Van G. Garret is a poet, children’s book author, and educator. He brings these three aspects of himself together to bring delightful picture books–and educator guides for fellow children’s book creators–to life.
Bio
Van G. Garrett is the author of Kicks, his debut picture book, Juneteenth, and Specs. An acclaimed poet, he won the Poetry Question National Chapbook Contest for Scrap and the Best Book of African American Poetry from the Texas Association of Authors for 49: Wings and Prayers. He is a musician and visual artist. Photo Credit: Sederrick Raphiel. Website: www.vanggarrettpoet.com
https://www.harpercollins.com/blogs/authors/van-g-garrett-75301
@vanggarrett @vanggarrett1
The Journey: My Path to Publishing
I’ve written poetry for decades. However, I began seriously writing for young people seven years ago. I’m intentional about writing stories that make kids feel seen and heard. I craft stories that give young readers reasons to smile, reflect, and be who they are.
Writing picture books makes me feel joyful and playful. It is my sincere hope that readers feel my excitement when they read my work.
The Backstory: How I Got “The Deal”
I wrote KICKS at a writing retreat. I shared the book with my friends and they loved it! They strongly encouraged me find an agent. I queried and auditioned several agencies and agents before signing with Emily Mitchell at Wernick & Pratt, an agent/agency that I feel is a good fit for me and my work.
Emily and I began workshopping KICKS to get it submission-ready. After a few months the book was submitted to several publishers. Two were interested in book. Both publishers offered deals. I signed with Versify/HarperCollins.
Versify/HarperCollins published KICKS, JUNETEENTH, and SPECS. They will also publish SKY TOUCHIN’ (winter 2028).
The Inspiration: Who/What Inspired Me
I learned about the power of the written and spoken word at an early age. My parents read to my sister and me all the time. They also talked about interesting things that they read or learned—they still do.
Some of my favorite memories highlight listening to stories. On vacations, in car rides, and on the weekends.
Words and conversations were always floating in the air—in the kitchen, the garage, the library, Sunday school, or wherever I was. And wherever people were.
I paid close attention to what people said. But I also paid attention to how people said things. I read a lot. And I paid attention to how words on pages carried a lot of weight.
The Process: How I Work
I love the writing/creative process! I’ve actually thought about recording the way that I create because I’m literally all over the place. I pace, snack, observe, play Tetris—yes, Tetris. I play with random objects. I listen to a lot of music. I paint and take photos. And I play the drums. These are a few of the things that I do in my writing territories. However, my process is a lot more reflective and quieter when I’m writing on a plane or train.