Five Questions for Justin Campbell, Our New Blogger-in-Chief
This month, we’re excited to welcome author-illustrator and multi-talented creative Justin Campbell as the new writer and editor of the SCBWI Blog and Conference Blog! A native New Yorker, Justin is a professional actor, singer, dancer, choreographer—and now, he’s bringing that same dynamic energy to SCBWI. He’s previously blogged alongside longtime SCBWI blog leader Lee Wind, and he’s also an illustrator and pre-published children’s book author.
As a proud SCBWI member, Justin brings a fresh perspective and a passion for storytelling in all its forms. Want to know more about the creative mind behind the blog? We asked him five fun questions to help you get acquainted.
Learn more about Justin on his website.
If your creativity were a snack, what would it be, and what snack do you hope it never turns into?
This might be a Hot Take, but if my creativity were a snack, I’d want it to be Twizzlers and I would hope it never turned into Red Vines! But Twizzlers because they are classic, simple and sweet.
What's one trend or style you secretly love, and one you wish would disappear forever?
One trend or style that I secretly love is high waisted bell bottom pants with a '70s mustache. One I wish would disappear would have to be…plastic on the sofa! It’s okay, grandma! It’s been 50 years, you can enjoy the velvet couch. Basically any trend that prevents you from enjoying your life and the things it has to offer. Just don’t spill your drink on the upholstery.
Which children's book character would you like to be friends with?
Julian from Julian is a Mermaid by Jessica Love, hands down. We are basically the same person and I think we would have so much in common. Hours and hours of fun and mermaid make believe! So Julain or Roz from The Wild Robot by Peter Brown. Ugh! She is spectacular. So strong, concise, and compassionate, things I value and try my best to embody.
If your writing style were a genre of music, what would it be—and what genre would it definitely not be?
If my writing style were a genre of music, I think it would be R&B/ Pop/ Afro Beats. And as much as I like it, I don’t think my style of writing would be Rock. Maybe one day I’ll be that cool and edgy, but I think I’m more sultry and smooth—at least in my mind!
Which color makes your heart sing every time you use it—and which one gives you instant “meh” vibes?
Green is my favorite color, and it makes my heart sing every time I use it. Coral/Orange as well. Just think "ocean" and I'm obsessed with it. “Meh” vibes would have to be…red, maybe? I like red, but in the rank, it would be my last on the list.