Surf Soup TV Question & Answer with Creator, Author, Illustrator, TV Animator Donna Kay Lau
Description
Can you tell us a bit about your Surf Soup Book series and what inspired you to write it? Have you ever been surfing and seen trash in the ocean? It's a heartbreaking sight - it makes you feel like it's impossible to make a difference. But that's where Surf Soup comes in. When I saw all that debris floating around, the idea of a big bowl of soup popped into my head. It was like we were all just floating in this giant, polluted soup.
Can you share a little bit about your creative process when it comes to developing characters and storylines for Surf Soup series?
My ideas for Surf Soup come to me magically and divinely. I like to write first thing in the morning and draw later in the day. Drawing live on Twitch has been fun and has felt less alone. I plan on teaching animation lessons on the show that will be on Twitch first and then produced into my show.
I've always found that my best ideas come to me when I'm sitting on my board out in the water. And that's where I got the inspiration for Surf Soup - a cartoon series and kids book that teach about ocean pollution and how to surf at the same time. I wanted to create something that would inspire kids to take action and make a difference in the world.
How do you think Surf Soup is unique compared to other children's book series out there?
Surf Soup is more than just a passion project - it's a movement. I was inspired by the islanders on the north shore in Hawaii, who works tirelessly to keep our beaches clean and safe. And with the help of my four successful Kickstarter campaigns, I’ve been able to turn this dream into a reality.
Running a Kickstarter campaign was no easy feat, but I was thrilled to see the support from the community. To date, we've successfully funded four campaigns and have been able to bring Surf Soup to life in so many different ways."
I am so grateful to all my supporters.
Right now, you can read all about the making of Surf Soup in a serialized episodic series on Kindle Vella. And I’m not stopping there - I will also turn it into a novel and a movie. I'm honored to have been green lit for a short documentary about my life as a first-generation Chinese American artist and TV animator.
All surf soup projects are just the beginning. I hope It will be a long and impactful journey to raise awareness about ocean pollution and inspire the next generation to protect our planet.
I'm also showing kids how to be more compassionate and have more grit, perseverance, love, and friendship.
What message do you hope to convey through the Surf Soup universe?
"I wanted to create something that would not only teach kids about ocean pollution, but also inspire them to take action and make a difference. That's why we incorporate real-world issues into our stories in a fun and engaging way."
"I'm really excited to announce that we've been green lit for a short documentary about my life as a first generation Chinese American artist and TV animator. I can't wait to share my story and inspire others to pursue their passions."
My purpose is broadcasting love, joy, humor by creating art, writing books, producing animation, & teaching children to help each other so we can have more peace, love, joy, and harmony in the world.”
How can listeners and viewers support your project and stay up-to-date with new releases and updates?
I want to encourage listeners to take action, whether that's checking out my website, following me on social media I’m on Instagram @Surfsoup, or purchasing my books. If you're interested in learning more about Surf Soup, you can visit my website at SurfSoup.tv or "Be sure to follow me on YouTube for updates on our upcoming cartoon show @Surfsouptv
Thanks for tuning in and all your love and support.

















