Interview with Bethany Clark Conducted by the Author
South Australian writer and editor, Bethany Clark, has captured the hearts of readers with her two enchanting picture books, "You've Got Yoghurt in Your Nostrils" and the recently released "Little Love List."
In "You've Got Yoghurt in Your Nostrils," Clark offers a joyful celebration of messy mealtimes, drawing inspiration from her son's early experiences with solid foods. The book, which has elements of a feminist manifesto, aims to normalize the mess that babies make during learning to eat, while also helping children learn the names of foods and body parts.
Clark's second book, "Little Love List," is a magical exploration of everyday moments, inspired by bedtime love lists and the joy and wonder that small children bring to ordinary activities. Despite the lack of detailed information about the specific inspiration behind "Little Love List" or how its creative process differed from her debut, it is clear that Clark approached both books with a similar heartfelt approach.
During a year of solo parenting while her husband worked remotely in Central Australia, the idea for "Little Love List" was born. Clark spent nightly bedtime moments telling her son a list of ways they loved each other, which helped normalize big feelings during that time.
Clark's favourite place to unwind and write is in Stansbury, Yorke Peninsula, SA. The author, who has a background in professional photography and painting, is planning to start writing retreats at her house in Stansbury later this year.
Clark's stories reflect everyday experiences with small children that can be both tricky and hilarious. Her first book, "You've Got Yoghurt in Your Nostrils," was written to be a fun story to read aloud with children. Her publisher allowed her to be subversive in the book, resulting in a unique and engaging narrative.
If Bethany Clark weren't writing picture books, she might pursue professional photography or painting. Regardless of the medium, it is clear that Clark has a knack for capturing the magic of everyday moments and transforming them into captivating stories.
Bethany Clark's home-and-garden in Stansbury, Yorke Peninsula, SA, serves as her bout of refuge and creative inspiration, where she plans to host writing retreats this year. Clark's family-dynamics and relationship with her son significantly contribute to her lifestyle, as ideas for her books, such as "Little Love List," emerge from their shared moments.
Aside from picture books, Clark's interests lie in other forms of art, like professional photography and painting, which she believes could equally capture the essence of family-dynamics and relationships, as seen in her books and everyday life.
In her books, Bethany Clark weaves together elements of relationships, family-dynamics, and entertainment into tales that celebrate the magic of everyday moments, drawing readers into heartfelt stories inspired by her personal experiences.
