Patricia Tanumihardja: Breaking the Rules
KidLit Craft is back with another Snack-Sized Author Interview. In this series, we ask authors five quick questions that give us insight into their craft and process. Today we’re talking with author Patricia Tanumihardja.
I first met Pat in one of the very first picture book classes I ever took. I loved her stories that incorporated culture, food, and family with curious child characters. We formed a critique group with some fellow students, and we’ve been meeting regularly ever since. Pat is thoughtful, kind, and as curious as her picture book characters.
Welcome, Pat!
Question 1: What's your writing superpower?
I come up with story ideas all the time! Now if only I could turn them into actual stories/manuscripts as easily... :)
Question 2: What’s an element of craft you explored in your latest project and what tips can you share with other authors for growing in their use of that particular element?
You may have heard time and time again to make room for the illustrator when writing a picture book manuscript. On my most recent project, the illustrator and I worked very closely together to craft a dummy to submit to editors. And I really enjoyed the experience!
It was great to be able to bounce ideas off each other and she gave me very helpful suggestions on where the text could be trimmed and/or edited because the illustrations could carry the story. And vice versa. I was able to give her feedback on the illustrations and/or clarify my text where needed.
If your agent can pair you with an illustrator right from the beginning, I highly recommend it!
Question 3: If you could travel back in time, what advice would you give yourself as a new author?
Don't be afraid to break the rules. I think it's important to learn what the rules are. But if you find they don't apply to you, or if you want to try something off the beaten path, do it!
Question 4: What inspires you as a writer?
Art and travel. I never fail to be inspired when I experience either or both at the same time!
Question 5: What’s one book you think every kidlit author should read?
I don't think there is only one book. Everyone is different and has different tastes and ways of learning and absorbing info. I think I've benefited from the cumulative avalanche of books I've read over the years!
Bonus Question: What can fans look forward to next?
I have 4 picture books under contract and hopefully they will be published over the next 2-3 years. Up next is a Lunar New Year themed story teeming with zodiac animals which also has food elements, of course! Look out for it in November 2025.
Patricia (Pat) Tanumihardja grew up a third culture kid, forever curious about the world around her and her place in it. Born in Jakarta and raised in Singapore, her Indonesian Chinese parents encouraged her appetites for both delicious foods and good books. As a writer, Pat’s work explores food, culture, and self. Her fun, heartwarming stories often echo her lived experiences buoyed by universal themes. Her debut children's book Ramen for Everyone was a JLG Gold Selection, and was soon followed by Jimmy’s Shoes and The Sugar Plum Bakers. Today, Pat writes both children’s books and cookbooks from her home in Northern Virginia where she lives with her husband and son. Don’t be shy to hit her up for some favorite recipes!
You can find her online on her website and on Instagram @ediblewords
Related Articles:
