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On The Table Read, “the best book magazine in the UK“, children’s book author, Nancy Paris, talks about her dance career and being inspired to write Pardon My French, It’s The Language Of Ballet.
Written by JJ Barnes
I interviewed Nancy Paris about her life and career in dance, what inspired her to start writing, and the story of her new children’s book, Pardon My French, It’s The Language Of Ballet.
Tell me a bit about who you are.
My name is Nancy Paris, and I am a retired professional dancer and choreographer. I attended The Juilliard School after training at dance studios in my hometown of Massapequa, NY, and in New York City. I’ve performed and choreographed all over the world, and taught dance in NYC, Montreal, Toronto, Stockholm, and Osaka. I had my own dance troupe for about 15 years and produced dance shows that toured in the US. I am currently a producer and co-creator of a new musical, Radio 930, which we hope to bring to Broadway in the Spring of 2024.
When did you first WANT to write a book?
Years ago, when I was teaching children, I kept a log of all the funny things that the kids said to me in ballet class. I thought that someday I might like to use the material in a book.
When did you take a step to start writing?
It was during the height of the covid pandemic – a combination of being in lockdown in a small Manhattan apartment and needing to find some form of creativity to keep my spirits up. I took an online creative writing course and found delight in telling short stories. It reminded me of creating a piece of choreography.
How long did it take you to complete your first book from the first idea to release?
I started writing Pardon My French – It’s the Language of Ballet in February of 2021 and released the book in November 2021. During that time, I was encouraged to illustrate the book after completing a group of sketches that I intended to give to a professional illustrator as a guide. So basically, not only was I teaching myself how to write, I was also teaching myself how to draw.
How long did it take you to complete your latest book from the first idea to release?
I started Seven Summer Situations That Were Not My Fault, the second book in my series The Adventures of Lilly Nilly, in January 2022. It is in the design stage now, and I plan to release it this October.
Focusing on your latest release. What made you want to write Pardon My French, It’s The Language Of Ballet
I wanted to find another way of self-expression. I was always the happiest when I was dancing or creating dance, and as I went into the next phase of my life, writing and drawing were the only things that came close to helping me rediscover my joy. I also wanted to talk to children, whether they were dance students or not. I wanted to encourage them to be inquisitive, optimistic, and kind – even in the most challenging situations.
What were your biggest challenges with writing Pardon My French, It’s The Language Of Ballet?
Just having the self-confidence to write, to believe that what I put down on paper would be good enough to publish. So, I put out an email blast to the tenant association in my apartment building, asking if anyone would be kind enough to read my manuscript. I wanted a cross section of people, those I knew and didn’t know, to weigh in. The response that I received gave me the green light to continue.
Who or what inspired you when creating your Protagonist?
I have very clear memories of being a young dance student, so my 6-year-old self became my protagonist. The little kids who were my dance students were a great inspiration.
Who or what inspired you when creating your Antagonist?
Lilly’s struggles stem from her precocity, coupled with the fact that she is very literal. So, the traditional method of learning dance sometimes confounds her. Lilly is always searching for the “why” behind what she is being asked to do. But once someone takes the time to satisfy her curiosity, she’s good to go.
What is the inciting incident of Pardon My French, It’s The Language Of Ballet?
When Lilly’s dance teacher tells her that her ballet instincts are correct. That’s when she realizes, “Dancing is AWESOME!”
What is the main conflict of Pardon My French, It’s The Language Of Ballet?
Lilly sometimes puts two and two together and gets five. But her argument is that one person’s five is another person’s four. And if she turns out to be wrong–– well, she’s six.
Did you plot Pardon My French, It’s The Language Of Ballet in advance, or fly by the seat of your pants and write freely?
I just wrote freely. The book is essentially autobiographical.
Did you get support with editing, and how much editing did Pardon My French, It’s The Language Of Ballet need?
Yes, especially with proof-reading and punctation. I’m a huge fan of commas. Aside from that, my book designer was helpful in pointing out things that made no sense to her but perfect sense to me. I went with her suggestions.
What is the first piece of writing advice you would give to anyone inspired to write a story?
When you are first starting out, write about what you know. All the research you need is within you.
Can you give me a hint about any further books you’re planning to write?
I’m already thinking about a third book in the series. Lilly auditions for the lead role in a new Broadway show titled Little Big Mouth – The Musical.
And, finally, are your proud of your accomplishment? Was it worth the effort?
Yes, it was well worth the effort. I’m proud that I started this project and saw it through to completion. But most of all, it was a joy to reach beyond what I thought I could do.
Pop all your book, website and social media links here so the readers can find you:
https://www.facebook.com/adventures.of.lilly.nilly
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