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SOMETHING FOR EVERYBODY AN INTERVIEW WITH EVANSTON-BASED AUTHOR LIZ SURLIN GORDON BY GREGG SHAPIRO THE NORTH SHORE WEEKEND
During these uncertain COVID-19 pandemic days, people are finding creative and fulfilling ways to cope, as well as to fill the days while we shelter in place. Liz Surlin Gordon, a writer based in Evanston, came up with an idea to help her young grandson Lev, as well as readers of all ages. In her e-book, Where Is Everybody?, she writes about little brown bear, Teddy, who doesn’t understand why all of his favorite activities have suddenly come to a stop. Lucky for Teddy, he has loving parents who are able to put his mind at ease. I spoke with Liz about the inspiration for the book, being a “Mooma,” and what she likes best about Evanston. I’d like to begin by asking you to say a few words about your writing background. I’ve always loved books and have been writing ever since I can remember. I wrote a lot of poetry, essays, and short stories as a child through early adulthood. But as they say, life got in the way, and being busy with family and career I put writing aside until after my kids were grown. With the help of a wonderful mentor, I started writing poetry again. Now, as a retired empty-nester, I primarily write children’s books. Who do you consider to be influences on your work when it comes to writing for a young audience? I absolutely adored the Madeline books as a young child. The verse, engaging drawings, and Parisian settings were magical to me. I also loved the Curious George books, but probably my favorite book was Caps for Sale, by Esphyr Slobodkina. It’s a sweet, simple tale of how a solution that seems impossible can be right in front of you. Lessons are often easier learned from stories, and I’ve always loved books that make you think. What can you tell me about the genesis of Where Is Everybody? We’re very involved in our 21-monthold grandson, Lev’s, life. I’m his part-
Liz Surlin Gordon
time caregiver and we’ve always seen him a few days a week. He also goes to daycare part-time, has playdates with friends, loves the slide and swings at the playground, and goes to Wiggleworms music classes at Old Town School of Music. He’s a busy little Continued on PG 8