Today we’d like to introduce you to Tate Godwin.
Hi Tate, we’re thrilled to have a chance to learn your story today. So, before we get into specifics, maybe you can briefly walk us through how you got to where you are today?
As a kid, I loved to draw and write stories, and I was obsessed with comics and graphic novels. Once I started college, I chose to major in Economics, since it seemed practical, and pursuing art seemed anything but.
But after a few semesters and a bad case of mono, I couldn’t ignore my gut anymore. I switched schools and majors, and began studying art instead. Once I stepped off the “practical”
path, I figured I might as well go all in and chase the dream I’d had since
childhood: becoming a graphic novelist.
A few years and many rejections later, my debut kids’ graphic novel, Operation: Cover-Up, is on the shelves of libraries and bookstores, with its sequel, Operation: Make a Splash, arriving this February.
Can you talk to us a bit about the challenges and lessons you’ve learned along the way. Looking back would you say it’s been easy or smooth in retrospect?
The road’s been more challenging but also more rewarding than I expected. On top of the hard work of writing and illustrating a 200-page graphic novel, I’ve had to push past my comfort zone to spread the
word about my book. The marketing team at my publisher, Andrews McMeel, has been incredible, but these days, authors are expected to be active partners in getting their work out into the world. That meant reaching out to local
bookstores and schools, setting up events, and learning how to talk about my
work in public.
I’m an introvert at heart, so the idea of school visits was intimidating at first. But surprisingly, they’ve become one of my favorite parts of being an author. Kids are so creative and enthusiastic about graphic novels, and their energy is contagious. After my first school visit was such a blast, I just kept saying yes to more. Now I’ve had the chance to speak to well over a thousand kids, and I genuinely look forward to every opportunity to connect. I’m incredibly grateful to all the schools, libraries, camps, and bookstores that have welcomed and supported me.
As you know, we’re big fans of you and your work. For our readers who might not be as familiar what can you tell them about what you do?
I try to tell stories that are funny and entertaining for kids, but also emotionally resonant. Kids are smart and they can tell when they’re being talked down to. I’m careful to make sure my stories feel authentic rather than patronizing.
Authenticity is a central theme in my first graphic novel, Operation: Cover-Up. It follows two fifth graders, Sy and Nick, who, desperate to fit in at their new school, decide to swap identities as a brainiac and a class clown. There are plenty of laughs and hijinks along the way, but also heartfelt moments where the characters have to make hard choices.
In the sequel, Operation: Make a Splash, the characters build on their new-found confidence as they learn to handle disappointment and stand up
for themselves and others.
What I think sets my books apart are the adult characters. Sy’s mom and Nick’s dad share wisdom shaped by their own mistakes growing up. They’re caring and supportive, but they’re not perfect. When the first book came out, I was surprised and touched to hear from parents who said they related to those characters and enjoyed reading the story alongside their kids.
Do you any memories from childhood that you can share with us?
Some of my favorite memories growing up are of reading graphic novels and making my own comics, such as Blubber Boy, which got rave reviews from my mom. I feel lucky that I get to keep creating today, and I hope I’d make my younger self proud.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.tatecartoons.com/
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/tate_cartoons/
