Higher Ground by Tull Suwannakit

We were recently given the opportunity to read Tull Suwannakit’s beautiful book, Higher Ground. We had a few questions to ask Tull, please see the answers below.

How long did the book take you to create?

The entire book has taken me around 7 years to create, the longest I have ever undertaken on any project to date.  From finding the suitable ingredients for the story, to developing the multi -layered  story telling, which eventually, become a blend  of graphic novel, picture book, and diary entries.  These,  together with countless revisions of the manuscript and finding the right home for it, contributed to the prolonged creation of the book.

What are you most proud of with Higher Ground?

I am extremely proud to be able to create a sincere and honest book in the way that I wanted it to be told.  The book is  a reflection of my personal journey and the lessons I’ve learned while growing up, that encourages us to cherish every little moment in life and to find that silver linings in time of need.  To see the book as a teaching tool in providing readers with the notions of sustainability, resourcefulness and resilience in the face of adversity is something that I find it to be rewarding.    Additionally, to be able to collaborate on a book with the team that shares the same vision as you is the best gift any author could ask for:  my publisher, Sophia Whitfield, book designer, Verity Clark and editor, Tasha Evans.

What do you hope readers will take away from this story?

It is my hope that Higher Ground will encourage young readers to reflect on their own connections to nature, the importance of family values , and the fragile world around them. In a world that is constantly changing, these qualities are more important than ever. Perhaps the story’s central themes of hope, growth and resilience,  could offer readers a meaningful outlook to a more empathetic world we live in.

How do you think readers will relate to this story in light of the pandemic in 2020?

The restriction of mobility  and isolation  during the pandemic  that the world experienced are something that I think readers  can relate to on many levels.     In today’s world, where children are increasingly exposed to  challenges like climate change and global pandemic, courage,  hope,  and growth can  create an  empathetic point  of connection to readers of the  importance of family values and the appreciation of life through nature.

 

Views expressed do not necessarily reflect those of the Federation.