Acclaimed Children's Author Amy Friedman: An In-Depth Interview

Introduction

Norm Goldman, Editor of Bookpleasures.com, recently had the pleasure of interviewing Amy Friedman, a celebrated children's author renowned for her column "Tell Me a Story" with Universal Press Syndicate. Amy's journey from a book-filled childhood to becoming a beloved storyteller is both inspiring and enlightening.

Amy Friedman's Background

Early Influences

Amy Friedman’s path to writing for children began in her youth, surrounded by books, magazines, and newspapers. Her father, a lawyer with a passion for journalism, instilled in her a love for storytelling. Despite the challenges of the era, her father's dream of becoming a journalist influenced Amy's own aspirations.

Academic Pursuits

Amy pursued English at Barnard College, minoring in creative writing. She later attended City College for an MFA in writing, studying under the esteemed Donald Barthelme. His mentorship taught her the intricacies of writing and the joy it brings.

A Life-Changing Move

In the mid-80s, Amy moved from Manhattan to a sheep farm in Gananoque, Ontario, after falling in love with a Canadian. This move led her to write for the Kingston Whig-Standard, where her column "Tell Me a Story" was born. Her work as an adult columnist and author of two books, including a memoir titled "Kick the Dog and Shoot the Cat," paved the way for her involvement in children's literature.

The Birth of "Tell Me a Story"

Inspiration and Collaboration

In the early '90s, Amy proposed a children's feature to her editor, Neil Reynolds. With the help of Mary Beaty, a children's librarian, Amy delved into folklore and mythology, rekindling her love for these genres. This collaboration led to the creation of "The Bedtime Story," which quickly gained popularity and was picked up by Universal Press Syndicate, transforming into "Tell Me a Story."

Global Reach

"Tell Me a Story" became a global sensation, running in hundreds of newspapers worldwide. Despite challenges like the mid-90s newsprint price hike, the column continues to thrive, reaching readers as far as China.

Creating the Audio Version

Selecting Stories and Music

Amy decided to produce an audio version of her stories, enlisting the help of her husband, Dennis Danziger, and producer Lori Ada Jaroslow. They collaborated with composer Laura Hall, known for her work on "Whose Line Is It Anyway?" Together, they selected a diverse range of stories, ensuring a mix of different cultures, characters, and themes.

Engaging Narrators

The narrators for the audio version were carefully chosen for their unique voices and talents. Notable names include Lauren Tom, Kathleen Wilhoite, and Jack McGee. Each brought their own flair to the stories, creating a rich and engaging listening experience.

Production Challenges and Triumphs

Overcoming Obstacles

The production process, from story selection to recording, was both challenging and rewarding. The team faced tight budgets and time constraints but overcame these hurdles through collaboration and creativity. The result was a high-quality CD filled with joy and magic.

Marketing Efforts

Marketing the CD has been a learning experience for Amy. Universal Press Syndicate has been instrumental in reaching out to newspapers, reviewers, and award competitions. Amy also plans to perform at various venues and engage with librarians and teachers to promote the CD.

Future Plans and Hopes

Expanding the Series

Amy hopes the CD will bring joy to listeners and reach a wide audience. She envisions it as the first in a series, with plans already underway for the next installment. The collaborative spirit and dedication of everyone involved promise a bright future for "Tell Me a Story."

Supporting a Cause

A portion of the proceeds from the CD will be donated to Carrie-on, a day recreation facility for children with life-threatening illnesses. This charity holds a special place in Amy's heart, reflecting the light and hope that her stories aim to bring.

Conclusion

Amy Friedman's journey as a children's author is a testament to the power of storytelling and collaboration. Her work continues to inspire and delight readers of all ages, proving that stories have the ability to connect us all. For more information and to purchase the CD, visit CD Baby.

Sources:

1. Barnard College
2. City College of New York
3. Universal Press Syndicate

Interesting Stats:

• According to the American Library Association, children's book sales in the U.S. reached $2.1 billion in 2020, highlighting the enduring popularity of children's literature.
• A study by the National Endowment for the Arts found that children who are read to frequently are more likely to score higher in reading proficiency tests.

For more insights and updates on Amy Friedman's work, visit Bookpleasures.com.