[Note from Frolic: Aurora Dominguez got the chance to chat with Shannon and Dean Hale, writers of the D.C. Comics graphic novel, Diana Princess of the Amazons. The middle grade graphic novel will be released on January 7, 2020.]
Aurora: How was it creating a middle grade series featuring super heroes?
Dean Hale: So awesome! I’ve loved comics and superheroes since I was child, and any chance to participate in that world, especially one as iconic and long-running as Wonder Woman, is an amazing experience!
Shannon Hale: We love superheroes in general and have written a bunch of hero books, but this was really special. Wonder Woman! And to get to show her as a kid! Just fun.
What inspired your story?
DH: It was really the idea of Diana being the only child on an island of immortal warriors. What would that feel like with no one to grow up with, no one anywhere near your own age? That combined with the fact that this child will one day grow up to be one of the most powerful heroes on earth felt like a great opportunity for a story.
SH: Exactly. The idea of being the only kid in the world is such an interesting storytelling question and one I knew would have fascinated me as a kid.
What can graphic novel lovers expect from the read?
DH: Graphic novels are so great at lowering the barrier of entry into a story for both big and little people. If you are a more visual learner sometimes the dense blocks of text in traditional novels can feel boring, intimidating, or both. Plus the added bonus of easy re-reading. That’s something I always love about reading comics and graphic novels. Coming back and seeing details in the art I missed and living through the story another time. I love it.
SH: Readers also get to experience the fantastic art of Victoria Ying illustrating her first graphic novel. But definitely not her last. She is a huge talent to watch out for.
If you had one super power, what would it be?
DH: Probably the ability to stop time. I would get so much done! Also I could play some really good pranks.
SH: Same, tbh. More time! To do everything! Learn everything! EAT everything!
What is next for you in the comic and graphic novel world?
DH: Shannon and I have an eight page story in issue #750 of the Wonder Woman monthly comic that I’m excited about, and we’re also working on another DC graphic novel about Amethyst, Princess of Gemworld!
SH: As well as our ongoing early chapter book series, THE PRINCESS IN GLACK, and my graphic memoir series with illustrator LeUyen Pham, REAL FRIENDS.