TALKING EMPATHY WITH TODD PARR
Todd Parr is the author and illustrator of more than 60 books for children, including The I Love You Book, Be Who You Are, and The Thankful Book. He has inspired, empowered, and entertained millions of children around the world with his bold images, unique sense of humour, and inclusive storytelling. His books have received numerous awards and are available in 20 languages.
From January 20 to 29, MTYP is presenting Mermaid Theatre’s adaptation of three of Mr. Parr’s books, This is My Hair, The Earth Book, and It’s Okay to Be Different. This show marks the first time that Mermaid has adapted his books for the stage and we caught up with him to ask him a few questions.
Q You seem like an incredibly empathetic person. How did your life’s experiences shape you to become so kind?
A Thank you. I struggled so much as a kid, and early adult. I always remembered those who helped and were kind. I know what a difference this made in my life. My struggles inspire me to write about things to help maybe make things a little easier for others.
Q It’s Okay to Be Different was first published in 2001. How has the world changed since the book’s publication and why do you think the book’s message still resonates?
A The world caught up to me. There were not a lot of mainstream books available in 2001 about social emotional topics for very young kids. As the world seemingly got harder, and kids were getting information so much quicker, parents and educators started looking for tools to help them talk to kids in the simplest of ways.
Q It’s Okay to be Different is over 20-years-old! If you had the option of rewriting the book for young people today, are there any other “It’s Okay” statements you would add?
A There might be a few more topics I would touch upon, or try and make more clear. But for the most part, I think this book does exactly what it was meant to do. Empower kids to be confident, learn about respect and differences, and remind them to be kind.
Q Mermaid Theatre’s adaptations of children’s books have toured all over the world. Mermaid’s Artistic Director Jim Morrow said he loved adapting your stories because you don’t overwhelm your readers with too much detail, but leave a lot to their imaginations. And also because you celebrate diversity. Did you know about Mermaid Theatre before this production? How does it feel to have your stories come to life on stage in black light puppetry?
A I love what Mermaid Theatre does, and is all about. They tell a story so beautifully. I had not heard of them prior to our relationship now, but I do hope we can work together well beyond this current production. Jim really understands what my messages are, but it’s not easy taking them from a page of a book and bringing them to life.
Q How do you do research for your books? Do you eavesdrop on kids conversations? Or do you just cultivate a healthy inner child? Or both?
A I don’t do research. Everything pretty much comes from my life’s experiences and seeing the impact my books have on kids, and learning of other ways I can help make a difference.
Q What’s the funniest thing you have ever been asked by a young reader?
A I wish I had kept a list for all these years. Kids want to know a lot about my dogs, and do I like unicorns, what I have for dinner, did I go to school, have I ever lost a tooth, and, am I rich.
It’s Okay to Be Different – Stories by Todd Parr runs on the MTYP Mainstage from January 20-29. To book your tickets today, head here.
