Betsy E. Snyder
Photo by Jeffrey McCormack
Betsy Snyder made her publishing debut in 2007 with her cheerful collages in Peanut Butter and Jellyfishes: A Very Silly Alphabet Book (by Brian Cleary). Since then, she has illustrated ten books for children, including her three that she has also written. Betsy’s work has won numerous awards, including recognition from the Please Touch Museum, the Society of Illustrators, the Cooperative Children’s Book Center, Parents’ Choice and Indie Next List. In addition to writing and illustrating children’s books, Betsy is a seasoned designer of greeting cards and other children’s products. She lives with her graphic designer husband in northeast Ohio and works in a studio space just a few blocks from home.
Interview
What was your favorite book when you were a child?
The Tale of Peter Rabbit by Beatrix Potter, Make Way for Ducklings by Robert McCloskey, the Madeline books by Ludwig Bemelmans, Curious George Goes to the Hospital by H. A. Rey and Margret Rey (because there was a “Betsy” in it), The Funny Thing by Wanda Gag, and the Mrs. Piggle-Wiggle books by Betty MacDonald.
What’s your favorite line from a book?
“Real isn’t how you are made,” said the Skin Horse. “It’s a thing that happens to you. When a child loves you for a long, long time, not just to play with, but REALLY loves you, then you become Real.” —The Velveteen Rabbit by Margery Williams
Who are your top three favorite authors or illustrators?
How about 6?: Eric Carle, Richard Scarry, Leo Lionni, Shel Silverstein, Lauren Child, and Marc Boutavant.
Why did you want to become an author or illustrator?
I write and illustrate books for kids because it keeps alive the wonder of books that I experienced as a child. I consider it a gift and a privilege to be able to inspire and influence kids through my books.
Do you have any advice for future authors or illustrators?
Understand that it might take years to get published, so you have to REALLY want it and you have to seek out opportunties. Set mini goals for yourself—little stepping stones to help you get to where you want to be. Surround yourself with things that inspire you and people that believe in you—and remember to give that back to others.
