Children's Picture Book
Date Published: 06-01-2023
Publisher: Storytellin' Time Press
Interview with MARY JO HUFF
Could you tell us about any research trips you took for this story? Which places did you visit, and what made them essential to your writing?
I did not have to take any research trips because I was raised in the country and we had chickens. I subscribe to a Hobby Farms publication – CHICKENS and it is filled with chicken information.
What's the strangest thing you've ever had to research online for your book?
The most important research was about getting the best meter and rhyme for my book. After many classes I am now very critical of books that claim to rhyme.
What research (history, mythology, science) goes into your world-building?
I have a very diverse world. As the director of an Early Childhood center with 115 children, I learned firsthand what children love about books. I have worked in 47 states as a trainer for Early Childhood educators and continue to this day. Visiting centers and presenting stories, music, and puppets is still part of my world. I am also an avid I.U. (National Champs) football fan, I am a 50 yard line momma.
Have any of the people you've known, past or present, left a lasting impression on your writing journey? If so, we'd love to hear about a memorable experience that stands out to you.
Yes, Dr. Pam Schiller influenced me with her brain research and the connection to music, stories and understanding young children. Chicken Fun was first a song that has been shared with thousands and then became a book. Dr. Schiller urged me to take this step. I have many songs that could be a book, but it takes time and money. Also, I found a musician in Ft. Wayne, IN, Jim Coffey, who understands me and my world. We have worked together for over 30 years, and he gets what I want.
\Do you write in the same genre all the time?
Right now, I am only writing in the fiction, picture book genre. In the past I wrote resource books for a Monday Morning, Gryphon House and the Frog Street curriculum along with many articles in Early Childhood publications. I have two novels in my computer but I’m not sure if they will ever move off the screen. One is about being a 50 yard line momma and the other one is me as a road warrior.
If so, have you ever consider writing in another one?
I consider it all the time but life is on the short end for me and I will probably run out of time in this life.
Which character, supernatural or human, do you enjoy writing the most and why?
I am not interested in supernatural, dealing with the real world is hard enough. I enjoy writing about animals and my animals can talk, walk and be silly, because children love them.
Children giggle and grow with her stories — from the mischievous adventures of No, No, Ebenezer, a spirited dachshund with a big heart, to the playful journeys in Chicken Fun, Going on a Gator Hunt, and The Predictable Persimmon.
As a seasoned educator and master storyteller, Mary Jo has inspired audiences in 47 states and three countries, sharing her love of language through staff development sessions, author visits, and children’s programs that burst with laughter, learning, and joy.
A dynamic keynote speaker, Mary Jo has graced Early Childhood conferences nationwide, leading hundreds of high-energy workshops and professional development events. With a heart for nurturing both children and teachers, she draws on 38 years as a center director — where she guided a team and cared for 115 bright, curious young minds every day.
Through every story, song, and puppet, Mary Jo invites children and educators alike to discover the wonder of storytelling and the power it must connect hearts, spark creativity, and make learning unforgettable.
Twitter: Mary Jo Huff
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