Ava and the Last Bird follows a young girl who watches over a baby bird when it falls from its nest and tries to entertain it. Where did the idea for this book come from and how did it develop over time?

Many real-life events and observations have inspired the story “Ava and the Last Bird.” In my free time in the middle of nature, I watch a lot of birds. They are my favorite animals whose life stages have plenty to follow.

Little birds made their nests on my kitchen window sill a few years ago. Through the window, I could follow their lives up very close, all the way to the chicks hatching and finally leaving the nest. The slowest chick in the nest was much like the last bird in this book. It was very timid and did not dare to fly away until several days after the others.

I have learned over the years that birds are also individuals. They have their own character and habits – unfortunately, their particular dangers and enemies, too.

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

There are quite a few things hidden in this bird story. Themes include the interest in observing nature, the need for information, the coexistence of man and animal, and respect for each other. Maybe also the fact that you shouldn’t rush with nature, not even if the active children might feel it challenging to be patient enough.

Ava’s interest in nature and the sincere attempt to help the chick are evident. Even it’s clear – at least for grownup readers – right from the beginning that Ava’s methods are not efficient but rather humorous.

Although it’s evident that nature often needs just peace to take care of its cause without human interference, I wish to encourage children to take an interest and responsibility for nature and wildlife.

The importance of the generation chain is also one of my favorite themes. It appears in this book both in the description of the human family and the life of the birds. Birds and humans take care of and prepare the youngest generation for life and take experience and knowledge forward in the family.

What were some of your inspirations as a writer?

I have already revealed above how nature is a constant source of my enthusiasm. In this story, “Ava and the Last Bird,” there are many of my observations, too.

However, my main inspiration for all books is children. Their way of observing the world is unique. Everything is still so in the beginning; everything is amazing and new. The days are full of surprises. I remember very well that feeling of endless adventure.

It is still easy for me and very pleasant to look at the world through the eyes of a child. I want to take that perspective into account in everything I write. Sometimes I watch events as if standing next to my child reader – rejoicing, being surprised, becoming sad, or feeling scared together.

Alongside that perspective, I also take the experiences of my adult self to the book. A mother’s, grandmother’s, and educator’s perspectives help me understand, support, and help children. In the same way, I have always supported children in my family and around in wider circles.

The biggest inspiration and motivation for my books comes from their impact on children’s lives. If a single cry calms down, hope is maintained, fear is overcome, or enthusiasm for learning something awakens, I’ve been successful and am ready to continue again!

Will there be more Ava and Axel stories? If so, adventures will they be going on next?

So far, three books have been published about Ava and her friend Axel. The books are named after who is at the center of that particular story.

“Axel Washes the Rug” book a small story of Axel’s routine visit to Grandma’s. Admittedly, the situation takes on new dimensions after the blueberry bowl falls on Grandma’s carpet – and the secret repair attempts with detergents and bleaches follow the accident.

In “Axel and Ava as Cat Sitters” book, the children’s efforts to help their neighbor turn into a wild chase after an unsuccessful cat carousel play. Various attempts eventually make the cat escape from the balcony window. As you see, the life of active children is full of surprises!

More of Ava and Axel’s adventures are coming later. I have already finished two other stories: one about baking and one about helping at the marketplace.

It’s easy to imagine that the attempts and ideas of young bakers in the kitchen can lead to an unpredictable outcome. Many small things can go wrong when working as a temporary sales assistant. But it’s fun anyway!

I think small readers can identify well with these situations. It’s good for them to see how others also make mistakes now and then but always happily try again. I think it’s an essential lesson in life – even for adults!

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