David O'Connell on Beastie Bros and funny books for kids

The book we've sent out Parakeet subscribers this month is a hilarious, highly illustrated early chapter book packed with minibeasts, mystery and mayhem. With cartoon-style illustrations throughout, a cast of wacky minibeast characters and bags of humour, Beastie Bros was an easy pick for our boxes. It's the first in a brand new series and perfect for newly independent readers. Here author-illustrator David O'Connell tells us about being inspired by the minibeasts in his garden and which other funny books for kids he recommends you read next.

What inspired you to write Beastie Bros?

 I wrote and illustrated my first published series about thirteen years ago, but since then I've either written books that have been illustrated by others, or illustrated books written by others. I wanted to get back to doing a whole book, pictures and text, and fill it with everything I've learned about making books since that first series. I wanted to make something that was fun and visually engaging, and a bit different-looking to other chapter books. I'm a keen gardener and love watching the bugs living out their lives so I thought it would make a great subject for a book of that kind. Bugs are great fun to draw and I had a chance to create a whole world for them too. I loved making this book!

Which character did you most enjoy writing and why?

I love Dribble the snail because he's most like me. Grumpy and a bit self-important! Also, there's nothing easier to draw than a snail which makes my life a lot simpler.

Which came first, the story, characters, or illustrations?

The characters came first, in drawn form. Drawing helps to flesh out their personality quickly in my head. It would take longer if I was relying on words alone. The story went through several versions before I found a plot I liked that suited the characters.

What would you display in a museum of cool things?

All the things I listed in the Beastie Bros book are things I genuinely think would be cool! I also have a cool dog who would definitely draw in the crowds but I don't think she would appreciate being put on display. Moustaches are cool, so anything with a moustache, the longer and curlier the better.

What was your favourite book as a child?

There were a lot of Enid Blyton books around when I was a child in the 1970s. I think The Magic Faraway Tree was a favourite because it was so utterly bonkers. I devoured Ladybird books, particularly the fairy tale and history ones. Comics were important too, and still have a big influence on me.

Why did you choose to create books for this age group?

The 6-10 age group is great to write for. They like funny, straightforward stories, but at the same time that age group is quite sophisticated in their dialogue and humour. They listen to their parents and recognise when I'm making fun of grown-up behaviour with my characters. They're also fearless. When I do school visits they're ready to engage and dive into activities with enthusiasm.

Do you have a favourite place to write and illustrate?

I have a studio/office in the attic of my house. I need quiet to work so I can shut myself away there and happily get on with things. My dog has a bed under my desk so she comes up and spends most of the day with me - fast asleep and usually snoring loudly, but I don't mind it.

Which other funny books for younger readers would you recommend our subscribers read next?

 Dadbot by Jack Noel is a fun graphic novel that's recently come out. I love Jack's drawing style. The Julius Zebra series by Gary Northfield is a favourite because of their mix of humour and history. Dungeon Runners by Kieran Larwood is a funny book series for fantasy fans and gamers too, with brilliant illustrations by Joe Todd-Stanton.

Copies of our Beastie Bros pack, including a copy of the book and loads of fun activities to go with it, are now available for individual purchase. Grab a copy while stocks last!

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