A glimpse into the life of children’s book author, Jacinta Froud
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Who doesn’t love a good children’s book – especially around Christmas time?
Ahead of Christmas, Jacinta Froud, author of the picture book Jingle Belly (which has become a beloved gift for locals) opens up about her journey as an author based in Canberra and offers a glimpse into her daily life – from being a mother of three to her creative process and the local support that has shaped her career.
A day in the life
As Jacinta describes a typical day in her life, it becomes clear that no two days are ever the same for this Canberra wordsmith. The unpredictability of her schedule keeps her on her toes, with the anticipation of an email from a publisher being a constant thrill.
‘There is nothing quite as exciting as an email from a publisher in your inbox, even if it is a rejection,” she explains.
But Jacinta’s life extends far beyond her writing desk. She is deeply embedded in her community, volunteering, working in various positions, and, most importantly, being a parent. Balancing these commitments requires the finesse of a juggler, but she does so gracefully. Invited to schools, she relishes engaging with young minds, crafting delightful stories, and sharing them during Storytime at Libraries ACT.
For Jacinta, a dream writing day is the simplest yet most profound pleasure–getting her kids off to school, taking their dog for a leisurely walk, and then settling down at her laptop with a steaming cup of tea and a mind brimming with creativity.
Canberra’s offerings
Canberra, renowned for its vibrant arts and culture scene, plays a significant role in Jacinta’s creative process. She draws inspiration from her environment, often immersing herself in nature to cultivate ideas. The city’s distinct seasons, notably the transition from winter to spring, leave an indelible mark on her storytelling.
‘Canberra has been home for me for over 30 years,” she says.
“For me it is the closeness to the community and the green spaces that influence my process the most’.
Jacinta regularly attends locally run events and exhibitions, immersing herself in the rich tapestry of Canberra’s cultural offerings.
Favourite spots
Jacinta indulges in leisurely strolls around Narrabundah Hill and her local neighbourhood when seeking the perfect backdrop for her writing endeavours. The Cork Forest at the Arboretum beckons her, as does the scenic Lake Burley Griffin bridge-to-bridge walk or run. Local bookstores serve as wellsprings of inspiration, but her favourite writing haunt is the cosy embrace of San Churro. Yet, the comfort and tranquillity of her home genuinely fuels her creativity.
‘My favourite cafe to write in is San Churro. Their hot chocolate is hard to beat.’
Balancing family and writing
Jacinta wears many hats– mother of three, writer, volunteer, and worker. Finding the balance between family commitments and her writing can be challenging, but she’s perfected the art of ‘Creating in the cracks.’ Snatching small pockets of time throughout the week, she’s been known to craft stories in the car while waiting for her children at activities. For her, picture books are the perfect length for this phase of life.
‘I have written stories in the car while waiting for my children at their activities, but I prefer to write at home where I can. Picture books are the perfect length for this stage of my life,” she explains.
Canberra writing community
The warmth and camaraderie of Canberra’s writing community have been instrumental in Jacinta’s career as an author. Early on, she attended workshops and events organised by the local Society of Children’s Book Writers and Illustrators (SCBWI) chapter, where she found a community of like-minded individuals eager to share their wisdom.
While Jacinta hasn’t collaborated extensively with local creators yet, as publishers often assemble their own teams, she remains open to the prospect, dreaming of one day working with the talented local illustrators who call Canberra home.
From local support to debut success Jacinta’s debut picture book, Jingle Belly, is a testament to her dedication and unwavering support from the Canberra literary scene. She credits SCBWI ACT for connecting her with James Layton from Larrikin House, who offered her a publishing contract for the book shortly after their meeting.
Local bookstores, libraries, and independent shops like POP Canberra have rallied behind her, proudly displaying and promoting her books and providing venues for events and workshops. Jacinta profoundly appreciates the support she’s received from her Canberra community.
A touch of Canberra in her stories Jacinta’s stories often bear subtle traces of Canberra’s essence. In Jingle Belly, the lovable character Eddie was inspired by a real-life Corgi cross Cattle Dog from Farrer, a familiar face in the local community who sought shelter at the IGA during storms.
Advice for aspiring authors
Jacinta imparts valuable advice for aspiring authors in Canberra who are eager to embark on their writing journey: connect with like-minded individuals and find a critique group, starting online if necessary (SCBWI is a fantastic resource). Attend events, engage with local authors, and understand the importance of connections in this solitary yet rewarding craft.
What’s next?
Jacinta’s journey as a children’s book author in Canberra continues to evolve. She teases an upcoming project, a noisy picture book published by Windy Hollow Books, for release in May 2024. With the talented Cat Mac as the illustrator, it offers a delightful exploration of silly animal noises that captivates young and old readers.
With every page she writes, she weaves a little piece of Canberra’s magic into the tapestry of children’s literature, leaving an indelible mark on young hearts and minds.
