Topic: Author Interview
Shari Lyle-Soffe the person:
1. What three words do you think describe you as a human being?
Christian, caring, impatient
2. How do you think others would describe you?
Outgoing, friendly, caring
3. Please tell us what you are most passionate about outside of writing.
Suffering in any form, whether it is people or animals. I volunteer at a food pantry and I am amazed by the number of people suffering and hungry in this country. Good people, grateful people, some of them homeless. I am also appalled by the animal abuse that takes place in this country.
4. Do you have any pets? If so, introduce us to them.
Ah yes! We have a Shih Tzu named Dallas and a tortoise shell cat named Amber. Amber keeps me company while I write. I have always loved animals. At various times we have owned a horse, pygmy goats, chickens, ducks, parakeets, hamsters, and goldfish. We have owned many cats and even more dogs.
5. What is your most precious memory?
My daughter's wedding three years ago. Her two daughters were flower girls. Our best friends came. It took place outside, overlooking the Rogue River. It was a beautiful, joyful day.
6. What is your most embarrassing memory?
In second grade the teacher made me stand on a table in front of the class and pose while the other students drew my picture. I needed to use the restroom but the teacher wouldn't let me go until recess. I couldn't wait. I don't think anyone noticed but I am sure the teacher must have seen the puddle after I squished out to recess.
7. If you weren't a writer, what would you be doing with your life?
I would be gardening more, and doing a better job of keeping house. I would probably volunteer more too.
8. In two paragraphs or less write your obituary.
Sharon Soffe was born and raised in California. She and her husband moved to Southern Oregon in 1984. She was married to husband, Robert, for 48 years. She was a mother of two and grandmother of four. She volunteered at her church and the church food pantry. She was the volunteer newsletter editor for the local chapter of AARP. She was a professional crafter for four years before taking up writing for children. Her work has been published in many of the best known children's magazines. She wrote the "Rooter and Snuffle" picture/storybook series published by Guardian Angel Publishing, and illustrated by Kevin Scott Collier.
Shari Lyle-Soffe the writer:
9. Can you describe the time you realized you were indeed a "real" writer?
When my article "Baby Steps" was accepted by Once Upon A Time Magazine. We had company when I received what I assumed was a rejection. When I saw the acceptance I burst into tears. I am sure our friends thought I was nuts.
10. What is going on with your writing these days?
I am trying to learn to promote my books. I will soon have three books in print. THE MISADVENTURES OF ROOTER AND SNUFFLE, ON THE GO WITH ROOTER AND SNUFFLE, and TROUBLE FINDS ROOTER AND SNUFFLE. I have my first book signing coming up on March 15th from 11:00AM to 2:00PM at Oregon Books in Grants Pass, Oregon.
11. What are your future goals for your writing?
I want to have more books published. That means finishing some manuscripts and sending them out. I have to learn to juggle activities better.
12. Can you describe a typical writing day for you?
I sit at my desk at about 8:00 AM and work until about 3:00 PM. However I have many interruptions and other things to tend to so that is not all writing time.
13. Why do you write?
I love writing and reading. I want to inspire children and show them what is important in life. I want to entertain them and make them giggle. I remember how I loved being read to as a child.
14. What writer most inspires you? Why?
I have two favorites and both write wonderful rhyme. Lisa Wheeler for her humor and Dori Chaconas for her sensitivity.
15, How do you define your writing?
It's a work in progress.
16. In one sentence-what do you want people to say about your writing in fifty years?
Shari Lyle-Soffe's books really touched me.
Shari Lyle-Soffe the details:
17. Can you tell us where to find more information on you? Website? Blog?
http://www.sharilyle-soffe.com/
18. Is there a place where readers can reach you?
19. Can you list all your book titles so people can look for them?
THE MISADVENTURES OF ROOTER AND SNUFFLE,
ON THE GO WITH ROOTER AND SNUFFLE,
and
TROUBLE FINDS ROOTER AND SNUFFLE.
20. For new readers-what can they expect when they read your book(s)?
They can expect to follow two brother raccoons, Rooter and Snuffle, as they venture out with their many animal friends in Cathedral Woods. Like any children they find themselves in difficult situations and have to find their own way out.
In conclusion:
21. Take as much space as necessary to speak to our readers-what would you like them to know about you and your writing?
I was the oldest of four children, and spent part of my childhood living in the Redwoods of Northern California. My writing is a reflection of my childhood and events that I have witnessed in the lives of others. I was a loner as a child. That is good preparation for being a writer.
