Our World Is Only Limited By Our Imagination

Mark Dantzler Author Interview

Gremlin Night follows a little boy as he goes on an adventure to explore a make-believe world with his strange new friend. What was the inspiration that created the fantastic journey these characters go on?

The inspiration for creating Gremlin Night comes from my childhood experiences. This story is largely based on my recollection of making the most of my days (and nights) with my imagination while living with less. I was the second youngest of five children. Everything I had was a hand-me-down, and that was fine with me. My childhood was a happy one. I owe that to my parents. My dad really did bring home an old brown AMC Gremlin one day. That little car became a vehicle for my imagination while serving as a second home of sorts. Many years later, that tired Gremlin really did follow me to college.

This seems like a very personal story for you. How hard was it to put this story out in the world for people to read?

Gremlin Night is a personal story. I also wanted it to be a whimsical journey for young readers and, perhaps, illustrate the point that our world is only limited by our imagination.

What were some goals you set for yourself as a writer in this book?

When planning this book, I set a goal to tell my childhood story of surviving poverty while keeping the tone simple, positive, and whimsical. Perhaps this children’s bedtime story will be entertaining and thought-provoking at the same time.

What is the next book that you are working on, and when can your fans expect it to be out?

My next children’s book is a fun unfable, of sorts. Mr. Fox Sells Pockets is a delightful story of a clever tailor who makes a plan to sell handmade pockets to everyone in town – whether they need one or not! Will the slick Fox fill his own pocket with shiny coins, or will his plan backfire? This children’s picture book is illustrated by the talented London artist Leighton Noyes and will be released in November.

Author Links: Website

When a giant gremlin shows up on his front lawn one afternoon, a young boy is excited to keep it as a pet! Gremlin Night shares the magical adventures of the boy as he explores a make-believe world with his strange new friend. This gremlin has a secret, with clues for the reader to discover! Beautifully illustrated, this whimsical tale poignantly addresses poverty through the innocent eyes of a child. With tenderness, the gremlin’s true identity is finally revealed. Gremlin Night is a story based on the author’s childhood.

Posted on August 16, 2023, in Interviews and tagged , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , . Bookmark the permalink. Leave a comment.

Comment

This site uses Akismet to reduce spam. Learn how your comment data is processed.