is searching for just the right illustrator. This is a good thing in my view, as it gives me more opportunities to focus on each book individually. I'm basically just thrilled to have two books coming out!! The book with Peachtree Publishers is the second in a series about a little girl named Emily Pearl, who is testing her independence and trying the patience of those around her. The book with Chronicle is also a story of growth for a young child, but more from the viewpoint of the family. I seem to be drawn to this theme as I watch my child find his way in the world at age 23. A mom is always a mom!

2. You describe yourself as a writer, illustrator, and roller coaster rider. What's the best roller coaster ride you've been on? What's the one you want to go on next?

My best roller coaster ride would have to be Indiana Jones. It's just the right amount of scary for me. I've never been on Splash Mountain, so that has to be my next one. I'd also like to try the big one at California Adventure. Now if you had asked me my favorite ride, it would have to be It's a Small World, but none of my family will go on it with me. Is it because I sing along with the characters?

3. How's writing and illustrating like riding a roller coaster?

There's a John Prine song that goes something like, "That's the way that the world goes round, you're up one day, then the next you're down, there's a half an inch of water and you think you're gonna drown, that's the way that the world goes round." If you're a writer or an illustrator, that song should make a lot of sense!


4. When you write a picture book, do you envision yourself illustrating it? Have you engaged in negotiations with publishers over this?

I'm actually in negotiations right now for a book that I'd like to illustrate, but I love what Kevin Luthardt and Nancy Hayashi have brought to my first two works, and look forward to seeing what the next two books look like. It's sort of like opening a Christmas present when I see the illustrations matched to my words. I enjoy being a part of a team, especially with such creative and talented artists.

5. You worked with the writer Stephanie Bodeen on A HOME FOR SALTY. What is she really like to work with?

The stories I could tell you... Actually, I didn't work with Stephanie at all, except at book signings which were spectacularly fun!! She was off writing her blockbuster novels while I worked with two wonderful wildlife experts in capturing the habits of the inhabitants of the San Pablo Bay National Wildlife Refuge. It was a fantastic experience.

6. Do you have any advice for new writers?
I do have some advice for new writers, and that is don't isolate yourself from your peers. Join the SCBWI, attend conferences, find a book group. It's important to be supported by others and to support others. It's what makes the process more fun. Time alone is necessary, but be a part of the world around you. That's where the magic happens, at least for me.

7. What’s your favorite type of candy bar?

Hershey with Almonds!