Renowned writer Robert Munsch, known for his children’s books, found unexpected inspiration at the Lord Beaverbrook Hotel in Fredericton over two decades ago. Victoria Campbell, now 27, recalls how her encounter with Munsch during her sixth birthday lunch led to the creation of the book “Swamp Water” in 2013.
Munsch, famous for works like “The Paper Bag Princess” and “Love You Forever,” has sold over 80 million copies of his books in North America and has been translated into multiple languages. Campbell’s chance meeting with Munsch at the hotel, now Crowne Plaza, sparked the idea for “Swamp Water.”
During their meeting, Munsch signed Campbell’s book and later crafted a story inspired by their brief interaction. Despite not knowing Campbell’s last name, Munsch wished to share the story with her and enlisted the help of a local newspaper to reconnect. Eventually, Campbell and Munsch corresponded, leading to the publication of “Swamp Water.”
The story, initially titled “Victoria’s Lunch,” features a young girl dining with her grandmother at a fancy restaurant. While the tale deviates from Campbell’s actual meal of a hot dog and chocolate milk, the essence of the story remained true to their encounter.
Years later, Munsch sent Campbell the book’s illustrations, and the book was eventually published in 2013. Campbell fondly remembers their ongoing correspondence, with Munsch even visiting her school in Fredericton. Despite Munsch’s health challenges, his stories remain cherished by readers like Campbell, who continues to share his books as gifts to new parents and enjoys the lasting legacy of his work.
