Entirely Emmie by Terri Libenson

We recently asked graphic novel creator, Terri Libenson a few questions about her Emmie & Friends series!

This is the ninth book in the series and it is really popular in schools and libraries- how do you continue to come up with ideas and life events for the characters?

I’m so glad to hear! I tend to draw on my kids’ and my own experiences for many of the stories, as well as my personal feelings from my time as a preteen. Although I don’t remember the day-to-day things I did back then, I recall a lot of the emotions I had (huge!). I guess I’m just stuck at twelve.

Also, sometimes simply pairing certain characters together inspires stories. Partnering Emmie and Joe, who are total opposites and who don’t really like each other, was the perfect catalyst for funny, tense, drama-filled situations. It also inspired ways to have them navigate a new partnership (they are reluctantly paired up for outdoor activities) and build trust.

How long does each book take to write and illustrate?

Usually, it takes about 2-3 months to write the story/script, another few weeks of edits, about two months of initial sketches, and then 5-6 months for the final art. So, all in all, almost a year total, which works since I have tight yearly deadlines.

Do you have a long term plan for Emmie and Friends?

I plan to write a few more books in the series, and then we’ll see after that!

Do you have a favourite character from the series?

I don’t have a favorite one per se (they’re all close to my heart), but Emmie may be the closest. She was modeled after my painfully shy, quiet, artistic self around age 13. I wrote my first book, INVISIBLE EMMIE, as a tribute to my former preteen self and for kids who felt like they had a voice but completely went unnoticed.

Are any characters based on your own friends and family?

Other than Emmie (see above), Brianna is a character who was loosely based on my elementary school best friend. She was sweet and quiet like me but loved to boss me around!

My daughters show up in some of my more outspoken characters (luckily, they weren’t shy like I was). I do feel like I put bits and pieces of myself in many of my characters. Sarah also resembles that people-pleasing, diplomatic side of me.

What do you want readers to take away from reading this series?

First, I’d love to leave them laughing. Humor is such an integral part of these books. I also try to build empathy by showing there’s more to each character than meets the eye — just like real people. Lastly, I try to create realistic characters kids can relate to, learn from, and help them feel like they’re not alone with their problems.

Why do you think graphic novels are so important for young readers?

I believe there are many kinds of readers and graphic novels are great for all of them. Avid readers can simply enjoy a different type of book than prose. Reluctant readers tend to like the visual “breaks” between words (and GNs are a great gateway to all kinds of reading), and visual readers — like myself when I was a kid — love the illustrations, pacing, and relationship of words and images.

I always say if a graphic novel gets a kid to read, let them read it! They are legitimate, important books.

What advice would you share for anyone wanting to create their own graphic novels?

I have some workshops, videos, and guides on my website [www.terrilibenson.com] that may help a young creator get started. In the meantime, here’s some general advice:

1. Write and draw what YOU’RE passionate about, not what you think others may like. That will keep your work authentic and enjoyable.

2. Break up the writing/art into small steps. That’ll make the process less intimidating. For example, when I write, I usually only tackle 1-2 chapters a day. When I illustrate, I’ll do about three pages a day at the most.

3. If you’re stuck, it’s okay to step away for a while. Sometimes I leave my work alone for days or weeks if I can. That way, when I return to it, I’ll see everything with fresh eyes.

4. HAVE FUN!!