Interview: Justin Christopher talks about My Dog Ate the Bathroom

Justin Brown is an author, writer, TV producer and MC. He has written a number of middle-grade novels as Justin Christopher, including Stowaway Daze and My Best Worst Year, as well as the hilarious picture book Nanas With No Manners. His books for kids encourage themes of friendship, family and bad jokes. Justin lives in Auckland with his family and dog. He talks to NZ Booklovers.

Tell us a little about My Dog Ate the Bathroom.

My eldest daughter arrived home from school and said, ‘Dad, let’s write a book together.’ I replied, ‘Great, there is only one rule, the story has to be the craziest thing we can think of.’ 

What inspired you to write this book?

We didn’t have a dog at the time, so I have no idea why we chose Mr Nut as the main character, but we were both happy with the initial concept. Ironically, we now have a Schnack named Cooper who is not nearly as naughty as Mr Nut, though he does have a thing for tissues and demolishing his favourite toys, Parrot and Nemo. So far, he has never eaten a bathroom. 

What inspired you to write this book?

Writers are excellent eavesdroppers. I often heard the phrase, ‘You’ll never guess what my dog just ate.’ There seemed to be no end of edible and non-edible objects: hearing aids, seatbelts, the last chapter of a book, an electric toothbrush, or a gib board toilet wall!

What was your routine or process when writing this book?

This story went through many phases, unlike my book Nanas With No Manners, which arrived almost fully formed in a dream. This doggy tail (tale) took many rewrites, which were frustrating and liberating in equal measure. I’d like to thank the late Guy Harkness, who drew some early sketches several years ago. What did I learn? If you believe in a story, DO NOT let it go. 

How did you work with illustrator Raymond McGrath?

Raymond and I worked on the TVNZ show Buzzy Bee. Many years later, here we are collaborating on a story that wasn’t even thought of. That is the magic of writing. 

What did you enjoy the most about writing this children’s book?

The 4th or 5th draft, where I really let the story do the talking. At first, I thought it was just too crazy, but isn’t that what kids' fiction is all about? Another tip for young writers - don’t hold back. 

What do you hope children will enjoy about the book?

I hope it makes them laugh and helps them to think about the amusing things their own cats, dogs, geckos, or parrots do. Pets can bring so much joy (and sometimes mayhem). 

What did you do to celebrate finishing this book?

It was such a relief. I was proud that I waited for the story to find its true narrative. It’s often difficult for writers to take constructive feedback, but you soon realize it’s for the best! 

What’s next on the agenda for you?

I have written a theatre production based on my bestseller Nanas With No Manners and aim to have it on stage soon! Perhaps a cat story to rival Mr Nut.

Scholastic New Zealand