Happy Thursday Critters! Today we have a fantastic interview with an author all the way from Australia! I’m thrilled to have her with us today to talk about her newest book, CEDRIC’S TAIL, illustrated by Agnès Ernoult, published by Yeehoo Press, which came out this past March.
So without further ado, please welcome Amani Uduman!
Where do you live?
I live in Melbourne, Australia. I’m originally from Sri Lanka, but my family migrated to Melbourne at the age of six.
How many years have you been in publishing?
I have been writing for over twelve years. During that time, I have published numerous titles in the non-profit sector and been included in several anthologies.
How did you first get published?
My first publication was in an online children’s magazine where I wrote short stories for specific age groups.
I also self-published an Ebook called, ‘Snakes in Class,’ which is a fun story about a school incursion featuring snakes.
Do you write full-time?
I would love to write full-time. However, with life being extremely busy as it is, I endevour to write whenever I get a chance.
Sometimes, I’ll scribble notes on a piece of paper if inspiration suddenly comes to me and use it later as springboard for a new manuscript.
What inspires you to create picture books?
I loved reading picture books as a child. Particularly, if they were humorous and quirky.
Some of my favourite authors include Jon Klassen, Enid Blyton and Aaron Blabey.
It’s a joy to reread stories that bring a smile to my face.
What surprised you the most working as an author?
The biggest surprise for me being an author was the fact that learning never ceases to exist. There is always room to refine my craft, and it’s exciting to venture into different genres of writing.
What is your favorite thing about being an author?
My favourite thing about being an author is being able to contribute to the world of children’s literature. To have children and adults alike, enjoy my work and discuss their favourite stories with one another.
It’s also exciting to see my story with the accompanying illustrations for the first time. The illustrations add a whole new dimension to my manuscript, and the illustrator does an amazing job of bringing the story to life.
What do you find difficult working as an author?
The most difficult aspect of being an author is finding the time to write. And to write without distractions. However, I find that little tasks can be put aside to focus on my passion in life- which is to write!
What do you do to shake the rust off or get new ideas?
I find walking helps me with new ideas. Generally, inspiration comes suddenly and from now nowhere in particular. So, when a new idea does come into my mind, it’s often a pleasant surprise.
I have even woken up in the middle of the night to record a new story idea.
Anything you are habitual about when it comes to creativity?
A nice cup of green tea is always a must!
Can you share a positive experience you’ve had in the Kid Lit community?
The Kit Lit community is one of encouragement and support. I found that joining organisations such as SCBWI, attending festivals and writing workshops helps build a supportive network of people, with whom I could share my love of writing.
Recommended reading?
There are so many books which I could recommend. However, if I had to pick my top five children’s books/series. they would include the following:
This is not my hat by Jon Klassen.
The Bad Guy Series by Aaron Blabey.
The Faraway Tree Series by Enid Blyton.
I’m Coming to Get You! by Tony Ross.
Stephanie’s Ponytail by Robert Munsch.
What has been the highlight of your career thus far?
My career highlight is collaborating with talented illustrators, editors and publishers who have been encouraging and supportive of my work and provided valuable feedback on how to make to make my story shine.
I’ve also met diverse authors at writing conferences and festivals who share a love of writing and children’s books.
What is something you wish someone had told you when you first started writing?
I wish that someone had told me that writing is a continuous growth journey and not to feel too dejected by the dreaded rejection letter. There are various reasons as to why work can be rejected, and it’s simply a case of dust yourself off and move forward. There was one particular manuscript of mine which made it to an acquisition meeting, and although the editors loved my work, there was simply no room on their list for another picture book.
Can you tell us about your newest book?
Cedric’s Tail, illustrated by Agnès Ernoult, published by Yeehoo Press, is a light-hearted story about a little boy who wishes for a tail on his birthday after examining his pets. When his wish finally comes true, Cedric must deal with the advantages and limitations of having his tail.
What’s up next for you?
I will continue to write stories as I visualise new ideas. I’m also editing and revising several manuscripts which I have previously completed. I usually take a long break from my work, so I can get back to my stories with a fresh pair of eyes.
Anything else you’d like to share with aspiring authors and illustrators?
I think it’s important to follow your heart and write what inspires you and what you believe in. Even if a story isn’t published, relish the experience of immersing yourself in the creative process.
And last, but not least, favorite 80s movie?
Pretty in Pink is my favourite 80’s movie of all time. Jon Cryer is absolutely hilarious!
Huge THANK YOU to Amani for stopping by Critter Lit today! Congrats on CEDRIC’S TAIL!
Amani Uduman is a children’s author and poet. She studied at Deakin University where she graduated with a bachelor’s degree in Applied Science (Health Promotion) and a postgraduate degree in Teaching (Primary and Secondary).
Having worked as primary school teacher, her favourite lessons involved reading and writing stories with her students. Over the years, Amani’s interest in children’s fiction continued to strengthen and she found herself immersed in the world of writing children’s literature.
Amani has published many titles within the non-profit sector. Her books include levelled readers, picture books, and non-fiction texts. Her books are translated into different languages including Lao and Tetun.
Amani enjoys writing stories which are both humorous and quirky. Her favourite children’s authors include Jon Klassen, Aaron Blabey and Enid Blyton.
FOR MORE INFORMATION about Amani, visit her online or follow her on social media:
Twitter: @TarsheemAmani1
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/amani.uduman/
Website: www.amaniuduman.com.au
ORDER THIS BOOK To order a copy of CEDRIC’S TAIL, click here.
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