The 40 But 10: Jeff Whitcher

 I've pulled together 40ish questions - some bookish, some silly - and have asked authors to limit themselves to answering only 10 of them. That way, it keeps the interviews fresh and connectable for all of us!

Today we are joined by Jeff Whitcher. Jeff is a social worker by day and a darkly humorous wordsmith by night. A master of the mash-up, he crafts quirky, heartfelt, and downright hilarious books that keep readers coming back for more. His love for storytelling started with a simple classroom visit and has since spiraled into a universe of playful, viral, and unforgettable books. When he’s not writing, Jeff shares his passion for vinyl records on his YouTube channel, Vinyl Destination, and occasionally embarrasses his kids with his dance moves.

What made you start writing?

I started writing parodies, cartoons and funny stories back in grade school to make my friends and classmates laugh. I’ve been shy all my life and humor has been a great way to make friends and connect with people.

Do you have any hidden talents?

 I like to paint portraits in my spare time using acrylics and taught myself video editing for my YouTube channel, Jeff Whitcher’s Vinyl Destination.

Describe your book in three words.

Subversive, hilarious, provocative.

What is your favorite way to waste time?

I’m a record collector so my favorite way to waste time is sitting in my man cave deep-diving into the discographies of some of my favorite artists, the Beatles, Led Zeppelin, Elvis Costello, Snoop Dogg, of course.

What is your favorite book from childhood?

“Where the Sidewalk Ends” by Shel Silverstein was the first book I read that made me want to be a writer and gave me the confidence to try. It was definitely the inspiration when I began writing my own books of poetry ten years ago. People forget how cutting-edge that book was when it came out as children’s literature tended to be very homogenized.

What genres won’t you read?

Fantasy. Nothing against that genre, but I like books that are at least somewhat rooted in reality. 

If you could go back and rewrite one of your books or stories, which would it be and why?

Actually, I’m in the process of updating the illustrations on all my poetry books. When I wrote them originally, I didn’t have access to the tools I have now and drew them as simple pen and paper line drawings with a sharpie. The new versions will be in full color and more eye-popping.

Do you read the reviews of your books or do you stay far far away from them, and why?

I read my reviews with one eye open because I have very thin skin when it comes to criticism. I can read 49 great reviews, but the one terrible review will be the one that sticks with me.

If you were stuck on a deserted island, what’s the one book you wish you had with you?

I think one of the many volumes of collected articles from the Onion newspaper. Laughter would be very important in getting through an experience like that.

What songs would be on the soundtrack of your life?

The super deluxe box set version or the single disc? “I Just Wasn’t Made for These Times” by the Beach Boys, “Sweet Leaf” by Black Sabbath, “Dream Brother” by Jeff Buckley, “River Man” by Nick Drake, “Head Over Heels” by Tears for Fears, “Everything Counts” by Depeche Mode and “Shine On You Crazy Diamond Parts 1-5” by Pink Floyd.

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What if Snoopy dropped a mixtape and turned the Peanuts universe on its head? 

In Snoop, Come Home, cartoonist Jeff Whitcher delivers a smart, hilarious mash-up of childhood nostalgia and hip-hop flair. This fully illustrated picture book for adults reimagines the Peanuts gang with a humorous twist—featuring cameos, clever wordplay, and unexpected remixes of familiar moments.

Drawn in pitch-perfect Peanuts style, this book is a fun, subversive tribute to pop culture and satire. It’s a perfect pick for readers who enjoy parody, clever humor, and creative storytelling that plays with what we thought we knew.

Not for kids—but absolutely for anyone who loves books that make you laugh and think at the same time.