Picture book author Corey Rosen Schwartz writes incredible read-alouds that make you laugh and think at the same time. Her rollicking rhymes and fractured fairy tales make for the perfect combination of action and story. My kids and I have loved and enjoyed not only her ninja books (The Three Ninja Pigs, Ninja Red Riding Hood, Hensel and Gretal, Ninja Chicks), but also her many other stories. We can't wait to read her upcoming book, Twinderella!
Not only is Corey an incredible writer, but she is also incredibly kind and helpful in the kidlit community. I'm thrilled to talk to her about mentor texts on ReFoReMo!
Were there any particular mentor texts that inspired you in the creation of Twinderella?
Yes, while I was writing Twinderella (back in 2010), I did some research to see what other Cinderella tales were out there. I read Cinder-Elly by Frances Minters, Cindy Ellen: A Wild Western Cinderella by Susan Lowell, and Prince Cinders by Babette Cole. But the one that really resonated with me was Cinder Edna by Ellen Jackson. This was the only other tale that had two main characters, the famous Cinderella and her neighbor Cinder Edna. I studied it to see how the author drew contrast between the two, so that I could make sure I established clear differences between Cinderella and her twin sister, Twinderella.
What do you feel is the BEST way for picture book writers to utilize mentor texts?
Thank you, Corey! And ReFoReMo family, what mentor texts are inspiring you right now?
TY for sharing these Cinderella versions and yours will be gobbled up by twins and teachers who love to do comparison/contrasts w/these books and have for years. I need to delineate between two MCs, so I will dip into some of the books you mentions, Corey.
ReplyDeleteI have a similar process. I like to just get my story onto paper in my own way first. No external influences affecting my decisions. Then I look for comparisons.
ReplyDeleteCinder Edna is a lot of fun! I also really liked Cendrillon, a Caribbean Cinderella story by Robert San Souci, with wonderful illustrations from Brian Pinkney! Congrats, Corey! Can't wait to read it!!
ReplyDeleteThank you for sharing! Lots of fun. I love reading mentor texts...but then try and make sure I don't borrow anything either! Gotta practice the studying them part though! :)
ReplyDeleteWhat fun to see all the versions. Congrats Corey❤️ Thank you Kirstine.
ReplyDeleteThank you, Corey, for sharing these mentor texts and tips for seeking them out. I can't wait to read TWINDERELLA :)
ReplyDeleteThank your Corey and Kristin for a wonderful interview and a list of mentor texts. I am excited to read this one.
ReplyDeleteJust discovered another new one coming this fall! Cinderella and the Furry Slippers: https://www.kirkusreviews.com/book-reviews/davide-cali/cinderella-and-the-furry-slippers/
ReplyDeleteThanks for sharing with us, Corey, and also for sharing another fracture tale here in the comments! :) Thanks for interviewing her, Kirsti!
ReplyDeleteI love hearing about mentor texts. Thanks for sharing.
ReplyDeleteThis comment has been removed by a blog administrator.
ReplyDeleteGreat post. I have Ellen's book Cinder Edna, and I ordered your new book, Corey!
ReplyDelete