SNAP! CRUNCH! MUNCH? - Delectable Sounds from DIANA CASTILLO

Hernando Diaz welcomes Diana Castillo into the Yeti Cave to discuss her latest comic from PenguinRandomHouse, Snap! Crunch! Munch? - check out this I Like to Read Comics imprint title for young readers!

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COMIC BOOK YETI: Diana, thanks so much for being here with us at the Comic Book Yeti. Today, we will talk about your work, inspirations, and of course your latest project, Snap! Crunch! Munch?. Let's begin with my first question; can you tell us about your creative journey? What kind of things inspired you to become an artist? 

DIANA CASTILLO: Drawing is something I have always liked doing. When I was little, crayons and paper were the only things that could get me to sit still. My mom loved to proudly remind me that at the age of four I could draw a duck facing both left AND right (a very big deal)! That might have been the first moment I thought of “becoming an artist.” 

CBY: I read Snap! Crunch! Munch? and I very much liked the style that you have developed. How would you describe your artistic style? What influences have shaped this aesthetic? 

DC: I enjoy watching animated movies, so there is an obvious influence from cartoons and animation in my art. Other influences include the city I was born in (Havana, Cuba). Everything from the buildings to the cars and landscapes were full of color. I now carry that love of color into my work and illustrations. 

CBY: I should note this publication is written primarily for children, and tells a nice, all-ages story. What inspired you to write and draw a children's book?

DC: I wanted my book to show kids how a normal family meal can get a bit wild when you use your imagination. For example, growing up I loved watching animal documentaries and imitating the sounds they made. Sometimes, when I bit into a crispy tostón (fried plantain), I would ask myself what animal sounded similar while eating. And what were they eating? This was the general inspiration for Snap! Crunch! Munch?. 

CBY: In general, what age demographic do you aim for with your projects? What do you hope children take away from this story?

DC: I’m currently writing picture books for early readers and chapter books, so the age ranges tend to be from 3 years old to 9. However, in my stories I like to include funny elements and fantasy themes that can appeal to all ages!  I hope my stories bring smiles and help spark kids’ growing imaginations. 

CBY: To continue talking about your job as an artist, related to my last question; what has been the reaction from children and parents to your books so far; both Snap! Crunch! Munch? and any previous work?

DC: I’ve received a lot of sweet comments on the art style and colorful illustrations. The kids tend to talk about which animal is their favorite. The flamingo seems to be a big hit!

CBY: Did you face any particular challenges while creating this Snap! Crunch! Munch? - what did you anticipate, and what unforeseen complications arose?

DC: It was a pretty smooth process despite it being my first book. My editor, Laura, was very patient and helpful in guiding me through the steps of bringing this book to life!

CBY: Do you see Snap! Crunch! Munch? as part of a larger series or a standalone project?

DC: I think it’s a standalone project, but I am currently developing other projects which are planned as series.

CBY: As a creative professional, how do your personal experiences influence your art and storytelling?

DC: Well, as I mentioned above, my love for color directly ties into my Cuban heritage and the city I grew up in. Similarly, my love for comics and animation have influenced the dynamic scenes and stories I write and illustrate. 

CBY: Seeing the structure of Snap! Crunch! Munch?, I want to know your opinion; how do you view the relationship between art and education, especially in children’s development?

DC: I view art and education like ‘peanut butter’ and ‘jelly’-- they are best when they go together. Art in particular can be a bridge for helping kids better understand topics and themes. When I had to learn a new language and transition to a different education system as a kid (after moving to the USA), the classes I performed best in incorporated art and images into the books, subjects and class curriculum. But to me, art isn’t just an “add-on” or a “tool.” It’s a key part of how we process thoughts, ideas, and learn new things. 

CBY: After talking about this wonderful project, are there new projects or themes you're excited to explore in the future? What is the next project for you?

DC: Yes! I’m working on a lot of fun projects (everything from early readers to chapter books). Currently, my favorite series in development are about a cat who must enroll in wizard school, and a dragon-turned-human who investigates dragon-related problems in her kingdom.

CBY: For our readers who see your work as a comic creator, you could be an inspiration for them. What advice would you give to these prospective artists and writers? 

DC: Draw/write everything, and never stop! Comics are about storytelling and emotion, not having a perfect drawing or story. You will improve with practice - LOTS of practice - so write or doodle every idea you have. Don’t focus too much on whether it “looks pretty” or not!  

CBY: Diana, thank you for joining us in the Yeti Cave today! For our readers at home, please feel free to include any portfolio, publication, or social media links below where they can further engage with you and your work. We look forward to seeing what you come up with next!

DC: Thanks so much for the interview! It’s been a pleasure.

You can find me on BlueSky (@dianaacastle.bsky.social‬) and keep track of my upcoming published books under the ‘Books’ tab on my website (https://dianacastleart.com/). 

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