Beth Mills
Alison Adkins
Beth Mills had a very boring job that didn’t involve any art before she decided she’d much rather draw and write things for kids. Beth studied illustration at the Academy of Art University, where she learned how much she loves creating characters and giving them interesting stories. Beth also likes bright colors, fun shapes, and experimenting with all kinds of art. Her picture book Ella McKeen, Kickball Queen won an ILA’s Primary Fiction Honor and the 2019 Writers League of Texas Picture Book Award. Beth lives in Texas with her family and far too many cats and dogs.
Interview
What was your favorite book when you were a child?
So. Many. Favorites. Fritz and the Beautiful Horses; Tuesday; Meanwhile, Back at the Ranch; George Shrinks; The Mysteries of Harris Burdick.
What’s your favorite line from a book?
“How fleeting are all human passions compared with the massive continuity of ducks.”—Dorothy Sayers, Gaudy Night
Who are your top three favorite authors or illustrators?
Dang, only three? Chris Van Allsburg, William Joyce, LeUyen Pham. But I could probably fill a page or so with names. There are so many wonderful, talented people out there!
Why did you want to become an author or illustrator?
I love the places books took me as a child. I love the artistry and design of a great picture book. I love to tell stories, and I love to draw. It seemed like a natural career choice for me.
Do you have any advice for future authors or illustrators?
Keep going—keep working to make your writing or your art (or both) the best they can possibly be and keep working to get it in front of the right people.
