Hello readers,

Today, we have the pleasure of welcoming author Avery Moreau to discuss her new book, "The Bilingual Diaries," published under CALEC's TBR Books program. A linguistic exploration of friendships, culture, and personal growth, Avery's latest offering is a testament to her knack for interweaving profound insights with engaging storytelling. While "The Bilingual Diaries" caters to a wide audience with its universal themes of friendship, cultural exploration, and the thrill of life in a cosmopolitan city, it particularly resonates with young readers aged 9-12. Moreau's accessible writing style and the adventurous spirit of her characters, Sophie and Fatoumata, make this book a captivating read for this age group. The incorporation of bilingual elements offers an exciting, educative twist, providing a fun, gentle introduction to a new language and the nuances of communication. Moreau skillfully bridges the gap between entertainment and education, making "The Bilingual Diaries" not only an engaging read but also a unique learning resource for young minds. Let's dive right into it!

Jerome Montauban (JM): Avery, it's a pleasure to have you here. To start off, could you tell us about the inspiration behind "The Bilingual Diaries"?

Avery Moreau (AM): Absolutely, Jerome, it's wonderful to be here. The inspiration for "The Bilingual Diaries" primarily stems from my own experiences navigating the multicultural landscape of New York City. The characters, Sophie and Fatoumata, are reflections of people I've met, embodying the rich tapestry of cultures that thrive here.

JM: The protagonists, Sophie and Fatoumata, go on numerous culinary and linguistic adventures throughout the book. Are these experiences based on real-life events?

AM: While the book is fiction, some episodes were definitely inspired by real-life occurrences. The scenes where the characters experiment with recipes from different cultures or grapple with the nuances of bilingualism - those are moments reminiscent of my own life and interactions in this multicultural city.

JM: The aspect of bilingualism plays a significant role in your book. How do you think it enhances the narrative?

AM: The beauty of bilingualism is that it can bridge gaps, bring people together, and allow for a deeper understanding of other cultures. In "The Bilingual Diaries," the mix of English and French illustrates the complexity and humor that can arise from navigating different languages while it also brings a unique texture to the narrative.

JM: As an author, how challenging was it to write a bilingual book, and what do you hope readers take away from it?

AM: It was definitely a challenge to ensure that the narrative was cohesive and engaging in both languages. However, it was an enriching experience that expanded my own linguistic horizons. As for the readers, I hope they appreciate the beauty of multicultural friendships and the enriching experiences bilingualism can offer.

JM: Finally, can we expect to read more about Sophie and Fatoumata's adventures in the future?

AM: I've grown quite attached to both characters, so it's a possibility! They have many more culinary and linguistic adventures to embark on in the Big Apple, and I'd love to share those stories with my readers.

JM: We certainly look forward to that, Avery! Thank you for taking the time to chat with us and share insights about your wonderful new book.

To our readers, "The Bilingual Diaries" is a testament to the beauty of multicultural friendships, the power of bilingualism, and the magic of New York City. You can find it here and at all major booksellers, published under CALEC's TBR Books. Until our next literary encounter!

• Jerome Montauban for New York in French