What is the first childhood memory that comes to mind? (That you’re willing to share of course)
I vividly remember living on a lake in Virginia when I was 4 years old. Most of my memories from that time period center around that backyard. I remember always getting my kite stuck in the same tree, fervently trying to dig to China with my little gardening kit, and watching my pet duck Quacky lose a battle with the neighbor's dog. All three of those memories are decidedly "failures," but I guess I never saw it that way. Life is good when you're surrounded by people you love and fresh cut green grass.
What made you decide to become a writer?
I always loved writing, but usually I only wrote papers for school. I always tried to add some personality and a unique voice into those papers, to varying levels of success. After majoring in English Literature, I decided to start my own copywriting business which entailed writing marketing pieces for businesses. Again, to varying levels of success (some people don't like personality, apparently).
When I began working at a software company as a copywriter, a coworker challenged me to write fiction. I discovered that I was able to put that personality and voice to work however I wanted, and I loved it! That's when I really started writing and thinking about getting published.
What's your favorite thing to write?
I love to write realistic fiction, especially middle grade and young adult. I feel like I can relate to a lot of what they go through, and those memories are very bright in my mind. I love sports, adventure, and relationships...so those are the things that come out in my writing.
What method do you use to write?
I'm not the most efficient writer, because I overthink everything. I'm a perfectionist and have a hard time moving on in the writing process. So I usually just sludge through chapter by chapter until I'm done. I'm sure this is the reason I don't have more finished works. I'm open to suggestions!
What was the book first and latest book you've read?
The first book I remember LOVING was Henry and the Clubhouse by Beverly Clearly. I remember buying it with my own money at Sears, and I still have it today. The most recent book I read was Into Thin Air by John Krakauer. I am fascinated with Everest and any quest that involves nature.
What is something you wish you would have known going into the writing world?
I really wish I would have known about all the groups (like ANWA) that are out there to support writers. I had a great group of friends that encouraged me and read my manuscript, but it would have been nice to hear stories of success and failure from others who have been there. It's a lonely world, and only after I was published did I discover all the fun groups out there.
If you could travel back in time to when you began your writing career, what would be the advice you would give yourself?
I would tell myself: "you are better than you think!" I spent so much time doubting myself and hiding my creativity that I probably lost a lot of time and momentum. Funny thing is, I still have those same thoughts. So I guess I need to remind myself again and again. Good Amazon reviews help, though. :)
What would you tell any writer at any stage in their writing?
Write stories that you love to tell. I see a lot of authors try to write something that simply fits a perceived "market," and it's not really something they enjoy (or maybe aren't even good at). You can tell when you read a story if the author is really into it. And if you write things that make you happy, everything else will fall into place.
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