Nathanael Lessore on Solving Crimes is NOT My Superpower and funny books for kids

We've got a witty, action-packed, empathy-filled fantasy crime caper to share with our Parakeet subscribers this month - and we think they're going to love it! Nathanael Lessore is an award-winning writer whose funny and inclusive books for tweens and early teens have been on our radar for a while, and we're delighted that he's turned his hand to fiction for newly independent readers. Solving Crimes is NOT My Superpower has all the ingredients of a hit with hilarious drama, fun friendships, brilliant characters and loads of black and white illustrations throughout. Here Nathanael tells us about what inspired the book and which other funny books for younger readers he recommends you read next.

What inspired you to write Solving Crime is NOT My Superpower?

A meeting with my publishers and my wonderful editors who asked me what I wanted to write about. I said Superheroes, because I grew up reading comic books, and I was always (badly) drawing my own heroes and villains. But it needed to be real, fun, and human, which is where the character of Sara and Walsham came from. 

Which character’s superpower would you most like to have any why?

I'd love to have Mum's superpower. It means I wouldn't have to pay for travel, and I could go sit on a cloud if I was feeling overwhelmed. 

What lessons would you say Sara learns?

Sara learns that she is enough, with or without her powers. She learns that kindness, perseverance, love, and hard work are more valuable than any of the best superpowers. Also, she learns patience, and understands that everyone is different. 

Would you say the Walsham Treasure is a blessing or a curse for Sara’s hometown?

Amazing question! I would say it's a blessing, as it has produced the IPA, whose heroes do so much and go round saving people. But I would also say that it's not the best thing about Sara's hometown. The community, and the people, and the friendships are what makes Walsham so great, not the IPA. 

Can you tell us anything about what the future holds for Sara and her friends?

A pretty big adventure is coming up, where Sara, Javier, and Georgie have to save the day. They'll also be joined by Sara's nemesis, who despite joining the gang, will continue to be her nemesis. And there may be an element of time travel (spoiler alert!)

Why did you choose to write books for this age group?

I was asked to by my publishers, and initially I was worried because I'd never done it before. I said 'yes', because they (my editor) believed in me, and they made me feel like I could do it, and that I was a good enough writer. Basically, it felt like I was Sara, and they were Sara's parents, encouraging her to believe in herself. Also, I'm a big kid and this was really fun!

Do you have a favourite place to write?

I used to write on the couch, but it started hurting my back, so now I sit at a desk in the bedroom. I also LOVE sitting on any random bench and writing in public, anywhere near a main road. Something about the hustle and noise and people going past, it helps me write about the world because I'm literally sitting in it. 

Which other funny books for younger readers would you recommend our subscribers read next?

Badgers Are Go! was pretty funny. And Grimwood, with the two foxes, I love that one. And I'd also recommend Marty Moose, by Clare Powell, and Dave Pigeon. 

Copies of our Solving Crimes is NOT My Superpower pack, including a copy of the book and loads of fun activities to go with it, are now available for individual purchase. Grab a copy while stocks last!

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