Odette Jean Anderson
After over 25 years as a Kindergarten Teacher with a Bachelor of Education ECE, Odette Anderson is fulfilling a long-held dream of creating her own children’s books. Over the years of teaching, she has shared a sense of fun, with the aim of building children’s self-worth and confidence. These values are reflected in her books.
Writing and illustrating her stories, Odette gains inspiration from the children she teaches – treasuring their joy, learning, and curiosity. With an appreciation for the miracles of nature, she develops quirky characters that add colour to the pages.
Odette has always had a strong sense of justice and compassion – especially for children, the vulnerable, and our planet. Through her books she hopes to strengthen respect for others and the world around us, to ignite even a little spark of light.
Do you try more to be original, or to deliver to readers what they want?
Whilst I am aware of my audience – children mainly, although I know adults have enjoyed my books – it is important for me to be authentic and write from my experiences. My stories are my ideas and the lens through which I see the world.
What is it about your chosen genre that you love?
I adore children’s picture books as they bring forth magical worlds of fun and learning. They have been a passion of mine for many moons (my collection is quite large!) I also love how many children’s books reflect a sense of familiarity to the reader which can help children understand the world around them and/or navigate big emotions/feelings.
Dr Seuss books always inspire me as they are alive with whimsical illustrations, often conveying important messages.
How do you select the names of your characters?
I think about the traits of a particular character, or the drawings I do inspire me to create their names.
What was the first book that made you cry?
Black Beauty by Anna Sewell
If you had to do something differently as a child or teenager to become a better writer as an adult, what would you do?
Believe in myself more and venture out more confidently to experience and explore – both the world in general but also writing and artistic groups.
Are there any secrets in your books that only a few people will find? Can you tell us one? Or give us any hints?
Yes, but not really secrets – more so that adults may notice certain spiritual beliefs I have. For example, the Law of Attraction and concepts like ego/enlightenment.
Did you ever consider writing under a pseudonym? Why?
Yes. To retain my privacy.