Yangsook Choi
Yangsook Choi grew up in Korea. She started drawing at age four and loved telling her grandma scary stories. Since moving to New York to pursue her art, she has written and illustrated many books for young readers. Her books have been acclaimed as a New York Times Outstanding Book of the Year, an American Library Association Notable Book, and with an International Reading Association’s Children’s Book Award. She splits her time between Seoul and New York.
Interview
What was your favorite book when you were a child?
Arsène Lupin, Gentleman Thief by Maurice Leblanc
What’s your favorite line from a book?
“A light from the shadows shall spring”—J. R. R. Tolkien, The Fellowship of the Ring
Who are your top three favorite authors or illustrators?
Authors—Louis Sachar, Richard Peck, and Gabrielle Roy
Illustrators—Violeta Lópiz, Svein Nyhus, and Marc SimontWhy did you want to become an author or illustrator?
I never wanted to be a writer. I was a doodler before I unexpectedly turned author. I’m still not passionate about writing in general. But I am passionate about writing for children. I’m a big fan of them.
Do you have any advice for future authors or illustrators?
Create your work with love for children and the child that resides within you. Do not let fear dictate your creativity.
