Read a Q&A with Kate Knapp, author of Ruby Red Shoes

Kate Knapp is an Australian author and illustrator. Her studio, Twigseeds, has given flight to a world of colourful characters, including the charming and much loved aware hare, Ruby Red Shoes. Kate creates all her artwork by hand, using pencil, ink, watercolour … and a bit of magic.

Today, Kate Knapp is on the blog to answer a few of our questions. Read on!

Kate Knapp

Tell us about the next Ruby Red Shoes book, My Wonderful Grandmother!

KK: My Wonderful Grandmother is a picture book in which Ruby shares many delightful and comical moments that make Babushka Galina Galushka a wonderful grandmother. From fluffy slippers to fairy gardens, there are precious Babushka moments that every child can relate. Although categorised for young readers 3+, there are quirks and whimsy to entertain all ages.

I wanted to create a book that captures a little of the special relationship between a grandmother and child. However, the book is not solely homage to grandmothers. I dedicated this book “To everyone with the heart of a grandmother” which includes every person who guides, nurtures, teaches and cares for little people with that very same essence.

Did you ever think that Ruby Red Shoes would become as beloved as it has?

KK: I didn’t have that expectation of Ruby herself. I wanted to create a character as a gentle friend for people and a beautiful world into which they could escape. Hers is a world of contemplation and connection, of magic and innocence, where simple things such as gardening, communing with the stars and daydreaming are nourishment for the soul. For children, Ruby’s world is a peaceful retreat from the fast–paced world around them. For adults, it is a place to revisit the gentle innocence of childhood. I believe this is why Ruby Red Shoes has become much loved.

Where do you get the inspiration for each new story?

KK: I am constantly finding inspiration in the people around me. My grandmother was the inspiration for Babushka Galina Galushka. Aunty Pinky and Aunty Nettie the knitter are my real aunts. The character Samantha is my sister and Hugo is my cousin. The moment those hare-like ears are drawn on, friends, family, even Hare Majesty the Queen become part of Ruby’s world. Nowadays, when I travel I see the world through Ruby’s eyes. Anything and everything can be Ruby-fied–a street sign, something red, a custom or a tradition–the possibilities are endless.

What’s the nicest thing a fan has ever said about your books?

KK: There is a steady stream of post in Ruby’s letter box. We often receive photos of children dressed in bunny ears, stripes and spots heading off to Book Week. We also receive photos of Ruby Red Shoes-themed parties where my illustrations are printed onto cakes and party paraphernalia. Very impressive. Some of the favourites are those of sleeping babies cuddling up to their Ruby plush toy. These are adorable. Often we are sent letters telling of a recent trip where Ruby Red Shoes goes to London and Paris are used as a travel guides, visiting each landmark in the paw prints of Miss Ruby herself.

Possibly the most treasured messages are those heartfelt ones from parents who say how Ruby has made a positive difference. One parent in particular wrote to me to say that the Ruby books encouraged her child with learning challenges to become interested in reading. This fills me with happiness.

When writing, do you come up with the illustrations and images first or the story?

KK: Each of my books begins with the initial idea followed by the storyline. Then with all the images in mind, I refine the manuscript. I write descriptions of the illustrations alongside the words. Initially in my imagination the book idea is often quite grandiose. Through the planning and editing process the book changes shape and emerges as something more suitable for the audience from the initial idea. Then the fun part. I take a very deep breath, say goodbye to my friends and family and embark on a very long journey–the illustrations. The illustrations alone can often take an entire year.

Which authors do you most admire in the world of children’s literature?

KK: I grew up with John Burningham’s books: Humbert, Mr. Firkin and the Lord Mayor of London, Cannonball Simp, Aldo. They inspired me to write and illustrate. My love of travel blossomed when I was given Around the World in 80 Days in 1975 when I was 6 years old. It was so quirky and similar to an illustrated travel diary. It contained notes about each country, and a jumble of illustrations obviously created whilst travelling. I’m not sure if it was really a children’s book but I found it fascinating and the varied style of illustrations were beautiful. I still have my copy and read it often. Sadly, it’s no longer in print.

What book do you most often recommend or give as a gift?

KK: The Velveteen Rabbit. It’s a fable for people of every age. It’s the story of a stuffed rabbit’s desire to become real through the love of his owner. It makes me teary every time.

Where can we expect to see Ruby Red Shoes go in the future?

KK: Ruby Red Shoes is soon to share her Christmas with you. I love Christmas, so I want this book to be memorable and magical. The story follows Ruby, her chickens and Babushka Galushka as they busy themselves making gifts and decorations amongst other things in the lead up to Christmas. After that, Ruby may travel again. We shall see.

Thanks Kate!

—My Wonderful Grandmother (HarperCollins Australia) is out on the 23rd of March, and is available for pre-order here.

My Wonderful Grandmother

A Ruby Red Shoes Book

by Kate Knapp

"What's wonderful about my grandmother is she wears x-ray spectacles. She can see deep inside me and knows just what I'm feeling."

Ruby Red Shoes is an aware hare who lives in a colourful caravan with her grandmother, Babushka Galina Galushka. Ruby loves her grandmother very much and thinks she is wonderful for all sorts of very special reasons. What's wonderful about your grandmother?

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