Barrington-based author Jamie Michalak has built a solid career of bringing a stable of fanciful characters to life in stories revolving around everything from a mouse detective to a buddy series centered on a hot dog and a bean. Her latest, Hazel the Handful, tells the story of a pooch whose world is turned upside down by the arrival of a new human in the household.
What inspired the tale of this playful pup?
I had a petsitting adventure with my cousin’s tiny terrier, Pep, who has a sassypants personality. She’s the boss. She barks at Great Danes like she’s not four pounds. The second my cousin left, I looked for Pep, but she’d disappeared. I searched the apartment for a half hour, terrified this tiny dog slipped out the door and was now roaming the city streets. Imagining the worst, I sat on the sofa to think – and cry. Then I felt a nudge at my side. I looked down at a rumpled blanket and lifted it to find a grumpy poof of fluff. Pep had been there the whole time. Not only was I elated to find her, this moment sparked an idea for a story. Hazel also shares Pep’s personality, routine, and epic stuffie collection with a clear order of favorites.
How did Matt Myers get brought on to illustrate?
Usually the publisher pairs up the author and illustrator. The book’s designer and editor worked together to select a handful of illustrators, and they sent me art samples to review. I voted for Matt Myers because his art is full of warmth and expression, and it’s laugh-out-loud funny. His Hazel the Handful art makes readers crack up, and they can relate to her emotional ups and downs.
Are there common threads that connect your characters, be they dog, lemon, or turtle?
Nearly all of them are inspired by real kids – or dogs. For example, Bean, from Frank and Bean, was inspired by my younger son at age five. My son’s dream was to become a drummer and live in a food truck that he’d sell macaroni and cheese from. Bean is a musical fruit who lives in an RV.
What was your favorite story book as a child and why?
The Monster at the End of This Book [written by Jon Stone, illustrated by Michael Smollin] is still one of my all-time favorites. Every page turn amps up the suspense and hilarity as Grover loses it. And the twist at the end … genius!
Word on the street is that you like toast. Any fave East Bay snack spots?
The Blue Kangaroo is my go-to for coffee and a breakfast sandwich. The staff is super friendly. If I’m craving sourdough toast, the Bakeshop at Bywater is the spot. In the evening, the cozy Arc{hive} Book + Snackery is my favorite place to unwind with fun snacks, a cocktail, and a card game. Learn more at JamieMichalakBooks.com
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