Award-winning First Nations author Sally Morgan and CBCA award-winning illustrator Karen Blair’s picture book, The Midnight Chew, is a playful, rhyming adventure that’s perfect for younger readers who love dogs. Read on for a Q&A with Sally Morgan.
What inspired The Midnight Chew?
I once owned a very small dog with a very large appetite.
One night I set a large cooked chicken on the table, then went to fetch the vegetables. When I turned back, my dog was on the table dragging the chicken to the edge with his very determined teeth. Before I could reach him, he flung it onto the floor, jumped down and began eating.
What was your favourite part of creating this book?
Remembering what happened made me laugh.
The chicken was larger and heavier than my Chihuahua, but he rose to the challenge with gusto. It was an impressive feat and a tribute to the power of determination.
What was the collaboration process like with illustrator Karen Blair?
When I first saw examples of Karen’s work, I knew she’d do a brilliant job. When writing picture books, you have to be able to let go of your words and respect how the illustrator brings the story alive through images.
Picture books are always an equitable partnership of words and pictures.
What do you love about the power of rhyme?
I love rhyme. I love that it can be funny, sad and powerful in ways that ordinary prose often isn’t. Working in rhyme forces you to dive into a dictionary in search of the best words for the story. It’s a great way to learn something new.
What do you hope readers take away from Boofa Boy Jones and Skippy Gillespie’s antics?
A good time, a love of dogs, a desire to write a story about a special pet in their own life, being able to share with a friend.
Describe this book in three words.
Fun, adventurous, fast.
ABOUT THE AUTHORS
Sally Morgan was born in Perth, in 1951. She has published books for both adults and children, including her acclaimed autobiography, My Place. She has also established a national reputation as an artist and has works in many private and public collections.
Visit Sally Morgan’s publisher’s website
Karen Blair is an award-winning Western Australian author and illustrator of nearly 20 children’s books. Her books have been published in eight countries, and she has illustrated for some of Australia’s most acclaimed authors. She has worked as a primary art teacher and creates books from her home studio in Fremantle where she lives with her husband, two children and small dog.
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