Shut Up Like a Good Kid - Author Interview

Enter a whimsical world where childhood meets the bittersweet reality of adulthood.

Shut Up Like a Good Kid: Sad Stories for Sad Children is a captivating compilation of beautifully illustrated tales that delicately explore the untold struggles and hidden depths within us all. Perfect for those yearning to reconnect with their inner child while embracing the complexities of grown-up life, this enchanting book will leave you longing for more, reminding us that even in sorrow, there is a glimmer of hope.

A collection of short illustrated unfortunate stories for adults who are still trapped in their childhoods.

Shut Up Like a Good Kid comes to the bookstores this winter.

Nora Drew is a writer and illustrator based in New York. With a passion for storytelling and a love for the whimsical, she has crafted a unique and engaging world in her book. Drawing inspiration from her studies in Cinema in Italy, Nora brings a cinematic quality to her writing, creating beautifully illustrated tales that explore the comicotragic reality of adulthood.

In addition to Shut Up Like a Good Kid, Nora has also penned another novel titled "Descendants Gamma." While this novel is yet to be published, it is highly anticipated and expected to be released in 2024. Nora's ability to delve into the hidden depths and untold struggles within us all is evident in her work, and readers eagerly await the opportunity to experience her storytelling once again.

Nora Drew's writing not only allows readers to reconnect with their inner child but also encourages them to embrace the complexities of grown-up life. With her unique blend of storytelling and illustration, Nora Drew has established herself as a talented and imaginative writer, leaving readers longing for more of her captivating work.

Can you tell us about your inspiration behind "Shut up Like a Good Kid"? What led you to explore the intersection of childhood and adulthood in your stories?

Growing up as a girl in the Middle East, I experienced firsthand the challenges and expectations placed upon young girls to conform and remain silent. This book is a reflection of my own journey and the struggles I faced in navigating the intersection of childhood and adulthood in a society that often silenced the voices of young girls. I wanted to shed light on the complexities and hardships faced by children in such environments, while also exploring the resilience and strength that can emerge from these experiences. My book draws inspiration from my experiences living in Iran, encompassing various aspects such as my immediate family, educational environment, societal dynamics, and daily incidents. It blends elements from my vivid childhood imagination, personal fears, and haunting nightmares with recent events in Iran; horrifying acts like targeted killings of people based on the positioning of their headscarves, the plight of those who yearn for change amidst a malevolent regime and face bullets aimed at their eyes, and the tragic incidents of schoolgirls being poisoned within Iranian educational institutions.

How do you approach the process of combining your writing with visual art? How do the two mediums influence each other in your work?

Combining writing with visual art is an integral part of my creative process. I approach it as a way to enhance and deepen the narrative. When I write, I often have vivid images in my mind, and translating them into illustrations allows me to bring those visions to life. The two mediums influence each other in a symbiotic way, as the words inspire the visuals, and the visuals, in turn, inspire the words. It's through this combination that I strive to create a more immersive and impactful storytelling experience for my readers.

"Descendants Gamma" sounds intriguing. Can you give us a sneak peek or hint about what readers can expect from this upcoming novel?

"Descendants Gamma" is an upcoming novel that jumps into a world where humans coexist with genetically modified beings. In this story, readers can expect a thrilling exploration of identity, power dynamics, and the blurred lines between humanity and their place in this universe as a fraction of a whole. Without giving too much away, I can hint at a gripping narrative that follows a kid who is a creator of a small world. They navigate their place in a society that both fears and relies on understanding where do we belong to. It's a sci-fi/fantasy that challenges traditional notions of what it means to be human and raises thought-provoking questions about our relationship with the universe.

What draws you to explore these themes, and how do you hope your readers will connect with them? Exploring hidden depths and untold struggles is something I'm drawn to because I believe it's essential to acknowledge and understand the complexities of the human experience. Through my writing, I aim to shed light on the universal struggles we all face, regardless of our backgrounds or circumstances. By delving into these themes, I hope to create empathy and connection among readers, allowing them to see themselves reflected in the characters and stories I present. Ultimately, I want to evoke a range of emotions, from introspection and reflection to hope and resilience.

As an author, what do you hope readers take away from your books? What emotions or thoughts do you aim to evoke through your storytelling?

As an author, my ultimate hope is that readers will be deeply moved by my books. Through storytelling, I aim to evoke a range of emotions, from joy and laughter to sadness and contemplation. I want readers to feel a connection to the characters and their journeys, to be able to see themselves in their struggles and triumphs. Ultimately, I hope my books leave readers with a sense of empathy, understanding, and a renewed appreciation for the complexities of the human experience.

Can you share any advice or insights for aspiring writers and illustrators who are looking to create their own unique worlds and narratives?

My advice for aspiring writers and illustrators looking to create their own unique worlds and narratives is to embrace their individual voices and perspectives. Don't be afraid to explore unconventional ideas or challenge societal norms. Your experiences and unique background can bring a fresh perspective to your storytelling. Also, immerse yourself in different forms of art.

Shut Up Like a Good Kid will be available for pre-orders exclusively on our website very soon! STAY TUNED!