Like we did in the last blog with Chatter, I wanted to share how Jeys came to life. If you read Meet Chatter from Big Beasts, then you know there was a pretty straight line from our cat to the incarnation of Chatter, just bigger and with long floppy ears.
So, before we start discussing the kaiju sized toad which also inhabits Big Beasts and its pending sequel, I want to assure you the connection proves to be a bit more wild and crooked. Because after all, isn’t it more fun to see something which has never been seen exactly like you’re seeing it. It doesn’t matter if you’re a writer or reader, we all hold these magical creatures in our head.
Having said that, the inspiration for Jeys came from two cute and fuzzy sweeties named Harley and Sydney. We got Harley first, and she was with us for less than ten years. When she left us, we immediately secured Sydney.
What are these babies?
Pugs.
Yes, you read that right. Two pugs inspired a giant toad. How could they do that? Both Harley and Sydney had a unique way of sitting like frogs on a lily pad. They would lean back on their little rumps with their back legs bowed out and their front paws on the ground between their legs. I used to imagine them as giant bullfrogs, and later toads.
Just like I did with Paisley, I wanted to honor these two fine girls who we miss very much, but who still live on for me and my family in the pages of my books.
Enjoy the Journey. We’re all on it together.