Jamie Harper
As a child
I grew up outside of Boston, USA. Both my parents and my two sisters were (and still are) very creative. My favourite books were the Frances books by Russell and Lillian Hoban. I still get a lump in my throat every time I read about Frances squeezing that Chompo bar: the one she has to give to her little sister Gloria for her birthday present. I didn't know that I wanted to be an artist when I grew up and I didn't take a lot of classes. But I do remember loving to make things with my hands – it always felt so satisfying. My sisters and I spent hours at the weekend printing cards with linoleum cuts, making beads with FIMO and painting barrettes.
As an adult
I studied economics in college and worked in business for several years, but I was always craving something more creative. For a very short time, I worked as a pastry chef in California and I loved that! After the birth of my second child, I decided to take some classes in graphic design. The graphic design led to illustration. I loved being in art school and I wish I had the time to go back! Most of all, I love being a Mum – to Grace, Lucy and Georgia. They inspire almost all of the work I do today.
As an artist
Joining the Society of Children's Book Writers and Illustrators (SCBWI) was the first thing I did once I decided to make books. It's a fabulous organisation and it really helped me to get started. My first book was Don't Grown-ups Ever Have Fun? and the second was Me Too! I've also illustrated a chapter book series: the first two are called Only Emma and Not-So-Weird Emma. My ideas for books always start with a picture, then comes the story. I meet with three other author and author-illustrators regularly and we review each other's work. I don't think I could make books without them. I work in a sunny studio in my home. My children give my insightful feedback on my work – honestly, it's the best.
Things you didn't know about Jamie Harper
- I love to eat ice cream more than anything else, but I do really like Indian food and sushi too.
- I hate big, hairy spiders.
- I can spend hours and hours in art supply stores.
- My new favourite hobby is gardening.
- I swim whenever I can, but only freestyle.
- I have seen almost every movie with my husband.
- I love to collect original children’s book illustrations (I have a Rosemary Wells, G Brian Karas, Caroline Mockford and Clare Beaton).
- I absolutely, positively hate my birthday and always have.
- I want to go to South Africa and see the animals.
- Every morning, as soon as I get up, I eat one giant, malted milk ball (for real!).