Hannah is just like every young Aussie girl, except for one thing – she has just published her first book, I Don’t Like Cheese.Within the beautifully illustrated picture book pages, Hannah tells the story of Mike, the mouse who just won’t eat cheese although he loves tacos and pizza. But, hold on, don’t those have cheese in them? That was Hannah’s point exactly. With a message beyond her years, Hannah explores how even the fussiest eaters can be tempted to try new flavours. And, if you’re anything like Mike, you might find you develop quite a taste for international cuisine along the way!
Check out Hannah’s star interview here.
We spoke to Hannah about her incredibly publishing feat. Here’s her journey…
How did you come to write the book?
“Mr. Holland had read some of my work from class and was also aware of how much I loved to read and write stories, so he approached me and asked if I would be interested in writing him a children’s story. I never imagined that when I wrote this book it would be published. I have always wanted to be an author and I think it’s incredible that I have been given this opportunity at such a young age. I am extremely excited!”
Does the book have a message for children?
“The message in the book is that fussy eaters should try different things because you don’t really know if you like something unless you try it.”
Hannah’s book ‘I Don’t Like Cheese’ has a lot of cheesy recipes in it to tantalise fussy tastebuds.”
Are you ‘Mike the Mouse’ in disguise?
“I wouldn’t say I’m Mike, but I can be a bit of a fussy eater. I am getting better as I get older and I do try more things now. Like Mike, I love brie and camembert cheese!”
Why do you think the story’s such a hit?
“I think it’s because not only is there a message for fussy eaters about trying new things, but it also teaches the days of the week, countries and their cultures and it also explores the friendship of a little girl and a mouse.”
In Mike’s world, Thursday’s are Italian pizza and gelato night. Who’s coming for dinner?
What was it like to hear your story being read aloud at school?
“I was very nervous but excited at the idea of the school hearing my story.”
Are you a writer from way back? Well, at least since you learnt to write…?
“I have always loved books. My Mum and Dad would always read to me, and starting at the age of three my Mum would write my stories down that I would tell her and then I would add the pictures. We still have most of them in a shoebox. I would make up my own stories about Dora the Explorer, Charlie and Lola, and Fifi Forget-Me-Not. I think it took me longer to come up with the idea of Mike and his fussy eating habits than what it used to when I was younger!”
Full as a bull. Or a mouse. Mike has a few more adventures planned in the mouse pipeline…
How did the publishing deal happen?
“After I had written the book for Mr. Holland my story was featured in the local newspaper. We were then contacted by the Children’s Book Council and my book was reviewed on the Kids Book Review website. Exisle Publishing requested a copy of the manuscript from me and then they contacted me and offered me a publishing deal.”
What does it feel like to be a published author at 12?
“It’s very exciting! I don’t personally know anyone else that has published a book, so to be published at 12 is amazing. I have always had the dream to be a published author one day, but to be offered the chance to publish my book at 12 is unbelievable. I am so grateful to Exisle for giving me this opportunity.”
What advice would you have for other children’s authors?
“If writing is your passion and becoming published is your dream, don’t ever give up because you never know what could be around the corner.”
What’s your next goal?
“I have a few more adventures planned for Mike the Mouse…”
Buy The Book
I Don’t Like Cheese is available here and wherever good books are sold RRP $19.99. I Don’t Like Cheese is illustrated by grown-up illustrator Lauren Merrick in a delightfully whimsical watercolour style.
Have you read Hannah’s book? Tell us below!…
