PHOTO: Kathryn Lasky seated thoughtfully, surrounded by her books and photographs, embodying a lifelong passion for storytelling.
Inspiring Insights From A Celebrated Children’s And Adult Author
Kathryn Lasky discusses her seamless blend of fiction and non-fiction, her creative inspirations, and her enduring appeal in both children’s and adult literature.
Kathryn Lasky has long been a luminous presence in children’s and young adult literature, weaving stories that linger in the imagination and the heart. With over one hundred books to her name, her work transcends age, touching on themes both timeless and timely. From the magical wings of the Guardians of Ga’hoole owls to the poignant realities of historical figures, she invites readers to explore worlds that are at once richly detailed and deeply human.
Her ability to blend fiction and non-fiction with seamless grace reveals an author profoundly attuned to the nature of truth. Whether through the eyes of a young adventurer or the careful gaze of an artist-sleuth like Georgia O’Keeffe, Lasky’s narratives delve into the complexities of identity, courage, and the yearning for connection. There is a sincerity in her storytelling that honours the reader’s trust — a bond built on honesty and respect for the stories that shape us.
In this conversation, Kathryn Lasky reflects on her journey across genres and generations, sharing insights into her creative process, the inspirations behind her work, and the enduring appeal of her characters. It is a testament to the power of storytelling — how it can both illuminate the past and open new vistas for the future.
What inspired you to reimagine Georgia O’Keeffe as an amateur sleuth in your mystery series set in 1930s New Mexico?
I was intrigued as to how an artist might try to solve a mystery. What would the cognitive process involve. How would O’Keeffe use , perhaps I can call it—the forensic apparatus of her eye and brain to decipher a crime.
In “Mortal Radiance,” how did you intertwine real historical figures like D.H. Lawrence with fictional elements to enhance the mystery?
Actually, it wasn’t all that hard. When I found out that it was true that Lawrence’s wife Frieda actually dug up his grave in France, then had the remains cremated and brought to New Mexico to be kept in a chapel she had bult for his ashes, I though my God ,this must be a story. Nothing like starting a mystery on a smidgen of truth.
With “A Slant of Light” releasing in February 2025, what new dimensions of Georgia O’Keeffe’s character are you exploring in this instalment?
I know that Georgia had always wanted to have a child. But her husband did not. He insisted that she have an abortion when she became pregnant. So, in Slant of Light when she rescues Joseph from the abusive Indian school, she was able to explore this maternal yearning within her. It was fun to write about Georgia as a mother.. I’m sure she would have made a great mother.
How did your background in children’s literature influence the narrative style and character development in your adult mystery novels?
That’s a difficult question to answer. In my own mind, I don’t feel there is a difference. I feel that I write the same for children as I do for adults. I try to make truthful characters; honest characters, be they good of evil. I feel that the best writers see seek to establish a bond with readers that rests on truth whether it’s fiction or nonfiction. After all we are asking for a reader’s time and trust.
The “Guardians of Ga’Hoole” series captivated young readers worldwide. What do you believe contributed to its enduring appeal?
Beats me! I was never expecting these books to be such a hit. I just meticulously created this world. I think that’s why children like it. Each child I feel can find an owl that he/she bonds with. A sort of alter ego for themselves or a best friend.
Your children’s book “Sugaring Time” offers a vivid portrayal of maple syrup production. What drew you to this subject, and how did you approach making it engaging for children?
I wrote that book eons ago. It was one of my first books. We had a country house in Vermont back then, and Vermont is where a lot of maple syrup comes from. It’s an interesting process and our son then was about four years old. So, we went ‘sugaring’ with our neighbors, and Max our son was fascinated. So, although at that time I had never written nonfiction I guess you could say I took inspiration from my son Max and decided to do it.
What challenges and benefits have you encountered when transitioning between writing for children and adults?
Well, as I mentioned before I don’t think I am consciously aware of any transitions. It just mysteriously happens. There is of course appropriateness. I’m not going to write vivid sex scenes. Violence? Yes, I do write about violence sometimes. Those owls really got into some terrible fights. And I’ve written a lot about the violence of war—WW 2, in particular. My seven -year- old grandson is fascinated by war. This is because his father is a photographer and covered the war in Afghanistan. He has a WW2 coloring book! I asked him if. He wanted to join the army, and his reply was no way! But he is interested in war. I am somewhat the same way. I have an uncle who was in the Battle of the Bulge, and cousin who fought under Patton in North Africa, their stories intrigued me.
What advice would you offer aspiring authors aiming to write successfully across multiple age groups?
Just be honest. Be honest with yourself. Allow yourself to reflect on what had, or has, meaning for you when you were growing up. Explore your own truths—emotional, spiritually and maybe even politically.
