New Zealand Writers
DUNCAN, Tracy
Whether writing or illustrating, I am conscious of trying to create a sense of place, a celebration of our unique ‘New Zealand-ness’, our rich multi-cultural heritage.
- Tracy Duncan
DUNCAN, Tracy (1971 – ) is a Nelson-based writer and illustrator of children’s books. Many of the books she writes and illustrates are written in Maori and English. Books such as My Maori Shapes, My Maori Alphabet and My Maori Numbers, use bright, strong shapes and colours to encourage a love and knowledge of Maori language in younger readers.
Duncan is the illustrator of the very successful Nanny Mihi series (written by Melanie Drewery), about two little children and their visits to their grandmother’s house. A review in Magpies Vol 19, November 2004 noted that in Nanny Mihi’s Treasure Hunt ‘Tracy Duncan’s illustrations reinforce the focus on character … her wonderful pastel textures are impressive and the drawings are full of life’.
In Glow Worm Night, with writer Don Long, Duncan captures children enjoying the night time New Zealand bush and nocturnal animals for the first time. Reviewer Anne McAuley writes that ‘a special feature of Duncan’s pictures is the night time darkness and wonderment in the faces of the children and their parents as they experience the bush and the nga whetu – the stars’ (Marlborough Express, 21 June 2004).
Other books by Tracy Duncan include The Man who Loved the Sea (written by Duncan and illustrated by Jonathan Huntley), a story about the pollution and overfishing of the ocean, and an old man who wants to help save the sea for future generations; and Grandad’s Medals, (written by Duncan, illustrated by Bruce Potter), which tells the story of a child and his war veteran grandfather attending an Anzac Day parade.
(KM)
Updated Information
Tracy Duncan was selected to take up a Wild Creations residency in 2007. She plans to spend her six-week residency at Karamea researching the stories of early settlers to develop an adventure script for young readers.
Duncan has recently released Mere McKaskill's Boil-up (Reed, 2007.) A simple shopping trip sees Mere coming home with the whole neighbourhood, waiting to taste her famous boil-up!
A 2008 title for Duncan is Kei te Pehea Koe? How do you feel? Graeme Beattie says 'I just love the illustrations in this delightful, easy guide to say how you feel in te reo (Maori). Young and old alike will be able to describe whether they are feeling hoha (bored), makariri (cold), matekai (hungry), or simply tinopai rawe (fantastic).'
In 2008, The Apple was published by Penguin, written by Ben Brown and illustrated by Tracy Duncan.
Writers in Schools Information
Tracy Duncan takes part in the Writers in Schools programme and visits primary, intermediate and secondary schools. She is happy to discuss anything to do with writing and illustrating children's books, such as illustration techniques and life as an artist/illustrator in New Zealand. She is also happy to run workshops.
KAPAI: Kids Authors Pictures and Information
Some Questions for Tracy Duncan
Where do you live?
In Mahana, just out of Nelson, on a small orchard/lifestyle block.
What books do you read?
LOTS! I love lots of different genres - classical and contemporary novels, good science fiction, poetry, non-fiction (especially art and travel stories), children's books and graphic novels/comics.
Who is your favourite writer?
Too hard! I love Peter Carey and Margaret Atwood. Junior fiction: Maurice Gee and Emily Rodda, Picture books: Maurice Sendak, Anthony Brown and Shaun Tan.
How do you think up your ideas?
I use what I know. Things are always happening in day-to-day life to spark ideas. I always carry my sketchbook around to jot down words and pictures so I don't forget!
What is the best thing about being a writer/illustrator?
Working from home; I get to spend lots of time with my family, and I can walk the dog on my lunch break. I like being alone sometimes, and art and writing are great solitary pursuits.
Questions for Primary School Students
What sort of pets do you have?
A dog, four cats, two black sheep, six turkeys, three ducks, five peacocks, thirty chooks and a one-eyed rooster, two rabbits and ponds full of fish!
What is your favourite colour?
Red.
What is your favourite movie?
Kids movie: The Princess and The Cobbler.
What is you favourite game?
Cranium, and playing tennis.
What is the most fun thing about being an author/illustrator?
Seeing your work in shops around the country! It is always a buzz.
How do you make books?
You make lots of draft copies until you get it just right! Then you send it to your publisher, and they get the books printed up.
Where do you go for your holidays?
Camping in the summer, baches in the winter. We love getting away from people and going bush.
What was the naughtiest thing you ever did at school?
I was a bit of a goody two shoes. I hated being told off! I remember getting a strap across the hand for drawing on my school desk once - ouch!
Questions for Secondary School Students
Who inspired you when you were getting started?
Robyn Kahukiwa, because she wrote and illustrated books, but had a career as a painter/fine artist as well. Shaun Tan, becuase his work is so amazing. I am still inspired by other writers and artists all the time!
What advice would you give an aspiring young writer/illustator?
Don't take criticism too personally - learn to take advice and learn from your mistakes. Be determined, work hard, and believe in yourself - you can do ANYTHING!
Is it difficult to make a living writing in New Zealand?
Yes!
What were you like as a teenager?
A bit of a drama queen! English was always my favourite subject, and I was into music and drama as well. I moved from a small rural school to a big city one when I was about 14, and I remember feeling very alien and isolated. Back then I was in a big hurry to grow up, and left to travel overseas when I was 18. I had lots of adventures, and found out I was a lot braver and more capable than I had realised.
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