The Dream Keeper by ANNA WALKER is a magical, beautiful picture book of a turtle going on a magic journey to a dream island, perfect for any child struggling to sleep. Read on for a Q&A with the author.

What inspired you to create the world of the forest of dreams?

When in Seoul many years ago, I was preparing to present a series of workshops and from the hotel window I could see a mountain shaped like the back of a giant turtle. I imagined the turtle watching over me. Time passed and when I found the drawing again, I wondered about the idea of a child having a creature that protects them. A creature that helps the child know that the courage they need is within…and so began The Dream Keeper.

Why did you choose a turtle as the Dream Keeper?

A turtle is quiet, gentle and watchful, which seemed like the perfect traits for a Dream Keeper, needing to bring a dream to a child across the sea.

Do you start with the words or the illustrations first when creating a book like this?

I always begin with an image. For me, being able to escape into the world of the imagination and spend time there is the most enjoyable part of making a story. The Dream Keeper took seven years to create, which is the longest time I have spent on a picture book. Sometimes I wonder if the resolution was delayed on purpose, because I didn’t want to give up my time in the forest of dreams.

How do you think stories can help children deal with fears at bedtime?

Stories are important as a way of recognising you are not alone. A story can help children understand that they can be brave even in small ways. Our imagination can heighten fear but can also be a source of courage. For me, stories are a way of seeing beyond my surroundings and opening the mind to possibilities of adventure beyond my fear.

Where do you usually get your ideas for stories?

I gather ideas from nature, from imagination, and simple moments in day-to-day life. I keep a visual diary where I draw things I’m curious about, moments that amuse me and words that spark a connection. My visual diary is often the place that I find drawings and words begin to weave together to form the fabric of a story.

What message do you hope children take away from the story?

I hope a child might think about their own Dream Keeper and know that their imagination can provide a lantern in the dark when needed.

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Anna Walker is an illustrator and author of picture books including Florette, a New York Times Best Illustrated Book, A Life Song written by Jane Goodwin and Mr Huff, shortlisted for the Prime Minister’s Literary Awards and winner of the CBCA book of the year Early Childhood. Using traditional mediums, Anna creates stories inspired by the quiet and sometimes joyful details of life. The Dream Keeper is her first Walker book. She lives in Melbourne.

Visit Anna Walker’s website here

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Read more on the Walker Books website.