Rosanne Parry
Rosanne Parry is the author of six middle grade novels. The most recent are Last of the Name and A Wolf Called Wander. She is a part-time bookseller at legendary Portland independent bookstore, Annie Blooms, and is the captain of the League of Exceptional Writers, a free mentoring workshop for young avid readers and writers, sponsored by the Oregon SCBWI and Powell’s Bookstore. She lives with her family in an historic farmhouse and writes in a treehouse in her backyard.
Interview
What was your favorite book when you were a child?
A Wizard of Earthsea by Ursula LeGuin
What’s your favorite line from a book?
“There is no greater agony than bearing an untold story inside you.”—I Know Why the Caged Bird Sings by Maya Angelou
Who are your top three favorite authors or illustrators?
Ursula LeGuin, Brian Doyle and Terry Pratchett
Why did you want to become an author or illustrator?
Having taught school and worked a summer camp and raised children, I have a keen appreciation of the staying power of story and its power to shape a young person’s world view. I love a book’s ability to spark a conversation, and that conversation is often far more important the book itself.
Do you have any advice for future authors or illustrators?
Be tenacious. Art is in the details and your stamina for revision will determine much in your success. Also go to your local bookstore and listen to authors who are giving readings. I host events all the time at the bookstore and I learn something every time.