Book: Black Sheep, Rising
Q1. Hello Ma’am, can you please introduce yourself? Readers would love to know more about you.
I originally grew up in Southern California not far from the beach, though I now live in the mountains. I am the youngest of three children, though it was almost like I was an only child as my siblings and I are far apart in age. I loved to read as a child and thought I might like to be a writer someday, but my parents felt it wasn’t likely and that I should have a degree. I graduated with a teaching degree and have taught many different ages, including kids who were youth in custody as well as kids in college. I’ve been married nearly 25 years and have two children. My children are 20 and 10 years old. I love being a mom. I also have a dog named Frankie who thinks she is another child.
Q2. What were the key challenges you faced while writing ‘Black Sheep Rising’ book?
I think the most difficult thing for me while writing this book was being so honest about my childhood. Because my brother and sister are so much older than I am, they had different childhoods than I did. It was hard to reflect on the differences and wonder why my childhood had to be so challenging.
Q3. What books or authors have most influenced your own writing?
The poet ee cummings and beat poets like Lawrence Ferlinghetti and Alan Ginsburg have been an enormous influence.
Q4. What’s your favourite spot to visit in your own country? And what makes it so special to you?
I would have to say Disneyland. I love Disneyland because I truly feel free to be myself there. Nobody cares if you are screaming on a ride or clapping along to a parade. It is just a really liberating place to me.
Q5. Is there lots to do before you drive in and start writing a book?
Yes and no. When it comes to writing poetry, I keep a notebook by my bedside table and in my purse so I can write down ideas when they first come to me. You always think you’ll remember something but never do, so I have learned to write it down. Then I take those little snippets of lines or phrases and begin fleshing out the whole poem. As far as fiction goes, I plot things out in my head first and then write plot points on individual notecards so I can arrange them.
Q6. How long did it take you to write ‘Literally Christmas’ book?
I first wrote Literally Christmas as a short story and then a year later I expanded it into a novella. It took me about three or four months to write and edit.
Q7. On what all platforms readers can find your books to buy?
I am exclusive to Amazon currently.
Q8. Tell us about the process of coming up with the cover and the title of your books ?
As far as titles go, I find a line of poetry that resonates with me especially and turn them into titles. For Literally Christmas, the title came to me when I was thinking about what it would be like if everything a character said came true literally, especially during the holidays. When it comes to my covers, I consult with a terrific graphic designer. We talk about what images I want to evoke and what feelings I want my readers to have. From there, she mocks up a draft and then we discuss placement of the title so that it is pleasing overall.
Q9. When writing a book how do you keep things fresh, for both your readers and also yourself?
I don’t want readers to feel like they’ve read something of mine before, so I try to approach familiar topics in an original way or in a way that might be more universally felt by the reader.
Q10. Are there any secrets from the book (that aren’t in the blurb), you can share with your readers?
I have three jellybeans hidden on every cover. They represent my two children and one baby I lost. They’re easy to find on some covers and really difficult to find on others.
Book Is Available On Amazon
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