Karen Cushman

Karen Cushman

Newbery award-winning children’s book author

Karen Cushman

War and Millie McGonigle #3

War and Millie McGonigleWe know you grew up with a brother. Is there someone in your background that brought the character of Lily, Millie’s younger sister, to life for your readers?

I wanted a sibling who was the opposite of the adorable Pete and my equally adorable brother. Luckily, I can’t remember anyone I knew who was as whiny and difficult as Lily. She was so easy to dislike. I had to make a point of softening both Lily and Millie a bit so they could build a loving relationship.