In a landscape where children’s literature often oscillates between whimsical tales and informative narratives, I.S. Noah emerges as a refreshing voice with his book, Peanut Butter and Jelly Sandwiches From Outer Space!. This 21st Century Fairy Tale transports readers to an extraordinary world filled with adventure, humor, and profound messages about our society.
In this interview, we dive into the inspiration behind Noah’s unique storytelling, the delightful characters he has crafted, and the underlying themes that resonate with both young readers and adults alike. Join us as we discuss the challenges he faced on his journey to publication, his vision for future adventures in this captivating universe, and what he hopes readers will take away from his enchanting narratives. Prepare to be inspired by the creative mind of I.S. Noah!
But First, who is I.S. Noah?
I.S. Noah grew up in Los Angeles in the 1960s and 70s. Watching classic TV sitcoms, reading comic books and going on camping trips with Boy Scout Troop 13, these were his favorite pastimes.
He earned an MFA in playwriting at UC Davis after attending, UCLA, UCSB, and Cal State Northridge.
After graduating, he worked as a production assistant on the television show “Falcon Crest” and other Lorimar Telepictures productions. An abrupt change of direction found him taking on the challenge of making math fun for inner city elementary students. The fact that students in Los Angeles, New York and Arkansas were always eager to participate in Mike’s Math Club meetings is the best evidence of his success in this brand of edutainment.
Peanut Butter and Jelly Sandwiches from Outer Space! is his first attempt at writing a story in a book format. It is very different from writing a play, but a sequel is planned.
I.S. Noah‘s Book
- What inspired you to write Peanut Butter and Jelly Sandwiches From Outer Space!? Was there a specific moment or idea that sparked the story?
It started with the idea of children finding a little flying saucer in the forest. This spawned several questions. What’s in the saucer? Who are the children? Why will readers be interested? My answers all pointed to a very unusual case of mistaken identity involving an alien child and a sandwich.
- The title is quite fun and quirky! How did you come up with it, and did it shape the story or come afterward?
The title came shortly after the story. I added the exclamation point and subtitle later.
One definition of a fairy tale is, “a story in which improbable events lead to a happy ending,” so it felt right to call “Peanut Butter and Jelly Sandwiches from Outer Space!” a 21st Century Fairy Tale.
- The Goobexes are a delightful addition to the plot. Can you tell us more about how you developed them as characters or a species?
Since the plot required that the Goobexes resemble oversized peanut butter and jelly sandwiches, I realized that making them telepathic would be helpful as they would not need mouths or eyes. I also decided that they are visiting Earth to monitor our growth as a sentient species. Their interaction with the president tells them a great deal in that respect, and it does so bigly. Their child is like a human child in some ways. He craves adventure and disobeys his parents.
- What age group did you have in mind while writing this book, and how do you hope young readers connect with the characters?
It started as story for young readers, so I hope they will relate to the characters and the predicaments they encounter. However, as I worked through revisions the characters, story and political satire became richer.
I think young children will enjoy having the book read to them, while readers from middle school and beyond will find the humor and interpersonal dynamics appealing.
- There’s a strong sense of whimsy in the book. Are there underlying messages or lessons you hope readers will take away from the story?
Thank you! I think whimsy is grossly undervalued, but I do have a serious message for readers. If we want to evolve as a species, we must resist our tendency to resort to violence in settling disputes and obtaining resources. Pure and simple.
- Were there any scenes that made you laugh while writing them? Could you share one of your favorites?
I loved writing Chapter 9, which is told largely from the perspective of six-year-old Willys who is hiding under his bed. Trying to think like a child reacting to extraordinary circumstances was fun for me. I also enjoyed writing Chapter 12 “So Many Questions” which contains over 100 question marks and parodies the “debriefing” process.
- How long did it take you to write the book from idea to publication?
My first draft took about a year. I got a great deal of feedback and worked with a writers’ group to make massive revisions. I basically rewrote the whole thing. That took over two years, but events in America helped shape events in the book so I’m glad it worked out that way.
- Have you always wanted to write for younger readers, or did this story naturally lead you to middle-grade fiction?
The story was originally conceived as a bedtime story for children, but it grew into much more.
My background involves writing for young people and adults. I have an MFA in playwriting, studied children’s theater, and was co-leader of a nonprofit program that made math fun for inner city elementary and middle school students.
- What’s the biggest challenge you faced in getting this book out into the world, and how did you overcome it?
I spent a lot of time and effort looking for a literary agent before deciding to self-publish, but publishing the book was easy compared to promoting it. I didn’t realize how much work is involved, and I am responsible for nearly all of it!
- Do you have plans for more stories set in this world—or perhaps another “delicious” adventure in the works?
Definitely. I’m working on a sequel: “The Alien Upgrade.” It sheds new light on some events that probably went unnoticed in this story yet drive the next one. It will also reveal the reason Agent Orange has such extraordinary abilities.
Beyond that, I have a head full of ideas. I want to write a humorous super hero story featuring Brad, Willys and Russian spies as well as a crazy Sasquatch story featuring a kidnapped podiatrist named Paul Bunyan.
Thank you, I.S. Noah, for taking the time to answer our questions and share insights about your delightful book, Peanut Butter and Jelly Sandwiches From Outer Space!. Your creative journey and the whimsical world you’ve built are truly inspiring. We look forward to your future adventures in storytelling!
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