Anna Horbatenko

Interestingly, my academic background is not directly linked to either Asia or writing; I hold a Master’s degree in Law. It’s often said that every lawyer harbors a secret dream of becoming a writer, and in my case, that seems to be true!

My passion for foreign languages and literature steered me towards the path of an author. My love for Asian culture started quite unexpectedly, initially sparked by an interest in South Korean music and renowned dramas. Yes, it’s my guilty pleasure that has grown to be a significant part of my life. This interest led me to start learning the Korean language, which further deepened my appreciation for Korean and broader Asian cultures. As a big fan of fairy tales, I was naturally drawn to Asia's rich and captivating folklore, which has become a profound source of inspiration in my writing.

What inspires me in storytelling is exploring the untold stories: those characters that haven't been fully explained or moments that have been overlooked. I often find myself pondering the potential roles of these sidelined characters in well-known narratives or imagining alternative scenarios where events unfold differently. This helps to reexamine familiar stories with a fresh perspective, often adapting them to modern contexts and addressing real-world issues.

I'm particularly drawn to Asian folklore because it often presents bold and unexpected narratives, especially for American or European readers. These stories can be quite a rollercoaster, offering surprising twists and profound insights. Asian folklore also frequently embodies a deep wisdom and philosophical depth. It emphasizes values like the importance of honest work and the belief that such efforts will ultimately be rewarded, principles that I sincerely resonate with. These aspects of Asian culture deeply influence my storytelling, adding layers of complexity and richness to the narratives.

Reading is not just an escape from everyday life but a portal to incredible, boundless worlds. I believe if someone doesn't enjoy reading, they probably haven't found the right book yet. In my own reading and travels, I seek comfort blended with a touch of magic, and honestly, the presence of dragons wouldn't hurt either. Reading fuels creativity, igniting all the vital mechanisms that allow my imagination to soar. It's like sprinkling fairy dust on my ideas, giving them a sense of familiar comfort and warmth.

This combination of literary inspiration and the spirit of wanderlust plays a crucial role in crafting as they feed my creativity, enabling me to weave fantastical and relatable narratives.

I can’t say that these were any specific places or moments, not yet. But Prague has become a city of discovery for me and a constant source of inspiration; its magical fairy-tale atmosphere makes me return there repeatedly in a search of those inspiring worlds.

I am a romantic at heart and firmly believe in the limitless potential of human capabilities. Limitations are often self-imposed, residing in our minds. Hence, my stories emphasize the importance of thinking outside the box, allowing ourselves to dream, and believing in the seemingly impossible. But belief alone isn't enough; it's crucial to actively work towards realizing our dreams. This friendship of faith and action is a recurring theme in my work.

I aim to convey to my readers, especially the younger ones, that they are the architects of their lives and realities. Starting from an early age, it's essential to nurture and hold onto big dreams and not abandon them. My characters often embody this ethos; even if they seem lost initially, they find their path through hard work and perseverance, ultimately achieving their goals. This narrative arc is designed to inspire and remind readers of all ages that dreams can indeed become reality with belief and effort.

When I incorporate animals into my stories, it's crucial to ensure that their character traits align well with their real-life counterparts. However, I also enjoy adding a touch of mysticism and my own creative spin to these characters, offering a fresh perspective on familiar animals.

In 'Little Bunny and the Big Race,' the animals are not just characters; they embody various virtues and challenges that children can relate to. The choice of a bunny as the main character was deliberate, as it resonates with themes of agility, perseverance, and shyness, which are central to the story. I also make it a point to observe animals, learn about them, and draw inspiration from their behaviors and traits.

As an author, it's crucial to have a comprehensive understanding of the world you're creating, down to the finest detail. This depth of knowledge is necessary even though many of these details may never directly appear in the story. Their presence, or the knowledge of them, is what makes the world function believably and cohesively.

In my approach to world-building, I balance imaginative freedom with logical consistency. While children's books offer an excellent canvas for creativity and fantasy, ensuring everything is connected, logical, and explainable is essential. Unanswered questions or gaps in the narrative can disrupt the reader's immersion. Therefore, I strive to create worlds where children can find answers within the text, through the illustrations, or be inspired to draw their own conclusions.

I have a notebook of ideas where I throw down different thoughts, ideas, sketches, quotes, and everything that sparks inspiration. And periodically, I look through these materials in search of something new because, most often, what later turns into a book is already an old idea; it just needs to be given a little time to brew like a good dish.

Once an idea catches my attention, I start by drafting an outline and noting any scenes that are already clear in my mind. This phase involves experimenting with styles and searching for the right narrative voice. Following this, I build upon the initial scenes, adding others and adjusting them to see how they fit together. This process continues until I have a complete first draft.

It's important to note that the first draft usually undergoes significant changes before it becomes the final product. After completing it, I set it aside for a while. This break allows me to detach from the work and return later with a fresh perspective. When I revisit the draft, I edit, refine, and shape it into its final version.

Neil Gaiman's work has profoundly influenced me, particularly his ability to craft captivating atmospheres across various genres. His book 'Stardust,' with its fairy-tale world and the author's engaging narrative voice, has been a significant source of inspiration. The way he weaves fantasy with reality while maintaining a unique voice is something I strive to emulate in my own writing.

I'm also greatly influenced by Terry Pratchett's work. His use of humor is exemplary and is essential in storytelling. Pratchett's ability to infuse wit and humor into his narratives and his perspective on life and self-reflection have shaped my belief that humor should be an integral part of every story. It adds a layer of relatability and enjoyment, both for the writer and the reader.

I don't believe in writer's block in its traditional sense. In my experience, what's often labeled as writer's block is usually a result of fatigue, pressure, or simply struggling to find the perfect word or phrase. When something feels off with a scene, I experiment by shifting it to a different setting or writing it from another character's perspective to see whose voice fits best. Listening to your characters is crucial; they often guide the narrative and indicate what should happen next. If I'm still stuck, I step away and engage in mundane tasks like doing the dishes. This not only gives me a break but also often helps in alleviating some of the day's pressure. Even if it doesn't directly resolve the creative block, it provides a moment of respite, which can be just as valuable.

Walking outdoors is a crucial one. I make it a point to walk for at least 40 minutes each day, and on weekends, I extend this to about 2-3 hours. It's a break from the daily grind that lets me clear my mind, relax, and reset.

Another effective practice I employ is creating dashboards. These visual boards are images, quotes, and notes that inspire me and help clear my vision for a new world or story. They are instrumental in maintaining a flow of inspiration and serve as an excellent reference tool for illustrators when I collaborate on projects. This visual approach to organizing my thoughts and ideas helps me stay focused and keeps my creativity flowing.

Of course, I am only at the beginning of my journey. Still, one of the most memorable moments is the support of friends and family. It's amicable and motivating and helps me to keep going.

I also love watching the reactions of kids who look at or read my book - it's an incredible feeling because you know you're making them smile and experience many emotions.

I ensure that each aspect of my life receives the attention it deserves through careful time management and setting clear boundaries. However, I've learned that it's crucial not to overlook the importance of rest. Often, it's during these quieter moments of relaxation that the best ideas emerge. Taking time to step back and give myself some space is integral to my creative process.

Yet, creativity is not just about waiting for inspiration; it's also about discipline. Writing that first draft is essential, even when the creative impulse feels elusive. It's a balance of waiting for inspiration and actively seeking it through consistent effort.

Equally important is the time spent with loved ones. They are not mere additions to my schedule but fundamental components of my life. They keep me grounded and sane. Recognizing their significance, I ensure that amidst the busyness of deadlines and writing, I dedicate quality time and all my attention to them.

I can't reveal any specific details, but I can give a hint: Ireland and Celtic influence. This is precisely one of the ideas from that notebook I have already mentioned. It has long been in my heart and thoughts, so it's time to bring it to life.

I feel happy and comfortable here. It is a beautiful portal with a friendly atmosphere and fascinating new people. The impressions are delightful. I love being part of this big, magical family.