SA PROMO interviewed Ingrid Botha, a first time children’s book author of Goosala Goop, originally from Bedfordview in Gauteng and now living in Hampshire. SA PROMO reviewed this book in the January 2010 issue. Sue Northam asked a few more questions about Ingrid’s background and how the book came into being.

Who is the author, Si Botha?

Si is the combination of my daughter's and my initials as it was a joint effort. 

What is your background?

I was born in South Africa and spent most of my life there besides four years living in Sweden. I am from Swedish/Italian decent. I spent a vast majority of years working in the world of computers and thereafter did quite a lot of work with children (computer teacher, aftercare homework supervisor, stand-in design and technology teacher). 

I have however always indulged in writing one way or another but never thought of trying to get something published.  

What inspired this book?

My amazingly creative daughter initiated the book one day when she was eight years old. She vanished into her room for a while and emerged with a short story that she had written. I held this beautiful little story called Goosala Goop in my hands and knew that I must one day do something with it. 

Having spent a few years living in Sweden, I always felt that the forests there held a magical spell in them and with the older community, and even some young ones, still believing that some forests were inhabited by trolls, I so much wanted to do something to bring in the magic of this enchantment. 

Where does the name Goosala Goop come from? 

My daughter came up with that name all by herself, at eight years old! I was concerned at first to use the name because at that age, I thought she might have heard it from somewhere but in spite of all the research I did and checking with agents, nothing similar was found.

Tell me about Goosala’s next adventure in Africa?

The follow-on story is set entirely in St Lucia on the North Kwazulu Natal coast. I believe this one is going to be great and a totally different African adventure. Yes, it's still Goosala and the main character Krissy and they find themselves camping in a caravan when all sorts of things happen, incorporating much wildlife from that area.

www.goosalagoop.com