Exploring Grief, Identity, and Growth Through Storytelling
Award-winning author Lori Keating discusses her books Butterfly Ink, The Memory Quilt, and Angels in the Sand, sharing insights on grief, identity, character growth, genre-blending, and the emotional depth of storytelling.
Lori Keating is a masterful storyteller whose works resonate deeply with readers of all ages. An award-winning author celebrated for her versatility, she crafts narratives that traverse the emotional landscapes of childhood, adolescence, and the tender moments of growing up. With Butterfly Ink, she took young adult fiction to new heights, weaving a tale that is as thought-provoking as it is beautifully lyrical. The Memory Quilt, her poignant picture book, tenderly explores themes of grief and remembrance, leaving an indelible mark on readers both young and old. Now, with Angels in the Sand, her latest middle-grade novel, Keating once again proves her ability to balance humour and heartache in a way that feels both effortless and profound.
Beyond her literary contributions, Keating is a champion of the children’s literature community, lending her voice as the host of Kid Lit Meet N Greet, a podcast where she shines a spotlight on the storytellers shaping young minds. Her passion for writing is matched only by her dedication to fostering connections—between authors, illustrators, and the readers who find solace, adventure, and understanding in their books.
In this exclusive Reader’s House interview, Lori Keating shares insights into her creative process, the emotional depth of her characters, and the delicate art of blending genres. As she reflects on the inspirations behind her books, we gain a deeper appreciation for the narratives that have touched so many lives.
Lori Keating masterfully weaves heartfelt, thought-provoking stories that inspire, uplift, and connect readers through deeply authentic characters and beautifully crafted narratives.
What inspired you to write “The Memory Quilt” and delve into themes of grief and loss?
The inspiration for The Memory Quilt came from a personal place of reflection on how we process loss and how memories shape us. I wanted to explore how grief, though deeply painful, can also be a thread that connects people across generations. The quilt symbolizes how we piece together fragments of memories, each square representing a moment or a person who shaped us, even after they’re gone. It became a way to show how the act of remembering—through stories, objects, or even rituals—can bring both comfort and healing.
How do you approach character development, particularly in your novel “Butterfly Ink,” where Calli undergoes such significant growth?
Character development in Butterfly Ink was about understanding the emotional landscape of the protagonist, Calli. I wanted her to feel like someone readers could recognize, someone complex with flaws and strength. Her growth wasn’t just about external events; it was about confronting her inner world, understanding who she is, and how she fits into the world around her. I focus a lot on the internal journey—how characters wrestle with their fears, desires, and past traumas—and allow them to grow naturally from the experiences they go through, whether through relationships, self-reflection, or external conflicts.
Could you share your process for blending multiple genres in your work, and how you decide which genre a new story will fall into?
Blending genres is often an organic process for me. I start with a central idea or emotional core, and the genre emerges from there. For example, Butterfly Ink has elements of magical realism, but at its heart, it’s a coming-of-age story. I see genres not as boundaries, but as tools to enhance the emotional tone and the message of the story. If a story requires a fantastical element to make its point, I’ll go there. If it needs a darker, more grounded approach, I’ll shift towards realism. It’s really about what serves the character and theme best.
How do you ensure that the emotions in your stories resonate deeply with readers, especially when tackling sensitive topics like grief or identity?
I believe in making the emotions real and accessible, which means I often draw from personal experience or closely observe how others handle complex emotions. When writing about grief or identity, I focus on small, universal moments—the way someone might hold a memory close, or how identity feels both fluid and static. I make sure the emotions are rooted in the characters’ actions, thoughts, and relationships. I also avoid oversimplifying these feelings; grief, identity, and loss are multifaceted, so I embrace their complexity to make sure they resonate authentically.
In “Butterfly Ink,” the island setting plays a key role in the story. How do you use settings to enhance the themes or emotional arcs of your novels?
Setting is often a reflection of a character’s emotional state or the theme I’m exploring. In Butterfly Ink, the island setting is isolated, magical, and somewhat timeless, which mirrors Calli’s inner world as she navigates identity and transformation. The sea, the storm, and even the specific locations on the island represent different aspects of Calli’s journey—her internal conflict, her need for solitude, and her eventual awakening. A well-chosen setting can act as a silent character in the story, influencing mood and driving the emotional undercurrent.
What role do you believe vulnerability plays in your writing, particularly in your characters’ journeys?
Vulnerability is essential for creating authentic, relatable characters. It’s where characters make their biggest transformations, and it’s often where readers connect the most. Characters who open themselves to pain, growth, or change are often the ones readers remember. Vulnerability allows for real connection, whether it’s through a raw, personal moment or an external challenge they’re forced to face. In my work, vulnerability is a necessary component for characters to experience real change, and it’s also the emotional heartbeat that keeps the story grounded in truth.
What advice would you offer to aspiring authors who are trying to find their unique voice in a crowded literary world?
My advice would be to embrace your individuality and write what speaks to you, even if it feels niche or unpolished. The world of literature is vast, and there’s room for every voice. Don’t be afraid to explore different writing styles or genres until you find what truly excites you. Also, focus on the emotional truths in your work. Readers connect with stories that feel real, and the more you trust your instincts and authenticity, the clearer your voice will become. Write from a place of passion, and your unique perspective will shine through.
“Angels in the Sand” blends humor with grief in a way that’s accessible and heartwarming for middle-grade readers. How do you strike the balance between these two elements, especially for a younger audience?
Blending humor with grief in Angels in the Sand was an intentional choice to make the emotional journey more relatable and less overwhelming for younger readers. Kids experience loss and grief too, but often in a different, less structured way than adults. Humor is a coping mechanism, and it can provide a safe space for them to engage with tough emotions without feeling weighed down. I wanted to show that it’s okay to laugh, even in hard times, and that joy and sadness can coexist. The key was to keep the humor genuine—funny moments came from the characters’ personalities, quirks, and situations, not to diminish the seriousness of grief but to show that life goes on, even through the most difficult of experiences. The goal was for readers to feel comforted and understood, knowing that they’re not alone in facing tough emotions, and that humor can help them heal.
