Get to Know Author Nicola Connelly

Tell us all about My Dad is a Bear!

My Dad is a Bear is a celebration of fathers. It describes the many different traits that fathers have from appearances to behaviours. The book shares the lovingness and important influence fathers have on our lives illustrated through a bear and cub relationship.

 
Where did your inspiration for My Dad is a Bear come from?

My father is truly a bear at heart. He was my inspiration. He has many bear tendencies including fishing, big bear hugs and he loves to have his back scratched. 

What was your favourite childhood book?

I have so many! I vividly remember by mother reading to me the Little Golden books. I also enjoyed reading and listening to The Magic Faraway Tree.


Do you have any writing rituals?

I enjoy writing outside, surrounded by nature. Taking my note pad and pen with a hot coffee and sitting on a park bench to write. 


What do you enjoy most about writing?

The freedom to express oneself. I enjoy being creative and using my imagination. It takes me to a place of wonder and delight. 


You are a primary school teacher – do you ever use your experiences from teaching for your writing?

Absolutely! I am blessed to have constant inspiration all around me. There are many moments in the classroom and playground that I think would be a great idea for a story.

 
What drew you to writing picture and board books specifically?

As a teacher, I see the magic that children’s books have on students and how they captivate their minds. I believe these books bring a sense of happiness and stimulate children’s imagination through illustrations and rich text. 


What do you like to get up to in your spare time?

I enjoy visiting my local library in Eltham, walking in nature, writing, cooking and spending time with family and friends.


How did writing My Dad is a Bear differ to writing Is It The Way You Giggle?

My Dad is a Bear is about a loving relationship between a father and child. Is It The Way You Giggle celebrates the differences in all children and acknowledges that we all have unique qualities and talents.

 
Tell us an interesting fact about yourself!

I have just recently learned how to make macarons. Macarons are little cookies made with almond flour. They are very addictive.




Thank you to Nicola for sharing these wonderful answers! We fancy a macaron or two now...
You can find Nicola on her website: http://nicolaconnelly.com

My Dad is a Bear

Charlie's dad is tall, round and soft. Sometimes he growls. Could he be a bear? Luckily for Charlie there's one thing bears do best.

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