Meet Our Mentors: Liz Garton Scanlon

Hello, Liz!

Liz Garton Scanlon is the author of numerous beloved books for young people, including the highly-acclaimed, Caldecott-honored picture book, All the World, two middle-grade novels, and an upcoming chapter book series. Liz serves on the faculty of the Vermont College of Fine Arts and lives in Austin, Texas. 

Your favorite book of all time?

This question feels like a cross between an escape room and a Zen koan. Here's a sampling: Ann Patchett's State of Wonder, Yaa Gyasi's Homegoing, Maggie O'Farrell's Hamnet and Charlotte Bronte's Jane Eyre.

Your favorite children's book? 

EB White's Charlotte's Web. But I adore everything by Erin Entrada Kelly, Rebecca Stead, Marla Frazee, Grace Lin...

The book by your bed right now?

Rez Ball, by Byron Graves.

What is your go-to writing/editing snack? 

Popcorn. Fizzy water. Trail mix as long as there's chocolate in there!

Best movie you've watched this year? 

Oh, my goodness. We just watched The Taste of Things, with Juliette Binoche. It's exquisite. Also ADORED Reservation Dogs.

You're the go-to mentor for? 

Getting to the heart of the matter and making sure the story sings (whether picture books, chapter book or middle grade.) I'll also offer you feedback that includes big picture commentary around narrative throughlines, character development and motivation, scene-summary balance, etc., along with particular, line- and language-oriented observations.

Coffee or tea? 

Coffee in the morning, herbal tea after noon, because ideally I'd like to sleep at night.

Secret talent? 

I shuffle cards well, and I make a mean pavlova.

What would you say to a writer considering our mentorship program? 

Be curious, be brave, have fun!