What
is your story about?
When Maggie, the Magpie Goose and Eric Echidna
return from Italy back to Mapleton, they discover new happy memories. From old
tractors to sweet, syrupy pancakes, art to waddling ducks, this picture story
celebrates friendships, community, home and belonging. The book concludes with facts about animals and the
places from the eastern water dragon to the purple swamphen. Overseas visitors
can learn about the long nosed bandicoot and marbled velvet gecko.
I
have written teacher notes to accompany the story. Intended for families and
children ages 3+, Arriving Home, is available for purchase at the
Mapleton library or from Marg Gibbs, for $10. (m.j.gibbs@bigpond.com)
What
inspired you to write this story?
When my husband and I returned from a trip to
Italy, I thought how lovely it was to come home to a beautiful part of the
world in Mapleton. It occurred to me that arriving home means feeling a sense
of belonging and love. I thought about the attractions we have that make the
Sunshine Hinterland a special place. I used animals and places to show the fun,
beauty and appeal of our country towns.
What influences
helped in making decisions while writing?
Using popular tourist names like Maleny Showgrounds
and The Barn on Flaxton helped me to shape the story. Mapleton Lilyponds park
is a place where my grand- children play, therefore it seemed important to
include it in the story. I love Australian animals and thought children could
identify with them easily. Our native animals are popular overseas too.
How did the
collaboration work with the artists?
I approached a group of women one day who come
together regularly at the Mapleton library to paint, sketch and do botanical
art. They agreed to take on the story. We then had to co-ordinate nine
different styles to create the vision for the book. Watercolour scenes,
coloured pencil and ink resulted a vibrant Maleny Showgrounds, the wood ducks
crossing the road, and children playing
at the Lilyponds park.
What do you think
works well in the story?
Probably the variety of places the animals visit,
the scenery, plants and quirky conversations between Maggie and Eric. I hope
children enjoy the action and description of the animals, paying attention to
the hidden lizard on nearly every page. The story promotes the region as a
positive place to create happy memories. It is light- hearted and entertaining.
What do you want your
book to do for readers?
To enjoy making memories wherever you are. To
celebrate community and friendships. To pay attention and respect the animals,
flora and fauna. Mostly, I would like the book to bring a sparkle to someone’s
day.
How long did you
have to wait from the dummy draft to publication?
I met with the group to discuss layout, design and
art. It took five months and was published just before Christmas.
Tell us about yourself,
Marg as a writer.
I love connecting to children through story, poetry
and picture books. I belong to a writers group called The Round Table, attend
many literary conferences and workshops, write a blog, and share my love of
children’s books with my 10 grand- children who live in Brisbane. My trip to
the Bologna Book Fair in Italy was the highlight of 2019. I have published
poems in 2 anthologies and The Hinterland Times. I talk at primary schools
about authors and illustrators of kid’s books. Currently, I am working on a
manuscript for adults that will be self- published in 2020.
How
can readers learn more about you?
My
Blog www.themoderngrandmasmanual.wordpress.com instagram@marg_gibbs
Mob 0412362947
My new website is currently being revamped.
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