Jeff Kinney has kids worldwide begging for his book series, The Diary of a Wimpy Kid, taking him to number 1 on the New York Times Bestseller list. Jeff's uncanny recollection of his childhood helped him relate to the day to day challenges kids face.
Jeff's books are not just entertaining for kids but also for adults, in fact, perhaps parents could parent better if they read his books. I related to children with much more understanding about there daily trials, the childhood trials I had forgotten, after I read Diary of a Wimpy Kid. Teachers highly recommend Jeff's books as a way to encourage children to enjoy reading.
Jeff stopped by The Global Townhall to tell us how he did it and to offer some wise advice for children.
Gabrielle Reilly: How do you structure your writing schedule to complete a book?
Jeff Kinney: I spend many months just generating jokes. Then, I toss out about 90% of what I've done and keep the 10% that's good enough for print. After that, I move into writing the narrative, and then I start drawing. It took about eleven years to write the first three books, but now, I have to turn each one out in about nine months.
Gabrielle Reilly: How do you get inspired to write a book?
Jeff Kinney: Getting inspiration is hard! Usually, I'll just get an idea from everyday life, and write it down. It's much harder to sit down and think of funny ideas.
Gabrielle Reilly: How were you even conscious of all the nuances that a child that age lives through daily?
Jeff Kinney: I have a good memory for what it was like to be a kid. I'm often surprised when I hear that people can't remember their childhood. I feel like I remember every bit of mine.
Gabrielle Reilly: You talk quite a lot about becoming famous in your book. Did you really expect to be this successful or is it somewhat of a surprise?
Jeff Kinney: I didn't expect my book to become published, much less be successful! It was a shot in the dark for me. I just wanted to put in my best effort in case someone liked my work.
Gabrielle Reilly: Do you have a new book in the pipeline?
Jeff Kinney: Yes, I'm working on a fourth Diary of a Wimpy Kid book now, and then I'll be revisiting the Do-It-Yourself Book. I'd like to add a lot to that one!
Gabrielle Reilly: What positive or motivational quote can you share to help improve the lives of our readers?
Jeff Kinney: I'd like to encourage kids to put in their best effort in any work that they do. Even if it's an unpleasant task, like doing homework or washing the dishes, life is much more rewarding if you give it your best!
Kids love Diary of a Wimpy Kid? Just did a great interview with bestselling author, Jeff Kinney. http://www.theglobaltownhall.com/jeff_kinney
Thanks, ditto! Gabrielle Reilly
