Six Questions with Kelly Lee

Growing up, Kelly Lee’s nose was always stuck in a book. Now, her favorite thing to do is read with her kids. Kelly writes picture books full of humor and heart (and if she can subtly weave in a curriculum connection, it makes her teacher-heart happy). She’s a Children’s Book Academy Graduate, SCBWI Member, 2022 PB Party Finalist, 2021 #PitchMe Finalist and member of two critique groups. As a teacher and Educational Curriculum Designer, she creates lessons and resources for 1st, 2nd and 3rd grade teachers around the world. Kelly lives close to the bush in Australia and can see kangaroos over her back fence. Her picture book Nobody Likes Monday, illustrated by Amy Calautti, was published by EK Books. Visit Kelly’s website to learn more about her and her work.

1. How did you begin your journey as an author?

Growing up, I actually thought that I was terrible at writing stories! However, as a teacher, I would write lots of stories for my students and they loved them. It gave me the confidence to write my first picture book draft which led to Nobody Likes Monday getting published. 

2. What’s bringing you joy in your creative life right now?

I am actually trying to learn to illustrate. I like teaching my kids to try things, even when they're hard. So, I'm taking some courses and learning new skills. Maybe one day I will get to write AND illustrate my own picture book. 

3. What piece of advice would you like to give to aspiring kidlit authors?

Find a critique group, it is a must. Not only has it helped me improve my stories, but the friendships I've made are very special to me. They understand the highs and lows of the publishing world and have been there to support me through every step along the way.

4. Where did you get the idea for your book Nobody Likes Monday? What was your inspiration?

I saw a post on Twitter where someone was upset that the next day was Monday and they had to go back to work, and I thought, 'Poor Monday! It would not be fun to have everyone hate you.' It got me thinking and led to me writing this story.

5. Was this always the title for this project? If not, what other titles did you consider and how did you land on this one?

The original title I came up with was 'Everybody Hates Monday'. My critique group thought the word 'hate' might be too harsh, so I played around with some options and settled on 'Nobody Likes Monday'. Same sentiment, less harsh. 

6. If you could tell readers one secret about this book, what would it be?

The names of the kids who sign the letters in the book are my three children, Zoe, Ezra and Zarah and my nephew Oliver. 

If you're a traditionally published author or illustrator of picture books or middle-grade books and you'd like to be featured on a future edition of the Six Questions blog, email mary@boonewrites.com