This week’s Ryecast features two local men who have collaborated on a new picture book for young children. Daisy and the Sneezee has been written and illustrated by David Angell and Oliver Brooks who both live in Rye. They’ve been telling me about the story behind the book and discussing their favourite authors – including some of Rye’s most famous writers.
“I started writing the book a few years before my daughter’s birth. She’s now three. I wanted to write something that captured a child’s imagination, but not in a scary way,” says David. “It was only after meeting Oliver in the Globe pub that I thought the book could actually happen. Working with an experienced illustrator really helped my story telling.”
The book tells the story of a young girl called Daisy who meets a magical creature – the Sneezee – in the woods. “People have the idea that writing for children is easy,” says Oliver. “It really isn’t. Simplicity is difficult to acheive and you don’t want too many words when you’re trying to get a child to sleep. The pictures are vital to the story.”
They’re entering a crowded marketplace competing against best-selling celebrity authors, but they’re both inspired by the creativity of Rye today and the town’s long history of writing. “I didn’t grow up here, but as a child I read The Wolves of Willoughby Chase by Rye’s Joan Aitken,” says Oliver. “I read the Captain Pugwash stories too. It’s only living here I’ve discovered John Ryan’s house in the town.”
For David, Rye’s thriving creative community has also helped his writing. “There’s a culture of collaboration here. Everyone has a story to tell. Who wouldn’t be inspired by this beautiful town.”
To hear more about David and Oliver, download the latest edition of the podcast by searching for Ryecast wherever you get your pods, or by visiting www.ryecast.org
You can buy Daisy and the Sneezee at Ethel Loves Me on the high street or from www.sneezee.co.uk.
Image Credits: James Stewart .