TALK: Giles Paley Phillips

#picturebooks #writing #interview 

Giles Paley Phillips is a picture book writer from East Sussex. His debut book 'THE FEARSOME BEASTIE' won The People's Book Prize, Bizziebaby Gold Award and Highly Commended in The Forward National Literature Award and was Shortlisted for The Rotherham Children's Awards and The Heart of Hawick Children's Book Award. He spoke to StoryWorld about his new book, life in a band, and the magic of picture books.

Hi Giles! Tell me about Princess Stay Awake:

Princess Stay Awake is a book all about a little girl called Layla, who won't go to sleep at bedtime, I think it's a subject a lot of parents can resonate with.

You began as a musician. How did the change to picture book writer come about?

I've played in bands for many years, but when I found out my wife was expecting our first son, I decided I really wanted to do something creative for him.

 

What is special about picture books? Why do kids (& adults) love them?

I think because picture books are one of a child's first experiences of literature, also it's a special time when you can sit together and share the experience of reading.

Which writer/artist are you most inspired by?

There are several writers that have always been a big influence, but primarily Shel Silverstein and Edward Gorey are ones that I always feel inspired by.

 

What’s the best writing advice you’ve ever heard?

Start early, what I mean is, if you have any kind of interest in writing, then pursue it, don't put it off till tomorrow.

Are you working on anything at the moment?

I've not written anything for some time, I decided to have a break and do something else creative. I recorded a single with my band Burnthouse, so I've been enjoying getting back into music. http://burnthouse.bandcamp.com/track/the-sun-makers

 

Thanks Giles! You can buy Giles' stuff right HERE! Or click on the images above.