Helen wrote the poems
ASRAI, and MEDUSA’S MOP
Gnome & UnGnome Facts About Helen:
Helen Kampion writes poetry, picture books, and middle-grade novels. She has published stories in magazines, and anthologies, and written non-fiction articles for The National Children’s Book and Literacy Alliance (NCBLA, thencbla.org) where she serves as Treasurer.
In addition to an MBA from Boston University, Helen holds an MFA in Writing for Children and Young Adults from Vermont College. She lives with her husband and two cats (her “mews”) in Massachusetts. When she’s not scribbling away, you’ll find her curled up with a book, a cat, and a nice hot cup of tea.
Helen has poems included in the Writers’ Loft Press’ anthologies, AN ASSORTMENT OF ANIMALS, and FRIENDS & ANEMONES.
Absol’s Q&A with Helen:
Hello Helen! Thanks for being our LEGEND of the WEEK!
Tell us what magical or legendary creature you’d be if you could, and why?
Pegasus. What could be better than being a flying horse? You get the best of traveling by land or air.
Being a gnome is better (I think). Two sturdy feet on the ground. But I get it, you humans love to fly.
This is not your first Writers’ Loft anthology, right?
I was lucky enough to be part of previous anthologies, An Assortment of Animals and Friends and Anemones-Ocean Poems for Children, so I jumped at the chance to be part of these fabulous books once again.
Tell me how you came to write about Medusa (eeech!) and the beautiful Asrai? Your Medusa poem makes me petrified with laughter.
Medusa with all her snakes has always creeped me out so she came to mind right away when thinking about mythological creatures. My poem is about her having a bad hair day!
My other poem, Asrai, is about a water fairy from Britain. Born in England I wanted to find a little-known subject. My research led me to this fragile creature who must remain in water.
What’s something writing-related you are grateful for?
I’m beyond excited about my debut picture book bio, co-authored with fellow Vermont College grad, Renee Lyons, scheduled for launch in the Fall of 2024 by Sleeping Bear Press. It’s been a long time coming and is truly a case of never giving up!
Helen, that’s so exciting! I look forward to reading it to my 200+ grandkids.
You’ve been a member of The Writers’ Loft for a long time! Why is it important to you?
The Writer’s Loft is a community and in this isolated world of writing, a place that brings writers together is a godsend. Plus the classes and events offer us a chance to hone our craft. The facility is fantastic and provides a location to interact, write, or just relax.
Yay! Thanks for your time, Helen!
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