Our latest book, Trini’s Big Leap by Alexander de Wit and Beth Kephart, with illustrations by William Sulit, concerns a talented little girl who says, “I can do that,” about everything she tries at the gym. But what happens when a new activity isn’t all that easy for her? Earlier this summer we asked the co-authors and illustrator a few questions about trying new things, about overcoming obstacles and fears, about giving and receiving advice, and about books they loved as a kid that have stuck with them into adulthood.

PCB: Why is it important for kids to try new things? Why is it important for adults to try new things? 

WS: Well, it’s all about learning. I think kids try new things intuitively—it’s the adults I worry about.