#TuesdayTalk with Richard Van Camp. His new board book, We Sang You Home, is on shelves now!
Tell us a bit about your book.
We Sang You Home is my fourth board book. This is every parent to be’s wish, prayer and song: that Baby arrives safely and in a good way..
What was the catalyst for your story?
I wanted to add to my three books with a new song for babies and a reminder of how sacred each child is. I do believe in the power of prayer and I love the idea of both parents and Baby praying and singing for and to one another.
What was it like to see your story come alive visually?
I’ve been wanting to work with Julie Flett for several years and to have a second book out with her is a joy. I believe her work in We Sang You Home compliments Little You perfectly. I’m so grateful to her.
What are the challenges of writing for or within a series?
This wasn’t a challenge as this song came from the deepest part of me. Our son is will turn 2 this month and it’s such a joy to see this being of pure love and pure play grow and explore our world.
What was your favourite book as a child and why?
I loved Where the Wild Things Are because of the art and the message: magic is everywhere and you can be swept away at any time.
In your opinion, what makes a compelling story?
Intention: writing baby books comes from a pure place and a genuine wish for humanity, the four legged, the winged ones, those that live in the water, the air and for the healing of Mother Earth and all future generations.
Does your book have a niche or specialty market?
I love speaking to families, schools, and giving keynotes. It’s a joy to remind everyone about the sacred, dancing child within everyone.
Do you gravitate toward a certain genre or type of writing?
The story is the boss so I work in all genres.
What types of conversations do you hope will come out of your book?
That readers will be reminded of the miracle of every child and the Great Mystery of Life.
Tell us a little known or interesting fact about yourself.
I collect Star Wars fan art and things that glow in the dark.
Richard Van Camp is a proud member of the Dogrib (Tlicho) Nation from Fort Smith, NWT, Canada. A graduate of the En’owkin International School of Writing, the University of Victoria’s Creative Writing BFA Program, and the Master’s Degree in Creative Writing at the University of British Columbia, he taught creative writing at the University of British Columbia, worked as a creative-writing and storytelling instructor with the Emily Carr University of Art + Design and was the writer in residence at the University of Alberta for 2011 and 2012 and at MacEwan University in Edmonton, Alberta, in 2013 and 2014. His novel The Lesser Blessed is now a movie with First Generation Films. For more information, visit www.richardvancamp.com. Follow him on Twitter @Richardvancamp.