Today we’d like to introduce you to A.J. Irving.
Hi A.J., can you start by introducing yourself? We’d love to learn more about how you got to where you are today?
My childhood dream was to be a writer. I never let go of that dream, but I changed my mind often about the kind of writing I wanted to do. I discovered my true writing path after I became a mother. I will never forget the way my son’s eyes lit up when his little hands excitedly explored the pages of picture books. It was pure magic. My desire to write for children deepened year after year as we read book after book.
I read books on craft, took classes, joined the SCBWI (Society of Children’s Book Writers and Illustrators), connected with critique partners, and became active in the kidlit community. There is a misconception that writing for children is easy. Over the years, I have learned that it takes incredible dedication and thick skin to make it in this industry.
I also drove a bookmobile to underserved communities when I worked at the Garden City Public Library in Idaho. My heart exploded with joy every time kiddos returned a book and asked for another. I felt like I was making a difference in their lives, but I wanted to do more. I wanted to write books for them. And I refused to give up.
The first big step in building my career as a children’s author happened in 2018 when I signed with my literary agent. Two years later, my first picture book, Dance Like a Leaf, published in English, Spanish, and French. My second picture book, The Wishing Flower, will be published on May 30, 2023, with Knopf Books for Young Readers.
Can you talk to us a bit about the challenges and lessons you’ve learned along the way. Looking back, would you say it’s been easy or smooth in retrospect?
It has definitely not been a smooth road! The traditional publishing path has so many speed bumps and roadblocks, but I held my dream close to my heart through all the rejection. I sent 80+ submissions before I signed with my agent. I received 25+ form rejections, a dozen champagne rejections, and a whole lot of no responses. I am so grateful for my supportive family. My husband and kiddos cheered me up with flowers and love notes when I received passes.
It was also difficult to debut during the pandemic. I was unable to attend in-person events, but I visited indie bookstores and signed copies of my book. It truly was an incredible feeling to see my book face out on the shelf. Picture books can take years to create because there are so many steps from conception to publication. I am a firm believer in celebrating the magical moments along the way.
Alright, so let’s switch gears a bit and talk business. What should we know about your work?
I want to push “what can be done” in the picture book space. I tend to write about difficult topics. And I am very passionate about contributing to queer kidlit. Queer and questioning kids deserve to feel seen, safe, and loved.
Dance Like a Leaf synopsis: As her grandmother’s health declines, a young girl begins to lovingly take the lead in their cozy shared autumn traditions. Poetic prose paired with evocative illustrations by Mexican illustrator Claudia Navarro make for a beautiful celebration of life and a gentle introduction to the death of a loved one. https://ajirving.com/books/dance-like-a-leaf/
The Wishing Flower synopsis: An LGBTQ-inclusive story about understanding your peers, your feelings, and yourself, The Wishing Flower is a love letter to longing, belonging, and longing to belong.
Birdie finds comfort in nature and books, but more than anything, she longs for connection, to be understood. At school, Birdie feels like an outsider. Quiet and shy, she prefers to read by herself, rather than jump rope or swing with the other kids. That all changes when Sunny, the new girl, comes along. Like Birdie, Sunny has a nature name. She also likes to read, and loves to rescue bugs. And when Sunny smiles at her, Birdie’s heart balloons like a parachute.
From the acclaimed author of Dance Like a Leaf, with stunning illustrations by Kip Alizadeh, this book will inspire readers to honor their wishes and show the world their truest selves. https://www.penguinrandomhouse.com/books/678286/the-wishing-flower-by-a-j-irving-illustrated-by-kip-alizadeh/
Any big plans?
I am looking forward to launching The Wishing Flower this summer. I also have a forthcoming book that I am not allowed to discuss publicly yet, but I will say it’s queer, and it’s the most unique book I have ever written. Nothing like it has ever been published.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://ajirving.com/
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/aj_irving/?r=nametag
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ajirvingauthor
- Twitter: https://twitter.com/aj_irving
Image Credits
Neil Simmons Photography
