TB Marmaduke: Children's Book Author Q&A

Join TB, Sam, and Amy as they answer kids' hilarious questions about smells, characters, and more. Get ready for a smelly superhero and a surprise cow on the toilet in this entertaining and interactive session!

Introduction to “Kids Ask, Author Answer”

Kids Ask, Authors Answer is a fun YouTube series where kids get to ask children's book authors anything they want!  The author does not know the questions in advance, and it's all filmed LIVE.  Your kids can participate in future episodes too! In this blog, we dive deep into one such episode, featuring TB Marmaduke, the celebrated author of "Pee-Ew," a book that with keep your kids giggling and asking for the "smelly chicken book".

Meet the Authors: Behind "Kids Ask, Author Answer"

Amy Doslich and Samantha (Sam) Howard-Els

The show is hosted by Amy Doslich and Sam Howard-Els, both accomplished children's book authors. Amy Doslich is known for the "Hannah Banana and Mary Berry" series, while Samantha Howard-Els is recognized for her "Mungo" series and "Tiny Boo Halloween" book. Together, they create a vibrant and welcoming atmosphere where authors share insights and anecdotes, answering the questions sent in by their young fans.

Delving Into the World of Pee-Ew

TB (T-Bone) Marmaduke has written three books, but in this episode the focus is on one book in particular "Pee-Ew"!

Humor is a critical tool in children's literature. It keeps young readers engaged and makes the storytelling process enjoyable for the authors themselves. TB, known for his playful humor, shares how even something as simple as the term "Pee-Ew" became central to his book’s theme. This kind of humor strikes a chord with kids who find joy and laughter in the simplest of expressions. By incorporating everyday humor—such as jokes about a pet rooster crowing early or playful banter about stinky smells—authors like TB ensure their books are both relatable and enjoyable for their audience.

Surrounded by farms, pigs, chickens, and a rather noisy rooster, TB’s environment is an endless source of inspiration. Such rural settings make their way into his books, lending authenticity to his stories. For instance, the smell of manure and the dynamics of farm life add a distinctive layer of reality to his storytelling. Children living in urban areas can experience and visualize a different way of life through books that incorporate such vivid rural details.

Authors often draw from their personal humor and life experiences. TB recounts how the idea for "Pee-Ew" stemmed from hearing someone casually saying the phrase, and how his daughters participated in the book’s creation by providing their own Pee-Ew chants. Such anecdotes reveal how the line between real life and creative storytelling can blur, resulting in stories that are genuine and filled with life.

Engaging With Young Readers: Questions and Inspirations

Engagement with young readers is crucial. Kids’ questions range from why certain phrases like "Pee-Ew" are used to more general inquiries about the authors' favorites. This playful back and forth is not only entertaining for kids but also spurs authors to think even more creatively.

For instance, kids asking about their favorite smells or whether cows actually sit on toilets (they do not, but the imagery sure is fun) provoke laughter and a deeper understanding of how the everyday can be transformed into engaging tales. It is through these interactions that authors get to see the impact of their creativity.

But arguably the best part of the interview is the off-the-wall questions the kids come up with such as  "would you rather have a dog that poops all day or really stinky breath?"

Looking Ahead: The Future Projects and Inspirations

In terms of future projects, TB hints at a new adventure that will focus on more pleasant smells. This idea came directly from engaging with his young readers. Details are kept succinct, but the emphasis on incorporating good smells—perhaps even something barbecue-scented—reflects the ongoing influence of his reader's questions and interests.

Acknowledging the creative demands of writing and illustrating, TB mentions taking a brief respite over the holidays. This break allows for rejuvenation and the cultivation of new ideas, ensuring that the next project is approached with fresh energy and creativity.

Conclusion

Through engaging discussions, children’s book authors share the joy and intricacies of their craft. Storytelling, especially for children, is an evolving process driven by curiosity, humor, everyday life, and a deeply rooted imagination. Authors like TB remind us that the magic of storytelling lies not just in the tales themselves, but also in the wonderful, often humorous journeys that lead to their creation. As these authors continue to connect with their readers, the enduring charm of children’s stories promises to inspire and entertain future generations.

Want to grab a copy of Pee-Ew?  You can find it here*: https://amzn.to/3OGF9k7

You can also find Amy and Sam's books here:

Amy - Hannah Banana and Mary Berry series*: https://amzn.to/4eLoZ3G

Sam - Mungo series & Tiny Boo*: https://amzn.to/3CBx9OF

Want your kid to participate in the next episode? Make sure you are subscribed to our YouTube channel to see who the next author coming soon is, read their book (always a free option!), and then send your questions to KidsAskAuthors@yahoo.com.

*These are affiliate links. If you happen to buy anything on Amazon through this link, it won't cost you any extra, and I will get a small amount! Thank you for your support! :D