Q & A with Wednesday Kirwan

We had a chance to sit down with Minerva the Monster author Wednesday Kirwan and ask her about the inspiration behind the adorably rambunctious Minerva and some of her own childhood stories.

Minerva has delighted children and parents with her playful antics and mischievous spirit. How were you inspired to create her?

I do all of my best thinking while I am on long walks with my dog. One day, while I was walking to the park, I started thinking about creating a story around a little girl who was a bit of a troublemaker and needed just a little extra attention the way I did as a child. I had this thought in my head when at the park I met a brand-new Boston Terrier puppy named Minerva. She was spunky and brave, a bit of a rascal, but instantly lovable. I knew I found my story’s heroine! That day I rushed home and made my first few sketches of Minerva.

Is Minerva anything like you?

Minerva is very much like I was as a kid. I was the middle child in between my big brother, Alex, and my little sister, Molly. I had a big imagination that often got me into trouble. Fortunately, like Minerva, I also had very loving parents who knew exactly what to do and say to always make me feel special.

Where did you dream up the story in Minerva the Monster?

Halloween is my favorite holiday. As a kid, I loved dressing up and pretending to be something else, especially something scary. I thought Minerva might have some fun making a costume for herself and letting her imagination run wild.

What artistic influences have helped to create the vibrant and retro-looking illustrations for Minerva the Monster and Nobody Notices Minerva?

I have always loved the look of “Little Golden Books”. Some of my favorite children’s books were written back when my parents were kids. I collect retro children’s books now and look to them for inspiration. Some of my favorite artists, Gustav Tennegren (The Poky Little Puppy) Mary Blair (I Can Fly) and Eyvind Earle also worked for Disney, creating unique styles in their films that I look to as well. I also collect vintage fabric and decorative papers from around the world. I use patterns and colors inspired by these prints in my paintings. I love flea markets and garage sales because I never know what exciting retro piece of inspiration I might find!

What was your favorite thing to do when you were a child?

I loved to draw draw draw! I come from an artistic family where that was the favorite pastime. We had a house full of art supplies of all sorts. My father was an illustrator with his own syndicated comic, my mother was a graphic artist and painter, my big brother went on to be an animator for Nickelodeon and Cartoon Network, and I grew up to illustrate children’s books.

Do you have any more Minerva stories?

I’m always brainstorming new story ideas. It’s possible that Minerva may find herself getting into trouble again at some point!