Interview with Christine Nolfi and book giveaway

I won’t keep you waiting for this interview any longer.

I’m pleased to introduce to you Christine Nolfi, author of the adult fiction The Tree of Everlasting Knowledge. Be sure to read my review.

In 2004, Christine Nolfi began writing fiction full-time. Her debut, Treasure Me, is a finalist in the 2012 Next Generation Indie Awards and appears on the Midwest Book Review’s Bookwatch as, “A riveting read for those who enjoy adventure fiction, highly recommended.” Her second contemporary fiction novel, The Tree of Everlasting Knowledge, continues to earn 4- and 5-star reviews on GoodReads and Amazon. Her third release, Second Chance Grill, was released October 30th.

Christine, welcome to my blog! I’m delighted you agreed to this interview. Would you please begin by telling us a little about yourself? And do you have a family, a job outside the family?

Lynn, thank you for the invitation to visit today! I’m a full-time novelist and a recent transplant to Charleston, South Carolina. Three of my adopted children are now in college; the baby is a high school senior. I remarried last summer on a beach – Barry and I both feel blessed to have received a “do-over” in our fifties. Prior to writing fiction full-time, I owned a small PR firm in Cleveland, Ohio.

You seem to lead a full and satisfying life. When did you first know you wanted to be a writer? Who or what inspired you?

Honestly, I can’t recall a time when I didn’t write. Vignettes in childhood and later, short stories. In high school, I usually received top billing in the annual literary magazine. I wrote my first novel at age nineteen and turned down an offer to sell it at age twenty-two. Don’t ask why. Thirty years later, the reason seems silly.

Aw, darn. Now you know what question I really want to ask next! *sigh* Okay, I won’t. Instead: as a writer, do you do much reading? Who were/are your favourite authors or books?

I read several hours each day, whether it’s The Economist or Wall Street Journal, or the latest novel to catch my eye. Presently I’m reading The Brief Wondrous Life of Oscar Wao, Heart of the Matter by Emily Griffin and The 19th Wife by David Ebershoff. My taste in fiction runs toward literary, but I read across genres and can’t imagine choosing a favorite author.

Have you ever felt like giving up? When did you finally believe in
yourself so you can say “I am a writer”?

Some weeks the sheer volume of promotional work on my “to do” list becomes quite intimidating. I’ve never suffered from doubts regarding my abilities because I worked as a freelance writer for so many years.

Do you have a motto or Bible verse or quote that you try to live by
and that helps to keep you going?

I use “Bible flipping” daily: open the Bible, and read the passage that first catches my eye. The practice brings both comfort and hope. Frankly, I couldn’t have survived all the years of single parenting without my faith.

What do you remember about your very first time to be published,
how did that happen?

In my early twenties I sold a short story entitled Night Hour to Working Mother Magazine. The editor called to say she loved the over-the-transom submission about a mother who finds the courage to march into the basement rec room and confront her teenage daughter before the girl and a teen boyfriend have sex. The editor was convinced I was a working mother who’d written a story about experiences with my own teenagers. Needless to say, I was happy to let her think what she wanted – and was even more delighted when the magazine’s two million subscribers read my first published work.

Now, that’s an exciting start! Do you mind mentioning some of what you have written thus far? Of what you have had published, what means the most to you? Of those, what do or did you most enjoy writing?

I’ve published three novels with two more currently under edit. My debut Treasure Me was cited by USA Today as among the best of the indies and recently became a finalist in the 2012 Next Generation Indie Awards. The Tree of Everlasting Knowledge has even higher scores on Amazon and GoodReads but hasn’t yet reached the contest circuit. My third novel Second Chance Grill was released October 30th.

Whether I’m writing lighter books like Treasure Me and Second Chance Grill or a darker, closer to literary work like Tree of Everlasting Knowledge, I invariably fall in love with the characters. The work-in-progress becomes my favorite book.

Congratulations on your success so far! What method do you use to keep track of your writing ideas?

I rarely veer off course once work commences. Compelling fiction begins with deep characterization, and I spend months researching and fine-tuning the characters destined to populate a book. If I’m not satisfied with the completed manuscript after several revisions, I file it away. Some books need a cooling off period and fresh perspective before final revision work and publication.

What process do you go through when writing and perfecting your work?

I’ll write a chapter or two then return to the beginning and edit. Then I’ll write several more chapters and edit again. After the first draft is complete, I take the Word document and create a landscaped version resembling a paperback novel and edit, revise, cut, and add new passages in longhand fashion.

Very interesting! What inspired you to write The Tree of Everlasting Knowledge?

Tree explores problems related to the U.S. foster/adopt system. As an adoptive mother, caring for the world’s abandoned children is an issue dear to my heart. The idea for Troy’s dilemma in the novel—which I’d rather not give away here—came about after I conducted interviews at an adoption network in Cleveland, Ohio.

How long did it take you to write The Tree of Everlasting Knowledge? Did you have to do any research?

The work required extensive research into foster/adopt law in the United States. I also conducted interviews with social workers, a birth mother, and coordinators at an adoption network. The novel went through extensive revision on at least three occasions. I set the work aside when Treasure Me gained notice in The Amazon Breakthrough Novel Awards then picked Tree back up for one last revision in early 2012. All told, the novel took three years to write.

It was worth it, I would say. Did you find any part of it hard to write about or pull together?

Writing scenes from child Emma’s point-of-view proved gut wrenching. And Troy’s pivotal scenes with Buck took many months to write.

Why did you decide to write about such a difficult topic, that of violence in varying degrees?

Originally I planned Tree as another book in the Liberty series with the much lighter Treasure Me and Second Chance Grill. A literary agent on the West Coast had put me in contact with an amazing private editor who quickly concluded that Tree was much more literary than my other works, and deserved to release as a stand-alone novel. Her advice set me free to write a book both heartbreaking and uplifting.

I agree, it is both of those. Did you write a little of yourself into any of the characters?

Certainly the children Walt and Emma are inspired by my experiences as a mother of adopted children of color. Troy and Ourania? I’ve probably put some of my personality in both of them. I hope I don’t share any traits with the loathsome Buck Korchek, the most difficult character I’ve ever written.

How did/do you go about getting published? Why did you choose the route you took?

I worked with two literary agents, had two “almost sales” to Random House then New American Library. The problem? My books incorporate features of the romance, mystery, suspense and literary genres – never a good thing when a NY editor needs to decide where to place your debut on a bookstore shelf. My critique partners finally convinced me to try indie publishing. Naturally I’ll happily embark on a traditional publishing career if the right deal ever comes along.

How do you write consistently? Do you have writing goals? daily?
weekly? monthly? long-range?

Having owned a PR firm for many years, I still work as if I’m in the Marine Corps. Early start, break at noon for a workout at the gym, return to my office to edit the morning’s pages. I stop at dinnertime. Writers who burn the midnight oil or put in 18-hour days are asking for an early death. Any artist needs to recognize that her body is as sacred a gift as her boundless creativity.

That’s something to seriously consider. What other interests do you have for a change from writing?

I love to cook, garden, stroll the beach with my husband, walk my sweet mutt in Charleston’s early morning sunlight – and read. In between books, I try to read as many novels as possible.

Do you have another project in the works?

I’ll publish two shorter romances in early 2013 then release the third book in the Liberty series. Or I’ll release a longer, literary novel set in Istanbul. It’s a real dilemma. I’ve already written a portion of the Istanbul book, but the amusing antics of the characters in the Liberty books are hard to resist!

That’s just the kind of dilemma I imagine a lot of writers would love to have. 🙂 Finally, do you have any advice for hopefuls?

My best advice for hopefuls? Join a critique group. Read often and well. Write an entire first draft then revise. And revise again. Research the publishing industry before submitting your first query to a literary agent, or uploading your first novel independently. And always believe in your singular gifts.

Thanks, Christine. That’s great advice. Thank you for the insight into your writing life.

Readers, here are some links Christine invites you to check out:

Author Christine Nolfi’s website: http://www.christinenolfi.com

Find her on Twitter: https://twitter.com/#!/christinenolfi

Find her on Goodreads: http://www.goodreads.com/author/show/4811669.Christine_Nolfi

Find The Tree of Everlasting Knowledge on Amazon: http://www.amazon.com/The-Tree-Everlasting-Knowledge-ebook/dp/B007IO78QK/ref=sr_1_1?s=digital-text&ie=UTF8&qid=1340741334&sr=1-1&keywords=the+tree=of=everlasting=knowledge

Now leave a comment and your name will be in the draw for your chance to win a copy of Christine Nolfi’s The Tree of Everlasting Knowledge. Tell us what you found most helpful or interesting of what she had to share. On Saturday, November 10 at 6 PM EST one name will be drawn out of the basket. I will contact that person for his or her mailing address and when the winner gets back to me I’ll inform Christine who will send a book to the winner. So, leave a comment to enter the draw!

Thanks for reading, and … Creative Musings! 🙂

Interview with Carol White & Book Giveaway

It’s time for an author interview!

I’m happy to introduce Carol White, author of the adult fiction novel From One Place to Another. If you missed my October 13 review of her book you can read it here.

Carol, welcome to my blog! Of course, you are no stranger here; I’m pleased to know you are a reader of my blog. Also, you won one of the books I offered here. 🙂
Would you please begin by telling us a little about yourself?

Thanks so much for this interview, and for your in-depth review of my latest book, “From One Place to Another.” I began to read your blog when I saw that Delia Ephron was your guest, and I ended up winning “The Lion is In.” Since then, I’ve been a steady follower. I live in beautiful Delray Beach, Florida and I’ve been writing fiction, plays, poetry and articles for about 12 years. I also do a lot of volunteer work in the community, which keeps me grounded.

When did you first know you wanted to be a writer? Who or what inspired you?

In school I was always considered a good creative writer, and have also been interested in theatre since junior high. I didn’t take my writing abilities seriously until I enrolled in a 12 week workshop based on “The Artist’s Way” by Julia Cameron, a wonderful jumpstart to discovering your creativity. Anna Lisa Curtis was the leader and I have her to thank for helping me develop my career.

I’ve considered looking into The Artist’s Way, perhaps I should. As a writer, do you do much reading? Who were/are your favourite authors or books?

I read all the time and usually have two books going at once, one on my Kindle and the other in print. I enjoy contemporary fiction, essays and some biographies. Authors I like? Well, Jonathan Tropper comes to mind because I just finished his latest book. Susan Isaacs, ALL of the Ephron sisters, Jennifer Weiner, John Grisham and Emily Giffin are some of my favorites, and for essays, David Sedaris, Augusten Burroughs, Calvin Trillin and the late, great Nora Ephron.

Have you ever felt like giving up? When did you finally believe in yourself so you can say “I am a writer”?

After completing The Artist’s Way course, I called myself a writer. I do feel like giving up at times because the publishing field has gotten so competitive, but I have enough fans who insist that I keep writing. Even a small base can keep you motivated.

Do you have a motto or Bible verse or quote that you try to live by and that helps to keep you going?

This may sound insignificant, but I relate to the song, “So You Had a Bad Day.” That kind of keeps things in perspective and reminds me to count my blessings! I also use the sticky note program on my laptop to keep words of encouragement in plain sight “Be healthy, exercise, give thanks, etc.” I pop those notes up on the screen several times a day and add more if I feel something is lacking.

I believe if something is useful it is not insignificant, and those pc sticky notes are wonderful things. 🙂 What do you remember about your very first time to be published, how did that happen?

I remember it exactly. I had written a children’s story, The Dinosaur’s Computer Shop and entered it into a contest given by a St. Louis publication, which is now out of print. I won first prize and received a check for $100.00. The story was published on page one of their paper. It was the best $100.00 ever.

What great encouragement that must have been! Do you mind mentioning some of what you have written or contributed to thus far? Of what you have had published what means the most to you? Of those, what do or did you most enjoy writing?

I’ve had a lot of short fiction published by The East Hampton Star Newspaper and the now defunct Writers Journal, several articles in The Sun Sentinel Newspaper, and columns in various magazines and newsletters such as Insight for Playwrights, Working Writers and The Florida Writer. Two of my plays have won major awards and that was pretty exciting. I think whatever project I’m working on becomes my favorite, but seeing my first novel, “Hidden Choices,” in print was exhilarating.

What method do you use to keep track of your writing ideas?

I keep files in my computer of titles I like, i.e., good phrases for writing, and notes for new stories. I’ve also started to use index cards when plotting out a novel, which helps keep my characters straight. There are times I can’t see my dining room table because it’s covered with cards!

What process do you go through when writing and perfecting your work?

Once I get going, I pretty much work 8-10 hours a day. When the first draft is finished, I start in with rewriting. The process can take several months. Before I send anything to my editor, I give it to my reader who happens to be my best friend and target audience. She gets back to me with notes, sometimes brutal, but always honest and her input has been invaluable.

What a blessing to have a friend like that! What inspired you to write From One Place to Another?

The novel started as two short stories I wrote years ago when I lived in a country club in Boca Raton. I also worked for a caterer at that time, so was able to create the story using true-to-life experiences, of course greatly exaggerated.

It’s good to know it is greatly exaggerated. 🙂 How long did it take you to write From One Place to Another? Did you have to do any research? And how did you come up with that title?

Because I already knew the beginning and end of the book, I just had to fill in the middle and add more characters. Once I got going it didn’t take more than a couple of months to put it together as a novel. I did research on some of the local places I mention in the book in southeast Florida, and called others in North Carolina for information. I liked the cadence of the title, and it also represents the geographic and personal journey of the protagonist.

Did you write a little of yourself into any of the characters? Do you have a favourite?

There is a lot of food mentioned in the book. I’ve always had a huge interest in cooking and enjoy entertaining in my home, but similarities to the protagonist, Dina Marshall, stop there. I love Gabriela as a character because she is the antagonist and adds a good dose of spice to the book…the villain you love to hate!

Why did you decide to include some crude language? Was it simply a natural fit with the characters?

Much of today’s contemporary fiction includes cursing. I felt I kept mine to a minimum, but in some places it was absolutely necessary. When Dina’s husband leaves her (and you find that out on page one so no spoiler alert needed) she indeed uses some foul language when relating the story to her best friend. Because I speak aloud as I type, I actually become my characters, so if they’re angry – I’m angry…and if they curse, it’s because I believe it’s what they would do in that situation.

How did/do you go about finding a publisher? an editor? Do you have an agent?

For my first book, I used a large print-on-demand company. They did a good job in certain areas, but fell down in others. My second book was published by Trimark Press, a hybrid company, where you pay for certain services, but receive a lot of personal attention. I was fortunate that they had a spectacular house editor, Penelope Love, and we worked very well together. I haven’t looked for an agent, but I may try once my next book is completed. I’d like to mention that my books are available in both print and ebooks on Amazon, etc. Readers may also order the book directly from me at a greatly reduced cost.

Oh, very interesting. How do you consistently write? Do you have writing goals? daily? weekly? monthly? long-range?

I work on something every week, but not daily. I go in spurts. I wish I could be more disciplined, but that only happens when I get the urge.

What other interests do you have for a change from writing?

I belong to several writing organizations including the National League of American Pen Women and act as their Letters Chair, which means I do a lot of event planning for our writers. I am fortunate to have many friends in the area, so there’s never a loss of fun things to do. I belong to a book club, and attend a lot of local cultural events. I was the executive producer for a local theatre company for almost a decade, and am now getting back into that.

You lead a busy and creative-inspiring life. Do you have another project in the works?

I have several! I’m working on two plays and two novels. One novel is a book of short stories, most of which have previously been published, and I really just have to put it together. The other is a mystery that takes place in Delray Beach, Florida.

Finally, is being a writer/author all you had hoped or thought it would be? Do you have any advice for hopefuls?

To be a writer in today’s day and age, you must push yourself. Here is what has worked for me. Get known in your community and form relationships with libraries, book stores, etc. Submit articles to your local newspaper. Write a newsletter for your community. Enter contests from magazines or blogs to see if you get results. Contests are great because you become familiar with deadlines and word counts. If you write children’s stories, offer to read in libraries and after-school programs. Join writers groups and see if there is a critique group that suits your needs. Give workshops in an area you’re skilled in. Offer to read poetry in nursing homes and independent living communities. Join a book club. Go to book signings where you’ll meet authors and have the opportunity to ask questions. Writing is such a solitary career that we love to talk to people! READ as much as you write. Subscribe to a writer’s magazine to keep current, and read blogs such as yours!

Thank you, Carol, for a very interesting interview. You gave quite a list of suggestions there, great ideas – specifically that last tip. 😉

Now, my friends, as Carol mentioned, you can purchase her book through Amazon, or you can buy directly from her at a lower price. She can be found on Facebook: www.carolwhitefiction.com and on Twitter: https://twitter.com/polowhite

Do you live in Canada or the USA and would like the chance to win a free copy of Carol White’s newest book – From One Place to Another? If so, please leave a comment here and tell us what you gleaned as helpful from this interview. Tuesday, October 23, at about 7:oo PM EST, one name will be drawn from the basket, so get your comment in! Once the winner responds to my email the winner’s first name will be posted here on my blog and Carol will be notified so she can get a copy to that person. Sound good?

Thanks for reading, and … Creative Musings! 🙂

PS: Leave a comment and remember to check your emails on Tuesday evening.

Interview with Andrew Price & book giveaway

I am delighted to introduce to you Andrew Price, the author of the exciting, new crime fiction novel Without a Hitch. Andrew has a blog where you can comment, and a website for Without a Hitch, where I know that – after you read his book – he would love it if you visit and leave a comment about it, or maybe about this interview. You can also check out his Amazon page for more information about him or his books, or write him at andrewpricebooks (at) hotmail.com .

If you didn’t read my review of Without a Hitch you can find it here. Now on with our interview —

Andrew, I am pleased to be interviewing you. To start things off, please tell us a little about yourself.

Thanks, Lynn. I’ve been a practicing attorney for seventeen years now and I’ve done a bit of everything in that time. I worked for the government, for large firms, and finally struck out on my own. I’ve spent most of that time litigating.

When did you first know you wanted to be a writer? Who or what inspired you? or discouraged you?

I think the first time I knew I wanted to write was in eighth grade when I realized that I wasn’t very satisfied with a lot of the films I was seeing and I wanted to see if I could do better. But I never did more than dabble until a few years ago. So in a way, I was inspired by the films that frustrated me. 🙂

As a writer, do you do much reading? Who were/are your favourite authors or books?

Believe it or not, I don’t read much anymore because I do so much reading professionally that it’s hard to sit down and read for fun. In the past, however, I’ve done my best to work my way through the classics. I did that when I realized that I wasn’t well read, so I set out to change that. My favorite authors are Tolkien and Shakespeare.

Have you ever felt like giving up? When did you finally believe in yourself so you can say “I am a writer”?

Nope. I started writing “Without A Hitch” to prove to myself that I could do it, and as I got into it, I found that I loved the process. I loved the idea of creating this world and these characters. So I’ve never wanted to quit.

On being a writer, in an odd way, I’ve always seen myself as a writer because that’s been something I was good at throughout my education and my professional career. But in terms of seeing myself as a professional writer, I still don’t feel that. To me, it still feels like a hobby.

Do you have a motto or Bible verse or quote that you try to live by and that helps to keep you going?

Live and let live.

What do you remember about your very first time to be published, how did that happen?

I self-published, so it’s been a bit of a different experience because I’ve done most of it myself. What I remember most though was when people started sending me e-mails telling me their theories about my characters. It was really great to hear that these people had been so affected by the book that they kept thinking about it even after they finished reading it.

What have you had published thus far? Of those, what do/did you most enjoy writing?

So far, I’ve only published two legal thrillers (“Without A Hitch” and “Wrongful Death”), but I’m dying to write some science fiction.

What process do you go through when writing and perfecting a book or article?

I’m more of an editor than a writer when it comes to writing, so I start with an outline and then try to get the book done in a rough form. To me, that’s when the writing begins as I go through the book and edit it until I get it where I like it. That often means completely re-writing the whole thing eight or nine times, but I find I’m much happier editing it to where I want it than trying to write it the way I want it the first time. I also find this helps me understand the characters better because I know their story from start to finish before I start tweaking their dialog and their quirks. The downside, of course, is that you get so deeply into individual parts of the book that it’s easy to lose perspective, so I often step away for a few weeks so the story is fresh to me again when I take another pass at it.

What inspired you to write Without a Hitch?

I used to read a lot of legal thrillers by guys like John Grisham. Being a lawyer, I always found myself scratching my head at how completely unrealistic these books were. That drove me crazy. One day I decided I wanted to see if I could write my own legal thriller while following a set of rules that prevented me from doing the things I consider cheating in other legal thrillers – like letting the reader into the protagonist’s mind for most of the story but then withholding that access to create suspense, or using ludicrous legal procedures or solving plot problems with lucky coincidences. I wanted to see if I could avoid all of that and still write a good story. That was my goal.

How long did it take you to write Without a Hitch? Did you have to do any research? And how did you come up with that title?

It took me nine months to write “Without A Hitch” and another year to decide I wanted to try publishing it. I originally just wrote it to see if I could do it without intending to publish it, but then an author friend convinced me to publish it. In terms of research, no, I didn’t really do any research because this book is based on things and people I’ve encountered in my profession. I actually have no idea where the title came from, it just came to me one day.

It’s a great title, very fitting. Did you write a little of yourself into any of the characters? Do you have a favourite?

There are pieces of me in several characters. The hard part was making sure I used different parts of me in the different characters because I wanted each to be an individual and not just a reflection of me. In fact, one of the things I wanted to do was to let the characters act the way they really would according to their own personalities, rather than forcing them to act according to the plot idea I had. Several times, this led to the characters simply refusing to do what I needed and I had to write around that, but it made the story better.

My favorite character is actually Molly. I have a lot of sympathy for her.

When you wrote Without a Hitch, did you have any concerns about having your characters using profanity?

Yes and no. Yes, in the sense that in my experience, profanity is a substitute for good writing. Too often, people who don’t know how to convey what they want to convey will use profanity as a way to create tension or emotion. I certainly didn’t want to fall into that category – plus I don’t personally use profanity in real life because it just strikes me as rude. But then I realized that I needed to be true to these characters and some of them, in my experience as a lawyer, simply talk this way. Beaumont, for example, is very, very typical of what you find in the criminal justice system.

My second book, “Wrongful Death” has a lot less profanity because the characters in that book aren’t the same type of people who would use profanity. And I expect that there would be none in my science fiction books.

It felt as if you planted leads into another book – examples: the ending (for sure!), the “mystery man” (new guy in office). I see such potential there for a follow-up book. Have you considered writing a series or a sequel to Without a Hitch?

When I originally wrote “Without A Hitch,” I had no thoughts of a sequel. I did think it might be interesting to write another story involving Molly, but I really didn’t think there was room for a sequel involving Corbin. But since I’ve published the book, I’ve gotten about a dozen requests for a sequel and, the more I think about it, the more I am intrigued by the idea. It won’t be my next book, but I am very much thinking of writing a sequel.

I look forward to it! How did you go about finding a publisher? an editor? did you consider getting an agent? And why did you decide to not go the traditional publishing route?

Originally, I didn’t even think of publishing. I just wanted to see if I could write the book. Then an author friend of mine read it and convinced me to publish it. I started looking for an agent and even spoke with a couple, but then I came across a series of contracts with professional publishers and I saw that they really didn’t do anything for their authors. Under these contracts, I would do the work, I would promote the book, and if I was successful, they would benefit. That seemed like a bad deal to me. So if I was going to do it all myself anyway, I decided I would rather work for myself and see what happened. So far, I’m quite pleased.

Do you have a job to go to every day?

Sadly, yes. I still do the lawyer thing, though I’ve stopped litigating to save my sanity.

What other interests do you have for a change from writing?

I write a political blog and a film blog – which take way too much time. I also love watching football.

How do you consistently write? Do you have writing goals – daily? weekly? monthly? long-range?

I do write every day, but I can’t force myself to write a certain number of pages or hours. I’ve learned my mind simply won’t do that and I’ll end up writing garbage. So I basically take what I can get out of my brain whenever it’s willing to give it.

Do you have another project in the works? Any hints you can share with our readers about that?

I’ve got too many projects in the works! LOL! One of the problems I run into is that when I write something all these ideas for other projects come to me! Right now though, I’m working on two science fiction books. One is a spaceship/alien sort of story and the other is something I always wanted to try: a science fiction comedy. After that, I plan to do another legal thriller about an attorney at a big firm who gets brought onto a rape case and doesn’t know if their client is guilty or innocent.

Finally, is being a writer/author all you had hoped or thought it would be? Do you have any advice for hopefuls?

It’s so much more than I expected! I absolutely love it. My advice would be to love the process of creating the world and the characters. Everything else will follow when it becomes real to you.

That is great advice! Thank you, Andrew, for this enjoyable and interesting interview. 🙂

Thanks for the interview! 🙂

Now, my book-loving friends, author Andrew Price has kindly agreed to mail a copy of Without a Hitch to one of you who leaves a comment here about something that stood out to you in this interview. You have until Tuesday, September 25 at 7 PM EST to get your comment in. Then one name will be drawn out of the basket and I will contact the winner via email. So, add your comment and then watch your email on Tuesday!

Thanks for reading, and … Creative Musings! 🙂

Interview with Delia Ephron and book giveaway

It is with great pleasure – and more than a little excitement – that I bring to you my interview with renowned author, Delia Ephron. As you know, Ms. Ephron has applied her talent to journalism, essays, movies, novels, screenplays – to name some venues. I was thrilled to discover the author of The Lion Is In also co-wrote one of my all-time favourite movies, You’ve Got Mail.

If you haven’t already read my review of The Lion Is In, you can do so here.

Now to our interview —

Delia, it is my great pleasure to welcome you to my blog. Having just read and reviewed your new book, The Lion Is In, it is an honour to interview you. Thank you for graciously agreeing to this.

To begin, when did you first know you wanted to be a writer? Who or what inspired you?

My parents were screenwriters. My mother wanted all four of her daughters to be writers and she got her wish.

What an accomplishment! Who were/are your favourite authors or books?

My favorites are from childhood. Anne of Green Gables, the Betsy-Tacey books. I read them again and again and again while eating chocolate chip cookies.

Books and chocolate chip cookies sound like a delicious combination to me! Regarding writing, have you ever felt like giving up? When did you finally believe in yourself so you can say “I am a writer”?

Well, it’s a process. You have to develop writer muscles. This just means really good work habits. And then it’s exciting when you start to really have technique. But there are always moments where you want to quit. Being driven and brave is very important.

Good work habits, driven and brave, excellent advice. What do you remember about your very first time to be published, how did that happen?

I think my first piece was about basketball. I was living in Rhode Island and I wrote about Providence college basketball. They had a great team. Or maybe it was my crocheting book. My first book was called The Adventurous Crocheter. So either basketball or crocheting.

You have an impressive list of successes. Of all you have had published thus far, what means the most to you? What do or did you most enjoy writing?

I love novels the most. I love story telling and just being able to write things exactly the way I want. Movies are collaborations, so that is much more complicated. No control. I love control.

Freedom to write, control to write the way you want. Sounds good to me. 🙂 How did you get into writing for the movies?

I married a screenwriter and he taught me how to do it. Also I had written a funny book called Teenage Romance, and there was interest in it for a television movie, and the network let me write it.

That must have been exciting. What method do you use to keep track of your writing ideas?

Idea files in the computer.

What process do you go through when writing and perfecting your work?

Rewrite, rewrite, rewrite, rewrite. And print it out and then rewrite it, retyping the whole thing. Don’t just edit on the computer.

That is a lot of work! It’s certainly a commitment and I can see that by doing it that way you’d get to thoroughly know your story and characters and what needs fine-tuning. This method obviously has had great results for you.

What inspired you to write The Lion Is In?

I had a dream about three women and a lion. I knew all about the women, their names, their relationship. I knew they were all on the run and they were in a bar on a highway in North Carolina. I knew the lion would change their lives, and when I woke up, I also knew it was my next novel.

Wow! I’m sure every writer would love to have worthwhile dreams like that! How long did it take you to write The Lion Is In? And how did you come up with that title?

Two years. When I woke up from the dream, I knew the title.

Did you write a little of yourself into any of the characters? Do you have a favourite?

I don’t have a favorite but I am in every character. I don’t think it’s possible to write a character that isn’t in some way personal.

Why did you decide to include some crude language and, shall I say, ‘delicate’ scenes? Was it simply a natural fit with the characters?

Yes. I don’t worry about that. The important thing is, are the relationships real, do I care about these characters, do I want to know what happens. Is it emotional?

Good tips there for writers, especially when dealing with dialogue. I can vouch for it being emotional as the reader gets to know your characters. What other interests do you have for a change from writing?

Cooking. Baking especially.

Yummy chocolate chip cookies, perhaps? 🙂 Do you have another writing project in the works?

Yes, but it’s way too soon to talk about it.

I can certainly respect that. We now have something more to watch for from you. Finally, is being a writer/author all you had hoped or thought it would be? Do you have any advice for hopefuls?

Being able to earn a living from your imagination is a great gift. The important thing for all aspiring writers is believe in yourself, be driven and never give up.

“Be driven and never give up.” Thank you for this excellent advice, Delia, and thank you again for sharing with us a little about yourself and your creative gift. I wish you much continued success.

Now, my readers, I hope you enjoyed this interview. 🙂 I’m sure there are things you can take away from it that will benefit you. Would you like a chance to receive from Delia Ephron’s publisher, Blue Rider Press, a copy of The Lion Is In? If so, please leave a comment and on Sunday, August 12 at 6:00 PM EST one name will be drawn out of the basket. This time there is one stipulation: you must live in Canada or the US to receive the book. But, if you live in another country I still want to read your comment. (Please tell me from what country you are writing if outside Canada and USA.)

Thanks for reading, and … Creative Musings! 🙂

Interview with Jan L. Coates & book giveaway

I am excited to present this interview for you to meet Jan L. Coates who is an accomplished author here in Nova Scotia. I met Jan at one of her book signings, and discovered right away that she is a lovely person – calm, pleasant and humble. Please refer to my October 22’11 post for my review of her novel, A Hare in the Elephant’s Trunk.

In place of trying to give you a compilation of information, I’m going to let Jan tell you herself. She has shared such wonderful background details with great tips woven into this interview, that for any of you aspiring writers there is loads of encouragement. Now, get comfy. Enjoy the interview, it’s long, and – oh so good. 🙂

Jan, welcome to my blog, I’m delighted to be doing this interview with you. To begin, please tell us a little about yourself.

Hi, Lynn. Thanks for inviting me to be part of your blog! I live in Wolfville now, but I grew up in Truro, NS, as Janet Mingo. My mother owned a bookstore and my father owned (and my brother continues to own) a music store, so I guess you could say I was immersed in “the arts” from the get-go. I have a clear memory of getting my first library card at the age of five – you had to be able to print your own name, and I’ve loved books since then. Reading has always been one of life’s great pleasures for me. I have two young adult children, Liam and Shannon, who are both university students, and my husband, Don, is in his last year of teaching at Horton High School. And, of course, I have a new puppy – her name is Charlie.

Oh, puppies are so much fun! When did you first know you wanted to be a writer? Who or what inspired you?

I’ve always been interested in writing, and wrote the angst-type poetry common among adolescents while I was in high school. It wasn’t until I began reading picture books to my own kids in the 1990s that I began thinking about trying to write for children for publication. In particular, a picture book named Jeremiah Learns to Read (Jo Ellen Bogart, illustrations by Laura Fernandez & Rick Jacobson) which continues, in my mind, to be a perfect picture book, inspired me to write my first picture book manuscript, in 2000. It was called “Sam’s Magic Cape”, and it placed second in the Atlantic Writing Competition that year. I’ve since received over 50 rejection letters for that story, in various forms. I may dig it up someday again and have another go at it, because I still like it!

I hope you do try that story again, it may be waiting for its time. As a writer do you do much reading? Who/what were and are your favourite authors or books?

I read constantly, and I always tell students it’s the most important tool readily available to all writers. My favorite adult author is John Irving (Owen Meany, Cider House Rules) – I can only dream of being such a storyteller! I read about 10 young adult/middle grade books a month these days; I’m drawn to books by authors like Katherine Paterson (Bridge to Terabithia), and most recently I’m reading David Almond’s books (Kit’s Wilderness; Skellig). I also admire Cynthia Rylant’s work (Missing May).

Have you ever felt like giving up? When did you finally believe in yourself so you can say “I am a writer”?

Even after Rainbows in the Dark was published in 2005, I didn’t feel like a real “writer”. I don’t think it was until I attended my first writing retreat/workshop with Peter Carver and Kathy Stinson, and five other children’s writers, in 2007 that I actually started thinking of myself as a writer. I can honestly say that since 2000, I’ve never thought of abandoning writing, despite the frustration in trying to get published. It’s just what I do.

I’ve heard positive things about Rainbows in the Dark. Do you have a motto or Bible verse or quote that you try to live by and that helps to keep you going?

Perseverance is the hard work you do after you get tired of doing the hard work you already did. (Newt Gingrich)

Oh, I love that quote! (note to self: stick quote up everywhere I need it) What do you remember about your very first time to be published, how did that come about?

My first published article appeared on the back page of Canadian Living Magazine in 2000 or 2001. It was a personal essay about watching my daughter skate at 6:00 am. I think she’s finally forgiven me for writing such a sentimental article! She and I were co-winners of an essay contest in the Chronicle Herald that same year.

Wonderful! What have you had published thus far? Of those, what do/did you most enjoy writing?

Rainbows in the Dark (picture book, Second Story Press, 2005)

A Hare in the Elephant’s Trunk (YA novel, Red Deer Press, 2010)

The Quebec Book (ESL Comprehension Workbook, Editions de L’Envolee, 2011)

Stop Complaining, Chicken Little (illustrated chapter book for Korean ESL learners, JLS Storybook Project, 2011)

Pinocchio Learns a Lesson (JLS, 2011)

The Witch’s Fingers (JLS, 2011)

Turning Trash to Treasure (JLS, 2011)

Sarah Snow, Star of the Show (JLS, 2011)

Uncle Bobby and the Pirates (JLS, 2011)

If Dogs Could Talk (JLS, 2011)

The Cheesy Man Giant (JLS, 2010)

The Queen and Mr. Cunningham (JLS, 2010)

The Impossible Dive (JLS, 2010)

I guess I could say writing A Hare in the Elephant’s Trunk has been the most rewarding as I wrote it specifically to help Jacob Deng, my inspiration for the book, and his foundation, Wadeng Wings of Hope (www.wadeng.org), through which he’s raising funds to build a school in his village in South Sudan.

It was also the most challenging, by far, as I had to do so much research and try to imagine life as a young Sudanese boy struggling to survive, as a victim of war. The book covers seven years, and that, in itself, was an organizational challenge. I couldn’t have written the book without the mentorship of Gary Blackwood, who taught me everything I know about writing a novel in the five months we worked together.

Wow! You are a prolific writer! What process do you go through when writing and perfecting a book or article?

I’m afraid I’m not very organized in my writing process. Generally, I get an idea, a vague sort of notion, and think about it for several days or weeks before I start writing. I do some preliminary research into the topic, if necessary, and try to get to know my protagonist as a real person before I start writing his/her story. I don’t have an outline worked out, and I often don’t know exactly how the story will end. I find the story seems to evolve once I start working on it. I was talking to my mentor, Gary Blackwood, yesterday, and he suggested I try working up an outline before starting a long project – he always has the story completely worked out before he starts writing, and it certainly seems to work well for him!

What method do you use to keep track of your writing ideas?

I do have a writing journal, but it’s often not on hand when I need to write something down, so I just scribble an idea on any available scrap of paper, and hope I can find it when I need it! I often cut articles (even obituaries!) out of the newspaper when I read something that interests me, and keep them in a scrapbook. There are so many things happening that truly are “stranger than fiction”.

What inspired you to write A Hare in the Elephant’s Trunk?

I met Jacob Deng in 2007, when I was asked to write an article about him for the Acadia Alumni Bulletin. We spent two hours together over coffee, and it was a very emotional meeting. In particular, I was moved by his continued longing for his mother, even at the age of 26, despite not having seen her for almost 20 years. I decided as I was walking home that day that I was going to try to write his story, although I never dreamed it would evolve into a 70,000-word novel, which by the way, is fiction inspired by Jacob’s true story (“Faction” as I describe it to students).

I can see that first meeting was life changing, perhaps for you both. How long did it take you to write A Hare in the Elephant’s Trunk? What research did you do? And I’m sure most people are very curious .. so I have to ask .. how did you come up with that title?

I first met Jacob in April, 2007, and the book was published in September, 2010, so I guess that’s about 3 and 1/2 years. Of course, I didn’t work on it full-time, but consistently during that time. I read every book I could find about South Sudan and the Dinka people, as well as countless websites, watched YouTube videos and movies, and talked with Jacob, sometimes recording our conversations so I could listen to his voice as I worked on the book. I was mentored on the project by Gary L. Blackwood, a transplanted US author, now living in Tatamagouche, and he was insistent I come up with an intriguing title. In fact, I went through over a dozen titles before we settled on this one. Jacob is described as having hare-like tendencies throughout the book, and the war is described as having elephantine characteristics; a significant African folktale about the Hare and the Elephant is also included in the book. Young readers can be very astute at figuring out that the elephant is the war.

(FYI, readers: Tatamagouche is a small village in Nova Scotia.)
The title is an excellent choice, unique and attention grabbing. Did you find this a difficult book to write? If so, how did you stick with it and why?

I can honestly say I’ve never worked so hard on anything in my life, mainly because the subject was so foreign to me, and I had to do so much research. It was difficult emotionally in the early stages, as I had to think of my characters as real children suffering through unimaginable horrors. I’m a very determined person, and once I start something, I’m going to finish it. I knew from the beginning that this book could help Wadeng Wings of Hope, and I hope that is proving true. As well, it seemed the book was meant to be, from my first meeting with Jacob, to the heart attack I had in the fall of 2007 which gave me time to start writing, to the mentorship with Gary, to my connection with Peter Carver, who offered me a contract for the book.

Wow! I’m glad you recovered from the heart attack, that’s a hard way to get time for writing! How did you go about finding a publisher? an editor? and do you have an agent?

I had attended two retreat/workshops at Peter Carver’s summer place in Port Joli, and he knew about this story before I submitted it to him. In fact, the first time I met him, he critiqued several of my picture book manuscripts, then suggested I try writing something longer, to which I responded that I didn’t think I had enough words inside me! He called me in September, 2009, immediately upon finishing the manuscript for HARE, and said he loved it. Music to a writer’s ears! He then told the publisher (Richard Dionne of Red Deer Press) that he wanted to do the book, and I signed the contract. I have to add that I have hundreds and hundreds of rejection letters for earlier, mostly picture book, manuscripts. It really has to be the right story crossing the right editor’s desk on the right day! I do not have an agent, and there are very few agents in Canada who handle children’s material.

You have it set up that you share part of the proceeds of your book’s sales, a compassionate thing to do. Please tell us about that.

I’m donating 50% of my royalties to Wadeng Wings of Hope. The publisher has allowed Jacob to buy the books at the author’s rate, and then sell them himself, so Wadeng profits in that way as well.Red Deer Press also gives 40% of online sales from their site to Wadeng, all of which contributes to Jacob’s dream of building a school.

A Hare in the Elephant’s Trunk has been receiving much deserved attention. Tell us what honours this book has received thus far.

Quite honestly, I’ve been surprised at the attention this book has received. I did know, before writing it, that no one else had written a novel for young readers about the Lost Boys of Sudan, although well-known US author, Linda Sue Park, also published a Lost Boys novel in the fall of 2010. Honors for Hare include:

Finalist, Governor General’s Literary Awards, 2011

Finalist, Atlantic Book Awards, 2011

2011 United States Board on Books for Young People (USBBY) Honor List for Outstanding International Books

SYRCA Snow Willow Nominee, 2011 (Sask. Young Readers Choice Awards)

2011 Independent Publishers Silver Medal, children’s multicultural fiction category

2011 Skipping Stones Multicultural Magazine Honor List

Starred Kirkus Review

2011 Woozles Battle of the Books Title, both elementary and high school

That is amazing and so exciting! Besides being a writer, you also have a job to go to, so how do you find time to write when you are busy with life?

I’m doing daily substitute teaching now, which is perfect as I can fit it in around my writing life. My kids are both in university, and my husband’s still teaching, so most days it’s just me and my new puppy, Charlie, in the house. When I’m not playing fetch, I’m at my laptop, oblivious to the dust bunnies piling up around me!

What other interests do you have for a change from writing?

I can be a little obsessive about writing, and I find I have to go to our cottage sometimes and leave my laptop behind. I go to the gym several times a week and play badminton, and I love shopping at Frenchy’s, looking at antiques, going for walks and playing with Charlie. I also love to go for drives and one of my hobbies is browsing real-estate, just for interest. I’m a bit of a Kijiji fanatic at the moment…

How do you consistently write? Do you have writing goals .. daily? weekly? monthly? long range?

When I’m in the middle of a revision, I find it easy to sit down and write for several hours in a row because I have a deadline to meet. When I’m writing, without a contract, it’s a little harder to get motivated, although when I get on a roll, hours can pass when I don’t even look at the clock. When I met with Gary yesterday, he told me he has a goal of a chapter a week, but he also always has at least two books under contract at any given time. I don’t have goals like that, but I am a compulsive editor, and almost every time I sit down at my laptop, I have to go back and re-read everything I’ve written to that point before I start the next chapter. My long-range goal is to find a publisher for the next book, I suppose!

Do you have another project in the works? Can you give our readers any hints about that?

I am working on a middle-grade novel, set in Nova Scotia in the 1960s, so it’s a little more familiar territory for me. I’m having fun mining my memories (and those of my sister, friends, husband). I’ve been working on it for about a year and a half now, and it’s still not ready to submit.

I guess at this particular time, being an author is more than I thought it would be. I’m an introvert by nature, and I’ve learned that authors need to get out and meet their readers as often as possible, which I do through the Writers’ Federation’s wonderful Writers in the Schools (WITS) program. Over the past year, I’ve been on TV, been interviewed by various reporters, and had to read in front of close to 200 people at the launch of HARE, so I’m getting a little more comfortable with that visible part of being a writer.

I would never have dreamed that my first novel would be a finalist for the GG, that’s for sure! In a perfect world, I would win the GG, get to go to Rideau Hall with Jacob, and donate half the $25,000 prize to Wadeng.

My best advice would be to read everything you can in the genre in which you’re interested in writing – I’m constantly amazed by how much I can learn from studying how great authors put words and stories together. And, of course, write – every day, if you can. Also, read your work out loud – it’s surprising how easy it is to pick up weaknesses that way. If it doesn’t sound right, it probably isn’t.

I have dozens of manuscripts on file that have never found, and probably will never find, a home with a publisher, but I know that in writing each of them, I’ve learned something about the craft. Kathy Stinson (who has a few dozen books in print) told me recently that every book she’s written is harder than the one before it. It seems the more you know, the harder it is to apply all that knowledge to your writing. And, I think, you demand more of yourself as you gain experience. I continue to struggle with structure and conflict.

It’s rare for an author to get rich off their books, especially in Canada, but I have to say there’s nothing like receiving the first copy of a book with your name on it in the mail! Even better is having a reader tell you they’ve read and enjoyed your book, even been moved to tears, which is, after all, why we’re in this crazy game!

Thank you, Jan, for this delightful interview and great advice. I‘m happy for you and I certainly hope your amazing novel wins the Governor General’s Literary award. I wish you much continued success!

Thank you so much for your continued interest in my work, Lynn!

* *

I hope you enjoyed this interview with Jan Coates as much as I did. Be sure to visit Jacob’s website www.wadeng.org and I urge you to buy Jan’s book to help Jacob’s dream come true. But … one of you will WIN a copy here of A Hare in the Elephant’s Trunk! The publisher, Red Deer Press, is generously giving a copy to one person who leaves a comment on this post. Check them out at: http://www.reddeerpress.com/

** Please be sure to click the comments button ABOVE this post so that your entry gets included. In your comment tell us what you most enjoyed in the interview, enter only once, please. At 9:00 pm (8:00 EST) on November 12 my husband will draw one name from the basket, and I will contact that person via email. So be sure to check your emails November 12 or 13! You could be the one to receive a copy of A Hare in the Elephant’s Trunk!

Thanks for reading, and … Creative Musings! 🙂

You can find A Hare in the Elephant’s Trunk listed on my BUY THE BOOK! page.