Heather Murphy Capps
Jody McKitrick
Heather Murphy Capps grew up in a small Minnesota town where the motto is “Cows, Colleges, and Contentment.” She spent fifteen years as a television news journalist before deciding to focus on her favorite kind of writing: books for kids involving history, social justice, science, mystery, and a touch of magic. A mixed-race author committed to diversity in publishing, she lives in Northern Virginia with her husband, two kids, two cats, and yes, even some cows, colleges, and contentment.
Interview
What was your favorite book when you were a child?
A Wrinkle in Time and Anne of Green Gables
What’s your favorite line from a book?
“It was a dark and stormy night.”
Who are your top three favorite authors or illustrators?
Varian Johnson, Chad Lucas, Nic Stone
Why did you want to become an author or illustrator?
Writing is my happy place. Even when it’s hard or I feel stuck, exploring my characters’ stories is one of my top favorite things to do, other than being with my family and friends. Being an author seemed like a pretty obvious career choice for someone like me!
Do you have any advice for future authors or illustrators?
Find your people. Surround yourself with loyal family and friends who aren’t writers, but also make a circle of writing kindred spirits. Perspective is key, and a wide variety of loved ones in your life will help you stay grounded.
