“Armitage and the Thunder Bean” follows a queen’s son, created for villainous tasks, challenges his fate and becomes the unexpected hero of his town in a darkly creative children’s story. What was the inspiration for the setup of your story?

The idea for the story came to me in a dream, like most of my ideas, I think my imagination works best when it is in such a relaxed state and trying to make sense of the day. I had been bullied at school myself, and looking a little alternative to most, this sense of restriction by society and others placed upon me, as well as the strong theme of acceptance and kindness really resonated with my own experiences growing up. The idea of rebelling against the stigma society places upon you represented by the queen in the story is really relevant to my own experiences in life but also i wanted strong relatable themes that would reach out to children and adults that do have to deal with abuse, bullying and any kind of restriction or rejection. Showing them there is light at the end of the tunnel and your situation does not define your character. I also wanted to educate and raise awareness to those who may not include those who are a little different, to accept differences and be kind.

The book has a distinct and unusual aesthetic, especially in terms of color palette. Can you talk about the process and intention behind creating this unique visual tone?

I wanted the tone to be set, to complement the text, which can be slightly sinister in a very childlike way. I think a darker colour pallette suited the tone of the story.It also suited the characters and the subtext within the story. it’s almost a children’s gothic book in my mind. the purple was contrasting the browns and greys to keep the illustrations bold and appeal to children. I love German expressionism and the illustrations do have a glimmer of this art movement within them.

What were some themes that were important for you to explore in this book?

Acceptance of those who may look or seem unusual or a little different. Not judging a book by its cover. Some of the kindest people may look a little strange to the normal in society but that doesn’t mean anything in terms of who they are. Diversity of characters and of appearance was a big one. As well as encouraging children to be their true selves regardless of society’s standards of what is acceptable. As well as teaching kids not to prejudge others on their looks or appearance of their home life. Some children are not lucky enough to have loving homes, so if you see a child struggling, help them, be kind don’t make fun of them.

Can we expect to see more of Armitage’s adventures, and if so, what can you tell us about your plans?

Yes, Armitage is a series! I have at least another two books if not more, I’m currently illustrating the second book. You will find more ways Armitage overcomes his troubled situation and more good things start happening to the boy made out of odds and ends, this and that.

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