Her Story
About Marion
I have always found story because it's emotionally impactful and speaks to a feeling level as one of the most intriguing ways to approach searching for the meaning of our existence. I started out doing hard-hitting novels but transitioned to scientifically based, lyrically presented picture books. I entered the field in 1976 when 80 percent of purchasers were schools and libraries.
Her Interview
Ten minutes with Marion
01What do you attribute your success to?
The ability to stick to it and continuing to learn, continuing to stretch, and continuing to move into new areas throughout a long career.
02What advice would you give to young women entering your industry?
The main reason to write is because the writing feeds you. If it doesn't feed you in a deep way, you're not going to stay with it long enough to achieve anything. Have a kind of fire in your belly. And don't give up easily. Keep writing. Even if you're writing only for yourself, it'll still serve you.
03What are the biggest challenges or opportunities in your field right now?
Children's books are being over-published and wonderful books are lost every day. The market has shrunk because libraries have less money and must divide it with technology. On the opportunity side, the field which was totally white when I began now has a wide open door for all other cultures.
04What values are most important to you in your work and personal life?
A sense of community and the importance of the interconnected web of all existence, both human and beyond human.
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