Behind the Scenes With Tracey West

If your characters could critique you, what would they say?

“Do you think we could get a vacation, maybe? We’ve been saving the world nonstop for 11 years.”

What’s the strangest thing in your workspace?

“My almost-life-sized Snorlax floor pillow, which has become the favourite napping spot for my three dogs.”

What’s one thing every great bedtime story needs?

“A happy ending, so that you can drift off to sleep peacefully. Although Dragon Masters chapters end on cliffhangers, which are more likely to lead to vivid dreams.”

What was your favourite book as a child?

“Harriet the Spy by Louise Fitzhugh. I could relate to a girl who wanted to be a writer and had an interest in the people around her. I created a toolbelt like hers with spy equipment and, to this day, a tomato sandwich is my very favourite.”

What book title best describes your life?

“Cranky Chicken by Katherine Battersby. Because being cranky and fearful are two qualities I’ve had to work hard to overcome. Also, outside the window where I write every day are lots of chickens who make cranky sounds as they argue over who will get to eat the biggest worm.”