A pug on the move! Kipling the pug (known as Kip for short) has taken off on his first plane flight to see the world, learn new things and have an amazing adventure!
A jet setting pug with a passport is topic of today’s chat with Marie Story, author of the cute children’s book ‘Pug with a Passport’. Marie, thanks for spending some time with me today to chat about the adventures of Kip. I have to say that I’m in love with the idea of a super cute pug picking up his first passport and exploring the world. Where did you get the idea to exploring the life of a travelling pug?
I actually came up with the idea as I was walking my pugs. I rushed home so excited, and drafted the cover first thing–a bit of a backward approach, obviously.
Not at all! There’s no such thing as the right or wrong way for a book to develop. And having pug-inspiration is not something that should be dismissed! Obviously the pugs played a bit part of the inspiration, but did you find that investigations were also required for the travel side of the tale?
Yes, absolutely. Travel can be nerve-wracking for adults, so imagine how overwhelming it can be for kids. I wanted to explain the process in a way that would make it seem like an adventure–and that certainly did take some research.
Are you a big international adventurer?
I’m a third culture kid. I was born in the Philippines, grew up in Japan, and bounced all over the world before finally settling in San Antonio, Texas in my 30’s. So yes, this book is based on my love of travel and adventure.
Wow, with all of that travel I’m sure you would have had no problem sending Kip on wild adventures. What do you hope that readers take away from Kip’s adventures?
Learn about cultures outside your neighborhood and your city. Don’t be afraid to meet new people and to try new things. There’s a big, wonderful world out there waiting to be explored!
It must have been such fun to share the exploits of exploration! Was that your favourite part of developing this tale?
I’ve worked as a professional illustrator for years. This was my first venture into creating something of my own. Creating this book — and the next books in the series has been a huge learning process, but it’s been very exciting to see how much kids enjoy the stories.
I can see how taking those first steps to create your own work would be the most exciting aspect! And once you did it once I’m guessing that you wanted to release another book of Kip’s adventures. Can you tell us where Kip is off to next?
I’m working on the third book in this series. Kip is off on an adventure in Mexico City!
Kip is going to have an awesome time partying in Mexico City!
Absolutely! Ain’t no party like a pug party!
*Laughs* That sounds like the best party ever! Do you use any pug party music when you’re working on these books?
I love a bit of big band swing.
Who doesn’t love a big swing band! Finally, before I let you return to the adventures of Kip, other than listening to the awesome tunes from the big bands, do you have any other advice for other authors looking to embark on self-publishing?
Unless you have experience in book design (and illustration), shell out for professional work. Your cover is what sells your book, so don’t be afraid to invest in it. It WILL make all the difference in the world.
Well, I have to admit that I love the cover of your book. I mean who doesn’t love a super cute pug with a passport? Marie, thanks for joining me today and I’ll be looking forward to more adventures of Kip the pug in the future.
Want to find out more about Marie Story? Connect here!