Q1. Hello, can you please introduce yourself? Readers would love to know more about you.
A1. Hello! I’m Elaine Makara. I am a veteran English teacher in an inner-city high school. This is my first publication and something I never expected.
Q2. What were the key challenges you faced while writing your book “Moments: Every One Counts”?
A2. This book was written as a final poetry project for a previous graduate class. I had no intent on submitting it for publishing. At the end of my course, my professor recommended a few avenues if I ever became interested. One Sunday morning after church, I told myself to go ahead and try. Never, in a million years, did I expect an acceptance. That said, the challenges with Moments were simply in writing the most pivotal moments of my life in an honest, guttural form.
Q3. What books or authors have most influenced your own writing?
A3. I am a big fan of Chopin and Poe as well as Sylvia Plath. The English teacher in me savors the use of descriptive language.
Q4. What’s your favorite spot to visit in your own country? And what makes it so special to you?
A4. My favorite spot has to be the beach—any beach. The sound of the waves and taste of the salt are so tranquil. The worst day can be assuaged with a visit to the sea.
Q5. What inspired you to write the book ‘Moments: Every One Counts’?
A5. My final poetry project had to be a compilation of poetry of all types. So, I began with the pivotal events from my life, and from there it flowed.
Q6. How long did it take you to write your book ‘Moments: Every One Counts’?
A6. It took me about six weeks to write Moments.
Q7. On what platforms can readers buy your books?
A7. My book is available at Barnes & Noble, Good Reads, Poet’s Choice, and Amazon. It is available in ebook as well.
Q8. Tell us about the process of coming up with the book cover and the title ‘Moments: Every One Counts’?
A8. I worked with my publisher on this part. I wanted the clock to be symbolic since time is fleeting. I approved the draft without reservation.
Q9. When writing a book how do you keep things fresh, for both your readers and also yourself?
A9.I have Post It notes in every room of my house and in my car. My classroom is laden with stacks of them as well. I get ideas at the most random of places. I arrange the notes on my dining room wall. As new ideas emerge, I rearrange the order of the notes. Somehow this process morphs my original ideas into something new. My direction often changes as a result.
Q10. What is the most valuable piece of advice you’ve been given about writing?
A10.The most valuable piece of advice has to be patience. Since I’m so new at this process, I have no idea what to expect.
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