Emily Snape is a children's author and illustrator whose work has appeared online, on television, in shops and even on buses! She loves coffee and notebooks, and has three cheeky children, Leo, Fin and Flo who keep her on her toes and give her lots of inspiration for stories. Her latest book, Game On! Critters is the third instalment in the Game On series.
Can you tell us a little about the new book?
The latest book in the GAME ON series is called CRITTERS, and it follows the hair-raising adventures of brothers Max and Liam as they are sucked into a gaming app that transforms them into tiny fleas. They must survive and win the level of the game to progress to become another animal- in the hope they will eventually beat the app and become humans again.
How difficult was it writing the follow up to the first book Game On! Shrinkle and what did you find different about the process from the first book?
Creating plots for Max and Liam's insane misadventures is great fun. I love exploring Max and Liam's complicated brother relationship. They have very different outlooks and as they face challenges in the video game world and in their real lives, they often come to realise things are not as black and white as they might first seem.
It was an interesting challenge to write a stand alone book that someone could pick up and enjoy without having to give too much back story but that also feels like a continuation of the first two books, for some one else who is reading the GAME ON books in order!
What research was involved?
I did a lot of research into the animals the brothers are transformed into which helped me to decide what dangers they might face. I spent time watching pigeons to really try to imagine what it might be like to move and fly like them.
I also lead creative writing and illustration workshops with children twice a week, which really helps me get into the head of 8-12 year olds and think about the words they use.
My two sons, and their love/hate relationship also gives me lots of ideas for my books!
What was your routine or process when writing this book?
The concept for this adventure was an idea my son, Fin, had while we were on the tube travelling across London. He loves video games, so I asked him to think about what amazing adventures Max and Liam could have next.
That Summer, he was also full of Would You Rather questions, which gave me the idea to use them as a device in the game.
Next, I developed a really thorough synopsis, which my editor reviewed and made suggestions for, so I knew where the story was going before I started writing.
I love starting the day with about three strong coffees and then getting to my computer. While writing this book, I went to Spain, and I took my laptop and wrote sections of it on the beach!
If a soundtrack was made to accompany the new book, name a song or two you would include.
Don’t Stop Me Now‘ by Queen
Survivor - Eye Of The Tiger
Rocky Soundtrack - No Easy Way Out
What did you enjoy the most about writing Game On! Critters?
I most enjoyed writing about the level of the game where the brothers turned into birds. I also loved coming up with ideas for the cover design.
What did you do to celebrate finishing this book?
We went out for a special meal. I am a massive foodie!
What is the favourite book you have read so far this year and why?
I really enjoyed Tomorrow, and Tomorrow, and Tomorrow by Gabrielle Zevin. It was unpredicatable and fun but also had some poignant bits.
What’s next on the agenda for you?
I am really excited about writing a new middle grade book which I've started this summer which has a lot of unexpected twists!
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