- Please introduce yourself so that the readers will get to know you better.
A1. My name is Stephanie C. Watterson. I am a biracial author and editor, specializing in neurodivergent/disabled children’s stories. I am the author of Septopus. A couple fun facts about me: my favourite colour is marigold yellow, I’m adopted and I can’t live without something soft.
- What is the inspiration behind your book “Septopus”?
A2. While travelling to Cuba (my first big trip overseas) I visited the beach and watched a gorgeous pelican drop down and collect fish from the water. Shortly after that, I wrote out my first draft of Septopus in my journal. Over the years it has transformed into a different version, but the themes are still the same.
- When did you realize you want to be an author?
A3. Good question. I never thought I would make money as an author. It was actually my then boyfriend (now husband) who asked me early in our relationship what I would do if I didn’t have to worry about income. That idea transfixed me, eventually I took a couple programs in publishing and editing as a result I knew I was home. I think as a child, I loved books and words, but being an adult helped me realize I am capable.
- Please tell us something about your book “Septopus”?
A4. Septopus is a story about a seven-tentacled octopus. The fantastic Doha Koma illustrated the pictures, and this is my first children’s book. There might be more coming, just wait!
- For which age group is your book “Septopus” suitable for?
A5. 4-8 years, but anyone who is open-minded and up for an ocean adventure.
- What is your favorite Quote?
A6. Do you mean my favorite quote of the book? Or in general? My favorite quote from a children’s book is from Where the Wild Things Are “Let the wild rumpus start!”. I seem to remember that always prompted a fit of silly dance moves between my sister and I as well as our parents during the reading of the book. My favorite quote in general is “You are a child of the universe no less than the trees and the stars; you have a right to be here.” from the poem Desiderata. (It was written over a 100 years ago.)
- What do you like the most about your country?
A7. The nature here is spectacular. I live on an island; any way I walk I am always near the beach. And failing the beach, I can find a forest to roam in.
- What suggestion do you want to give to parents of little readers regarding a reading habit?
A8. Let them pick the books they want to read. Read them everything with them. Encourage them to think about what something looks like in their minds more than trying to sound it out.
- What does literary success look like to you?
A9. Being able to make a difference in other people’s lives. To leave a legacy. To make sure the next generation coming up has the tools and openness to carry on being open-minded. And hearing that my book makes another person feel loved and like they have learned something.
- Lastly, who is your inspiration in life and why?
A10. People who aren’t afraid to try new things like smashing a stereotype. People who did what they wanted and weren’t afraid of. People who lead with love and forget the hate. People who take what they have and make their madness into magic (and with sparkle!).
Buy Septopus on Amazon
Sassy Reviews 