Veronica Petrie

Q: What did you want to be when you were a child?

I must admit it never occurred to me NOT to do something art related when I grew up. I drew constantly as a child and I just knew that is what I wanted to do. I think I could have been richer if I'd done something else for a living, but drawing makes me happy and I love my work - that's better than money!

Q: Which three words describe you best?

Erratic, dreamer, hopeful

Q: What is your favourite word?

Fortuitous!

Q: What do you do as a hobby?

I play the harp, tend to my many four legged friends, go horse riding when I can and attempt to knit (little animals and big throws!).

Q: What is your most treasured possession?

My sketchbook and my children, not necessarily in that order...

Q: What’s your favourite food?

mozzarella, basil and sunblush tomatoes together on one plate.

Q: What do you day dream about?

Right now? Mozzarella, basil and sunblush tomatoes together on one plate. Mmmmmm

Q: What’s the most outrageous thing you’ve done?

I couldn't possibly say!

Q: If you could meet one person, dead or alive, who would it be?

Sid Vicious, but I'd probably (actually definitely) be too scared to talk to him.

Q: What makes you cringe?

Suddenly remembering one of my embarrassing moments (and there are LOTS).

Q: What are you afraid of?

Earwigs... yeuch.

Q: When did you last have a really good laugh?

Last night! I found a site that only has photos featuring Tom Selleck, a waterfall and a sandwich. It's pointless, hilarious and utterly genius!

Q: Do you feel younger or older than your current age?

Much, much younger. I think everyone does though, unless you are four...

Q: What is the most interesting place you have ever visited?

Barcelona - it is the most beautiful, lively, vibrant and artistic place I have ever visited. My spiritual home.

Q: What were you like at school?

In primary school, very good. In secondary school, very bad. I like to think I can see both sides...

Q: What was your favourite book as a child?

A huge Richard Scarry story book. My favourite was about Pierre Bear, the greatest hunter of the North! It absolutely horrifies me now, as he basically goes finding the most majestic animals and shooting them!

Q: What book do you wish you had written?

Where The Wild Things Are by Maurice Sendak

Q: What advice would you give to aspiring authors?

I'm an illustrator not a writer, but my advice would be the same. Just do it - write or illustrate constantly, for yourself and because it's what you want to do. Sooner or later the world will take note!