Interview With Author Lil Rustle
Tell us about yourself and how many books you have written.
Hello! I’m Lil Rustle, a creative author and illustrator passionate about crafting books that ignite curiosity and bring joy to young readers. My pen name, Lil Rustle, evokes a sense of lightness and playfulness, much like the gentle rustling of leaves in the wind, which is reflected in my work.
With a background in architecture, I approach storytelling with a unique perspective, blending a deep understanding of colors and shapes into my creations. This background has greatly influenced my “Colors and Shapes” series, which includes three vibrant books: Colors in Circles, Colors in Triangles, and Colors in Squares. Each book provides an imaginative exploration of color and form, designed to inspire young minds and foster a love for learning. The series helps children learn about colors and shapes while encouraging them to observe and identify these elements in their environment.
What is the name of your latest book and what inspired it?
The latest book in my Colors and Shapes series is Colors in Squares. It builds on the engaging approach introduced in the first book, Colors in Circles. Colors in Circles was inspired by a childhood book that began with a simple concept, such as “A House,” and gradually added details like “A Red House.” This inspired my approach of starting with a simple object, like a red balloon, to introduce and explore colors and shapes.
In Colors in Squares, I continue this approach by focusing on different colors found in square-shaped objects within an indoor environment. This contrasts with the outdoor scenes depicted in Colors in Circles and Colors in Triangles. By exploring colors and geometric forms in diverse settings, this book aims to offer an interactive and enjoyable way for children to learn.
Do you have any unusual writing habits?
I often start by sketching and brainstorming the story simultaneously, allowing the illustrations and narrative to evolve together. Once I have a draft, I add rhyming text to complement the visuals. I then review and adjust the composition, cycling back and forth between the story, illustrations, and text until everything—story, visuals, and rhyme—comes together seamlessly.
At times, if I’m not in the flow of illustrating, I’ll focus on developing the rhyming text, and vice versa. This flexibility helps me maintain creativity and ensures that each element of the book aligns perfectly.
What authors, or books have influenced you?
Interestingly, I started working on my first book without direct references to other authors or books. However, my inspiration comes from a childhood memory of a book whose title and author I can’t quite recall. This early reading experience had an impact on my approach and creative direction, influencing how I integrate storytelling and illustrations in my series.
What are you working on now?
At the moment, I’m taking a pause to focus on marketing my books. As an indie author, it’s important to handle all aspects of promotion and visibility myself. Once I’ve made some progress in this area, I’m considering creating a special Christmas Edition of the Colors and Shapes series.
What is your best method or website when it comes to promoting your books?
I’m still exploring the best methods for promoting my books. Currently, I’m focusing on sharing through social media, running free eBook promotions, and participating in interviews, such as this one with Awesomegang!
Do you have any advice for new authors?
s someone who is relatively new to the field, I’m still learning and figuring out what works best. I would greatly appreciate advice from more experienced authors! However, one thing I’ve found valuable is to stay persistent and continuously refine your craft. I’ve learned that building an audience and navigating the publishing world takes time, so maintaining dedication and a willingness to learn are crucial.
What is the best advice you have ever heard?
The best advice I’ve ever heard is to stay persistent and continuously refine your craft. Persistence helps you push through challenges, while constantly improving your skills ensures that your work evolves and resonates more deeply with your audience.
What are you reading now?
I’m about to start reading Flatland: A Romance of Many Dimensions. A good friend recommended it and kindly lent it to me. I’m looking forward to exploring its concepts, as it might inspire further development for my future books.
What’s next for you as a writer?
I plan to continue writing and developing more books in the future. I’m excited to explore new ideas and themes, and I’m looking forward to expanding my Colors and Shapes series as well as creating new projects that will engage and inspire readers.
If you were going to be stranded on a desert island and allowed to take 3 or 4 books with you what books would you bring?
If I were stranded on a deserted island, I would bring:
1. Flatland: A Romance of Many Dimensions – Its unique exploration of dimensions and perspectives could ignite fresh ideas for both illustrations and storytelling.
2. The Great Paper Caper – This imaginative and creative story might inspire innovative approaches to writing and art.
3. Under the Spell of the Moon – This collection by great illustrators would provide both inspiration and education on various artistic techniques.
These books would offer a wealth of ideas and help refine my skills in both illustration and writing.
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