198: Get in the Garden with Christy Mandin

Christy Mandin is a New York Times bestselling children's book author, illustrator, and surface designer. She grew up in rural Georgia and credits her country life of solitude as an only child for much of her love of books and nature. You'll find this love of nature along with nostalgia, magic, and whimsy woven into the fabric of her art. When she isn't drawing she can be found quilting, gardening, beekeeping, or cozied up with a cup of coffee and the latest period drama on BBC or PBS. Christy currently lives in Georgia with her husband, 4 children, and a menagerie of animals and insects. Summary In this engaging conversation, Tricia and Christy Mandin explore the creative process behind Christy's latest children's book, discussing the iterative nature of writing, the importance of collaboration, and the practicalities of finding time to write amidst a busy life. They dig into themes of community and belonging as reflected in the book's gardening motif, and Christy shares insights on connecting with young readers and the joy of storytelling. Learn more: https://www.christymandin.com/books