Meet Samuel Langley-Swain
Today, I am thrilled to be joined on the Bookshelf by Samuel Langley-Swain, author and founder of Owlet Press whose books are just delightful. Samuel’s new book, ‘Where Bjorn Belongs’ is a heart-warming, tender story- perfect for this time of year!
1. You are the founder of ‘Owlet Press’, a very inclusive publisher. Why did you choose the name ‘Owlet’?
I was inspired by the symbolic ‘wise old owl’ which is often used in books and in publishing for that matter. I thought about how our books should give children different types of wisdom, helping them grow into ‘owls’ and so Owlet was born. Amazingly the name wasn’t already taken, so it was obviously meant to be!
2. What three words would you choose to describe Owlet Press to someone who doesn’t know you?
Small – we’re one of the smallest presses in the market – a one-man business with a tiny team of fantastic freelance experts. I think often people don’t realise that. The performance of each book has a direct impact on my livelihood, which means any support means so much.
Honest – our books deal with some quite impactful themes, and we approach them with an authenticity that feels respectful to the children who might have those lived experiences. I’m also very open about the trials of being a micro-business within the publishing industry.
Brave – we publish books that other publishers may consider too risky, or niche. For us, we obviously need to survive, but the social need for the book often outweighs the commercial security of a concept. We also need courage to keep trading in changing and challenging markets.
3. ‘Where Bjorn Belongs’ is a beautiful book about friendship and belonging. It starts when a little boy called Arthur loses his favourite toy, a polar bear called Barney. Did you have a toy which offered you comfort when you were young?
I did – I had a small white dog with black ears. It’s one of the only items I still have from my childhood, although it’s up in the attic somewhere and looks a bit sorry for itself after over 35 years!
4. Your words are beautifully brought to life through Mirna Imamovic’s lovely work. Which of her illustrations in ‘Bjorn’ is your favourite?
Oh, yes! Her artwork is simply stunning and everything I wanted for this story. I absolutely adore the image of Arthur falling asleep in Björn’s arms, in the open door of the fridge, before his friend is whisked away on Christmas eve.
5. If you could only choose one book (JUST ONE!) to recommend to others, what would it be- and why?
Well, if it was one of mine, then it would be ‘The Blanket Bears’ which helps children and families understand what it means to be adopted, which would help them grow up to be kinder to those who have been on that journey. If it’s ANY book, it would have to be ‘The Comfort Book’ by Matt Haig – I’ve taken a lot from that personally.
6. What can you tell me about the next book we can expect from you?
Well . . . it’s very different to Where Bjorn Belongs – it features a lot of dancing animals, a mixture of body types and abilities, and the theme of being treated like an outsider.
7. And lastly - and most importantly according to my niece - what is your favourite cake?
The hardest question of all! As I’m Welsh, it has to be bara brith (or a simply spiced tea loaf) with a generous wave of butter.
Thank you so much to Samuel for answering my questions. Not sure about your taste in cake, but I’m really looking forward to your next book!
I would highly recommended everyone exploring the Owlet Press website www.owletpress.com to discover more about the amazing books they offer. The thought and care put in to each one is obvious, making them very special.
Where Björn Belongs by Samuel Langley-Swain, illustrated by Mirna Imamovic, is published by Owlet Press. Out now, £7.99 paperback.
You can read my review of ‘Where Bjorn Belongs’ here and my reviews of two other Owlet Press titles, ‘Me, in the Middle’ here and ‘The Whale Watchers’ here.
