1.  What three words do you think describe you as a human being?

easy-going, hard-working, friendly

2.  How do you think others would describe you?

bright, dependable

3.  Please tell us what you are most passionate about outside of writing .

Nature &conservation

4.  Do you have any pets?  If so, introduce us to them.

Not now, but I've had several cats

5.  What is your most precious memory?

The day each of my children were born

6.  What is your most embarrassing memory?

Almost walking into the men's room while in college

7.  If you weren't a writer, what would you be doing with your life?

Probably some sort of volunteer work

8.  In two paragraphs or less write your obituary.

Erica Stux grew up in Cincinnati, Ohio. her love of science led her to study chemistry at the University of Cincinnati. After working several years in industry, she married fellow chemist Paul Stux, They moved to Akron, Ohio, where she became involved in various volunteer work while raising three children. Reading to her children inspired her to start creative writing, and over the years she wrote and published many poems and short non-fiction, first for children and then for adults. After her husband died, she turned to writing books, and also to a previous interest - writing music.  Four of her musicals have been performed.  In 1999 she moved to the Los Angeles area to marry long-time friend Bill Shore. Her sense of humor led her to write her most recent book "Who, Me? Paranoid?"

 Besides her husband, she leaves three children and four grandchildren.

Erica Stux the writer:

9.   Can you describe the time you realized you were indeed a "real" writer? 

When my first book was published.

10.  What is going on with your writing these days? 

Not much - I keep sending out query letters.

11.  What are your future goals for your writing? 

Get various poetry collection for children published. Get one or more of my musicals produced.

12.  Can you describe a typical writing day for you?

I don't have a day that I'd consider typical. The only constant is waiting for the mail each afternoon and hoping there will be something from a publisher.

13.  Why do you write? 

As a sort of legacy -  to leave something behind after I'm gone.

14.  What writer most inspires you?  Why?

Right now I'd say Erma Bombeck, whom I'm trying to emulate.

15.  How do you define your writing? 

I've written in many genres, so there's no single definition.

16.  In one sentence-what do you want people to say about your writing in fifty years?

She was thorough in her research and could express herself well, and her humorous prose and poetry gave people lots of laughs.

Erica Stux the details:

17.  Can you tell us where to find more information on you? Website?  Blog? 

Sorry, I don't have a website.

18.  Is there a place where readers can reach you? 

My e-mail address:  ericastux@aol.com

19.  Can you list all your book titles so people can look for them?

Landlady (adult novel),  Winston Derek 1991  now out of print, but I have copies

Eight Who Made a Difference: Pioneer Women in the Arts, Avisson Press  1999

Strobe Lights (poetry chapbook)  The Plowman  1995

Writing for Freedom: the Story of Lydia Maria Child, Lerner Publishing Group  2000

Sequins and Sorrow (a memoir of my co-author), AuthorHouse  2002

Enrico Fermi, Trailblazer in Nuclear Physics,  Enslow Publishers  2004

The Achievers: Great Women in the Biological Sciences,  Avisson Press  2005

Going for the Jocular Vein (poetry chapbook), Hazel Street Productions  2005

Who, Me? Paranoid?  (humor collection)  Wheatmark Publishers  2007

20.  For new readers-what can they expect when they read your book(s)?

From my biographies, lots of information. From my humor collection, lots of laughs.

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'm a member of California Writers Club; I'm currently a columnist at www.hazelst.com.

I like to write about animals and nature for children, but none of those manuscripts has found a publisher as yet.  I wrote the biographies because I felt that teenage girls need more role models in the literature that's available to them.

Sales of my books are picking up. I hope "Who, Me? Paranoid?" will continue to sell for a long time.

Posted by joyceanthony at 12:01 AM EST

Updated: Tuesday, 18 December 2007 1:30 AM EST

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Howard Hopkins the person:

1.  What three words do you think describe you as a human being?

Driven, sensitive, annoying.

2.  How do you think others would describe you?

Probably shy and quiet, a loner...oh, my, now I'm sounding like a serial killer...He was such a quiet guy, I didn't realize he had all those bodies in his cellar!

3.  Please tell us what you are most passionate about outside of writing.

Music and bodybuilding and comic books.

4.  Do you have any pets?  If so, introduce us to them.

Not since losing my cairn terrier. Haven't been able to bring myself to get another. But I am a huge animal lover.

5.  What is your most precious memory?

Don't really have one. How lame is that?

6.  What is your most embarrassing memory?

If I told you you'd have to enter the witness protection program...but it involves a cheerleader locker-room and some guys dressed as elves. Beyond that, I'm thinking colonoscopy...

7.  If you weren't a writer, what would you be doing with your life?

Would like to be a pro musician and singer, but have always suffered from tremendous stage fright, which makes that profession tough.

8.  In two paragraphs or less write your obituary.

Even as a horror writer, this ranks as the creepiest question I have been asked. But since I AM a horror writer, I plan to be immortal. So it would read, don't mourn Howard because he'll be rising by midnight and by that time you should probably be running...

Howard Hopkins the writer:

9.   Can you describe the time you realized you were indeed a "real" writer?

I am not sure if there was a defining moment, but probably it had to be the first time I pulled a magazine with one of my stories out of the envelope. Before that, I thought I was a real writer, but holding an actual published piece sorta justifies it, especially to doubting relatives. In my personal view point, anybody who sits down and finishes writing a story or book is a real writer. It's not the easiest thing in the world to do, writing, so my hat goes off to anybody who can finish a story.

10.  What is going on with your writing these days?

Actually a lot of things. I have been doing a lot of anthology work for Moonstone Publications (they publish comic books, prose anthologies and novels, graphic novels, etc.) At present I just had a story published in their The Spider Chronicles (The Spider is a 1930s pulp novel hero) with John Jakes, and have upcoming shorts in The Avenger Chronicles (another 1930s/40s pulp hero) and Captain Midnight (an old time radio hero). I furnished the Introduction for The Avenger book as well and was just made co-editor on the project, so I am very excited about that, because The Avenger, along with another pulp hero, Doc Savage, is my all-time favorite pulp character. I will also be doing a Spider graphic novel for them. I'm also working on two new westerns for Black Horse, have a story bringing awareness to spousal abuse in Express Westerns new anthology, Where Legends Ride, five or six different horror and adventure novels, three comic book scripts, plus keeping up on ongoing horror serial called The Chloe Files (which also has a just published Amazon Short). My latest Black Horse Western, Desolation Pass, under my Lance Howard penname, is just out.

11.  What are your future goals for your writing?

Basically to keep writing about the things I love to write about-but making a heck of a lot more money doing it!

12.  Can you describe a typical writing day for you?

Usually I start off-after dragging my bum out of bed, showering, getting to the gym-by checking email for anything that absolutely has to be answered right away, then it depends on what I am doing-novel, or other work. Lately I spend a few hours editing the Avenger work, or writing a couple blog pieces, Chloe Files, or working on whatever project on the front burner. I spend a couple hours a day promoting or doing the peripheral promo type things like updating websites or MySpace, Facebook, etc.

13.  Why do you write?

Probably for the same reason most authors do-because we have to. It's something inside and we have stories that force us to tell them. There are certainly easier ways to make a living or even to creative something, but writers HAVE to write. It's a compulsion. We want to entertain people, too.

14.  What writer most inspires you?  Why?

That would be Doc Savage pulp writer Lester Dent. His ability to hook a reader and create a character in only a handful of words was an incredible gift. His imagination was a thing of wonder. And he had a way with prose, very snappy. I owe so much to him.

15.  How do you define your writing?

I'm an entertainer. I like to take people away from their problems for a few hours. I don't want to depress or add to their troubles. I want them to feel my writing is an escape. So that's what I strive for. Whether it be one of my western or horror novels, I want them to feel it was worth the time they spent with the book and that they hopefully got lot of enjoyment out of doing so.  I will never be Hemingway but I can tell a story...

16.  In one sentence-what do you want people to say about your writing in fifty years?

Damn, they actually paid him for that? Seriously, if they say "I enjoyed that book," that's the most I would or could ask for.

Howard Hopkins the details:

17.  Can you tell us where to find more information on you? Website?  Blog?

My personal website is: http://www.howardhopkins.com/

My Blogsites are:

Dark Bits: http://howardhopkins.blogspot.com/

The Chloe Files: http://chloefiles.blogspto.com/

I also have a MySpace page is: http://www.myspace.com/yingko2

18.  Is there a place where readers can reach you?

Readers can reach me at yingko2@aol.com

19.  Can you list all your book titles so people can look for them?

My horror titles under my own name, Howard Hopkins, are: NIGHT DEMONS, GRIMM, DARK HARBORS, THE DARK RIDERS, PISTOLERO,  THE NIGHTMARE CLUB #1: THE HEADLESS PAPERBOY (this one for kids 8+).

Some of my Lance Howard western titles are, LADIGAN, DESOLATION PASS, RIPPER PASS, JOHNNY DEAD, THE WEST WITCH and 20+ others.

20.  For new readers-what can they expect when they read your book(s)?

Escape, characters they can relate to, fast pacing and crisp dialog. Mood and suspense also. For my horror novels, if you are expecting something like SAW you won't find it in my books. You'll find more classic horror, things that go bump in the night, fear without huge heaps of gore and four-letter words. Certainly some deal with frightening issues, but I am more in the Stephen King and Dean Koontz mode than the recent spate of gore-filled movie horror (and I do want to scare the crap out of you, after all!) My kid's horror series novel harks back to the Hardy Boys meets Scooby Doo, something parents can give their kids without worry. My westerns are a bit of a mix of traditional western with modern characters and human issues. Some deal with spousal abuse and prejudice while telling an action and character-propelled story.

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 would like them to know I write for them, to entertain and help them escape, if only for a few hours, their everyday problems and disappointments. Life is hard, and if you want more depression you can turn on the news and find a bellyful of it. But if you just want to curl up and get away for a spell, then that's what I try to give you. I want readers to have a good feeling when they finish the book, not a notion to fetch a straight razor and a bottle of wine and climb into a tub. There are enough bad things in the world, enough pressures and stresses...if I can relieve that even a tiny bit, then it makes all the work worth every second of it.

Posted by joyceanthony at 12:01 AM EST

Updated: Monday, 17 December 2007 12:53 AM EST

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Interview Questions (No word limit unless stated-let us get to know you!)

Rae Lindley the person:

1.  What three words do you think describe you as a human being?

Cheery, Romantic, Enigmatic.

2.  How do you think others would describe you?

Hmm. They would probably say giggly, thoughtful and quiet because I'm usually in my head listening a lot.

3.  Please tell us what you are most passionate about outside of writing.

Love and my family.  I guess you could say I tend to be in love with love romance-wise because of the idea in supporting one another through thick and thin once the honeymoon phase passes. And of course I'm very passionate about my family because of the support we give each other through the good times and the hard times.

4.  Do you have any pets?  If so, introduce us to them.

No, unfortunately I never really had any pets. Hmm, that is unless you count the classroom rabbit in, hmm 7^th grade. His name was Puck (like the Shakespeare Midsummer Night's Dream fairy) and he was so adorable...until he got out of his cage. That little animal loved to run around my back yard and I always had to run and catch him for like half an hour when it was time to put him back in the cage. I had never seen a rabbit move so fast before then!

5.   What is your most precious memory?

Ooh that's a good question. I was blessed to have many growing up, but the most precious one has to be a mixture of all the times my family came to support me in all the events I had from poetry readings to dance productions and most recently a screening of my short animated film. That was really an amazing feeling because it was the end of working so hard in collaboration with my group and being in a dark room with a full size movie screen (my dream since childhood!) it was completely surreal. Plus we ended up winning the audience award!

6.  What is your most embarrassing memory?

Oh, you just had to ask this one! *laughs*  May I plead the fifth? hehe

7.  If you weren't a writer, what would you be doing with your life?

I would probably be sitting behind a camera somewhere making films or in an easy chair advising clients stretched out on a couch. Both filmmaking and psychology are still my greatest loves and probably would have happened if my writing didn't win out in the end.

8.  In two paragraphs or less write your obituary.

Rachel "Rae" Lindley author of the Cimmerian Series as well as speculative romantic and paranormal fiction has died. She was 280 years of age.

Lindley died in her home in the Italian countryside of Tuscany of chocolate deficiency, according to her agent and leaves behind a legacy of films, 50 books in various fiction and nonfiction genres and two children.

(Hey, a girl can dream can't she? ;-)).

Rae Lindley the writer:

9.   Can you describe the time you realized you were indeed a "real" writer?

That would definitely be recently. One of the reviewers for Cimmerian City told me that she added me to her list of favorite authors. As a reader all my life I've always been the one collecting fave authors and waiting for their new releases so it was pretty mind blowing to have someone consider me one of their faves!

10.  What is going on with your writing these days?

I have a few projects lined up in my head. Of course, I have the third book in the Cimmerian Series waiting in the wings entitled Cimmerian Girl which would tie up everything together in the overall arc presented in the first two books. Raven Blackheart, my heroine, finally comes to grips as the Dracin blood overtakes her Human blood. Dracins are like vampires in that they crave blood but they aren't deterred by garlic, holy water and all the traditional weaknesses. Sunlight is still a possibility as the sunlight on Earth has been blocked by a cloud of pollution and atmosphere since the early 21^st century. One of the fun things about creating Dracins is that their whole mythology is a mystery since they're a new species. So as the series progresses, we really get to see how much they compare to traditional vampires as Raven fights her addiction and severs her family ties to the corporations.

Currently I'm writing the full length book to my romantic urban fantasy novella Ariya: A Kiss of Ashen Twilight which features an Aziza fairy settling in with an underground organization of vampires, werewolves and shifter elves. They've lived underground unseen by human eyes for centuries and a sloppy mistake from a Ren (renegade shifters) may blow their entire operation under the mortals. There's also some historical scenes in the story as I explore their backgrounds which led them to the current time.

I also have a few romantic suspense novels in mind, but they're currently in idea format.

   11.  What are your future goals for your writing?

One of my main goals is to get all of my ideas written down whether in novella, novel or short story format. I have WIP doc. Format that has a list of all my works in progress and I go in and check off each one. It's a great feeling to get them all started and finished one by one. J

12.  Can you describe a typical writing day for you?

Sure! I usually wake up in the morning, get my breakfast and take it to the computer. Check email, group digests and publishing industry news on the various blogs that I'm addicted to reading. Once that's done, I usually take care of promotions and my boards. Sometimes I write if I have a story or scene in my head usually until the afternoon when I break. If I'm in the middle of a book, I usually come back in the evening to type up what I wrote the previous night and work on that for the rest of the evening.

That's usual typical unless I have a book cover or another art project.

13.  Why do you write?

Short answer: because I have to. Long answer: because I have so many stories that need to be told and shared to the world with an underlining message.

14.  What writer most inspires you?  Why?

Hmm...growing up, I would have definitely said Anne Rice because I love her world building skills that simply suck you in. She really made vampires sympathetic and unique and I couldn't help wanting to know more about all of the characters.

Today, for their work ethic, I would probably say Nora Roberts and Stephen King. They really get their butts in the seats and get the writing done; particularly Nora Roberts because she can write different genres and series one after the other.

For the work, I would say Joss Whedon because he's so versatile from comics to film to TV and he writes his characters so unique and engaging.

Oops you said writer, but I couldn't choose just one!

15.  How do you define your writing?

That's a good question because we're always asked about which genre and market our work best fits in. I would say my writing is romantic, suspenseful, sometimes paranormal and definitely speculative in a ‘what if' type of scenario. Sometimes all the elements are thrown together in one big pot of ideas.

16.  In one sentence-what do you want people to say about your writing in fifty years?

Man, those were some great stories I love to curl up and revisit again and again.

Rae Lindley the details:

17.  Can you tell us where to find more information on you? Website?  Blog?

Definitely! My website link is: http://www.raelori.com/

My newly revamped blog is available at: http://raelori.blogspot.com/

18.  Is there a place where readers can reach you?

I love hearing from readers! They can always reach me at Rachel@raelori.com

19.  Can you list all your book titles so people can look for them?

Cimmerian City, the first book that kicks off the Cimmerian Series is available now in print and ebook format.

My other works include:

The Eye of Alloria

One Evening in London

I also have stories in the anthologies:

Weirdly: A Collection of Strange Stories from Wild Child Publishing

A Twist of Fate from Eternal Press

20.  For new readers-what can they expect when they read your book(s)?

They can expect a nice ride because I love putting my characters through some amazing adventures and interesting journeys internally and outwardly.

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?

Hi readers! Much like other authors I love to write the type of stories that I tend to read. Some of it is science fiction, some romance, some suspense and most of what I write tends to be all three. I like to showcase strong heroines in extraordinary situations that really test their wills. Much of my works in progress (and works in the process of finding nice homes) fit this description.

If you'd like to keep up with my current and upcoming projects, you're more than welcome to join my mailing list as I have a monthly newsletter. Feel free to sign up at: http://raelori.com/mailinglist

I also love hearing from readers so feel free to drop me a line anytime!

Posted by joyceanthony at 12:01 AM EST

Updated: Sunday, 16 December 2007 1:12 AM EST

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Anna J. Evans the person:

1.  What three words do you think describe you as a human being?

Sappy, driven, and exhausted

2.  How do you think others would describe you?

Hyper, friendly, and run-off-at-the-mouthish

3.  Please tell us what you are most passionate about outside of writing.

My kids. Mommying is the best job ever (and the hardest). I also love photography and work as a freelance photographer for my state's paper.

4.  Do you have any pets?  If so, introduce us to them.

No pets, just kids-Big'un, Princess, and the Roo

5.  What is your most precious memory?

A tie between the day my son was born and the day I married my husband and my two full time stepdaughters.

6.  What is your most embarrassing memory?

Wow, that's a hard one....hmmm...so many to choose from, lol. I guess the most embarrassing in recent memory was my now 9 year old's second grade open house. I squatted down to ask my youngest to be quiet while 9's teacher was talking and split open my pants, all the way from the waistband down one leg to my knee. Thank god, my hubs had a jacket with him and covered me up and helped me scurry out to the car. My kids still bring this story up on a monthly basis...or whenever their friends are over.

7.  If you weren't a writer, what would you be doing with your life?

Photography full time, I guess. Or maybe I'd just focus on being a mom. I'd love to have one or two more kids and having more time to spend with them would be great.

8.  In two paragraphs or less write your obituary.

Here lies Anna J. Evans, she loved well, lived with a passion, and was lucky enough to share her life with a man who loved her the way she'd only dreamed she could be loved and with three fantastic kids.

Anna J. Evan the writer:

9.   Can you describe the time you realized you were indeed a "real" writer?

When that first royalty check  came in. People were really paying to read my work! Woah, that was cool, and scary too. At that point those readers became people I was determined not to disappoint.

10.  What is going on with your writing these days?

I'm booked through the summer with new releases for Ellora's Cave and have my first two releases coming from Samhain Publishing in February and July 2008. I've got a great mix of spicy stuff coming out-if I do say so myself, lol-a little something for everyone from historical, paranormal, and urban fantasy erotic romance. I've also recently sold my first Young Adult paranormal chick lit. It won't be out until 2009, but I'm getting ready to start edits any day now. Exciting stuff!

11.  What are your future goals for your writing?

I want to keep writing racy fun romances as "Anna", continue to write at least one book a year for my YA pen name, and then get into some more straight urban fantasy. I love world building, and being the workaholic I am, I think I need a third pen name to really round things out, lol.

12.  Can you describe a typical writing day for you?

On the three days my littlest has Mom's Day Out, I usually aim to get about 3,000 words done plus any edits or promo things that I have going on that day. That takes up about the whole day until time to get him at 2:00 p.m. On weekends and days the Roo is home, I trrryyyy to get about 1500 words done if possible, but it can be difficult. He's three and really into Mama participation in everything, even watching Sesame Street.

13.  Why do you write?

I have to write. If not...my mind will race all night with all the stories trying to get out.

14.  What writer most inspires you?  Why?

Wow, hard question. I love Mary Janice Davidson's unique voice. I love Scott Westerfeld's imaginings for the young adult future. I really admire Sylvia Day and Gena Showalter and my critique partner, December Quinn, who is such a talented urban fantasy writer. And I could really go on and on.

15.  How do you define your writing?

Anna is fun with a healthy dose of romance and an abundance of heat. Sassy and seductive, and hopefully with some imaginative twists people haven't seen a million times before.

16.  In one sentence-what do you want people to say about your writing in fifty years?

Man, that was an entertaining book, one for my keeper shelf.

Anna J. Evans the details:

17.  Can you tell us where to find more information on you? Website?  Blog?

Sure!

Website: http://annajevans.com/

Blog: http://annajevans.blogspot.com/

Writer's group: http://dnwriters.com/ (We have a HUGE holiday contest going on if this goes live before the holidays.)

18.  Is there a place where readers can reach you?

Head over to my website: http://annajevans.com/ and hit the email link. I'm thrilled to hear from readers! Email is my favorite way to procrastinate.

19.  Can you list all your book titles so people can look for them?

Of course, lol.

From Ellora's Cave Publishing (all of which are listed on my author page, link below):

http://www.ellorascave.com/AuthorsBooks.asp?AuthorCode=AJE

Novels and novellas:

"Enchanted"

"Love Fool"

"Main Attraction" Perfectly Wicked 1

"Sinfully Sweet" Perfectly Wicked 2

"Bad Apple" Perfectly Wicked 3

"As the Lady Wishes" co-written with December Quinn

"Demon's Triad" co-written with December Quinn (January 2008)

"Deep Cover" (February 2008)

Short stories and anthologies:

"Ellora's Cavemen: Dreams of the Oasis Volume 2"

"Off the Deep End"

"Seducing the Enemy"

"Decking the Hollisters"

"Ellora's Cavemen: Seasons of Seduction Volume 4" (Dec. 22, 2007)

From Samhain Publishing:

http://samhainpublishing.com/

"Captured" erotic historical February 2008

"Devil Take Me" July 2008

20.  For new readers-what can they expect when they read your book(s)?

Sexy, but always a romance. There is a lot of nookie, so if you don't like that...well, then you might not like my books. But my mother has read them all and she's sixty, lol.

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?

Just that I write to entertain, to give the kind of read that takes you away from the rest of the world and provides that much needed escape we all crave from time to time. If I've provided that for my readers, I feel I've succeeded.

Posted by joyceanthony at 12:01 AM EST

Updated: Saturday, 15 December 2007 2:26 AM EST

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1.  What three words do you think describe you as a human being?

Driven romantic dreamer

2.  How do you think others would describe you?

Completely nuts!  When I tell people about my average day, they tend to wind up exhausted just listening to it all.  But somehow it all ends up working out, mostly due to lots and lots of coffee.

3.  Please tell us what you are most passionate about outside of writing.

My family.  My husband and I met when we were 18, just two months into our freshman year of college, and we've been attached at the hip ever since.  We got married right out of college, and have three boys, with Baby #4 due in May 2008.  Sometimes keeping everything running smoothly, making sure everyone has what they need (both physically and emotionally) can be crazy, but it's worth every minute. 

4.  Do you have any pets?  If so, introduce us to them.

Oh yes - this zoo wouldn't be complete without the animals.  We have a German Shepherd-Husky mix named Sheba, a sweet, cuddly cat called Phantom (or El Gato Diablo by those unfortunate to have annoyed him and who bear the scars of their misfortune) and two Parakeets called Zig Zag and Little Peep.

5.  What is your most precious memory?

I'll skip over the obvious - my wedding and the births of my children.  Ok, I take that back.  I'd have to say one of the memories that I revisit often, especially when life seems to be crashing out of control, would be dancing with my husband at our wedding.  After all the stress of planning, and the heightened emotions of the actual ceremony, as soon as he took me in his arms he whispered "It's just you and me now."  and the whole room faded away. 

6.  What is your most embarrassing memory?

Um...I plead the Fifth! 

7.  If you weren't a writer, what would you be doing with your life?

Before I became a full-time writer, I wrote web applications.  It was a good job, and I was fairly decent at it, but it wasn't my passion.  I'd imagine if I hadn't had the life of a writer dangling before me, temptation incarnate, I would probably have continued on that career path.

8.   In two paragraphs or less write your obituary.

ACK!  I don't have time to die - there's too much to do!

Tricia Ballad the writer:

9.  Can you describe the time you realized you were indeed a "real" writer?

I think for me, that realization came in stages.  Being a writer was always part of my identity, even as a young child.  As I neared adulthood, the voices of reason crept in and informed me that I could be a writer, but I needed a "real" job to pay the bills.  (not that there's anything wrong with that - I'm rather fond of having a roof over my head!)

The day I cashed my first check earned from putting words on paper, I realized that perhaps the two weren't mutually exclusive - writing AND paying the bills.

Then there was the day I saw my name on Amazon.com and realized I had wandered across the line from "writer" to "author."

Seeing my first work of fiction hit the virtual ebook shelves opened up another door.  My next goal is to add the title "novelist" to my mental resume.  I'm hoping to achieve that goal in 2008.

10.  What is going on with your writing these days?

I'm on track to transition from non-fiction to full-time fiction in 2008.  I have several stories under consideration with various publishers, and a novel that I expect to finish in June or July. 

11.   What are your future goals for your writing?

To write fiction full-time.

12.   Can you describe a typical writing day for you?

I get up around 6:30am, take my older two boys to school by 7:35, come home and write a bit until the youngest decides he's bored with independent play, or it's time to pick up my middle boy from preschool at 10:30, whichever comes first.  After lunch, the youngest goes down for his nap and my middle son has quiet time, so I can usually get some writing done then too.  I have about 14 hours of babysitting per week, which I use to work on non-fiction, since for me that takes a lot more concentration than fiction.  If I'm behind, I also squeeze in a couple of hours of writing from 3:30 - 5:30 or 6p when my husband is home to entertain the kids.  Unlike a lot of writers, I avoid working after they go to bed because by the end of the day I'm completely worn out and really not intelligent enough any more for anything more mentally challenging than staring at TV shows!

13.  Why do you write?

Because I can.  Because it's how I relate to my world - through stories and characters. 

14.   What writer most inspires you?  Why?

It's probably trite, but J.K. Rowling is one of my heros.  She wrote this great series of novels as a single mother, raising her kids and holding down a day job.  For most of us - myself included - "just" being a decent parent, even with the help of a spouse, is a full-time job!  Add a 9-5 job on top of that, AND somehow find the time and mental energy to write novels? 

15. How do you define your writing?

I write stories that leave the reader feeling that there *is* a little bit of magic, of romance, even in the mundane of situations. 

16.   In one sentence-what do you want people to say about your writing in fifty years?

"Ms. Ballad's stories always left readers seeing a ray of hope in the world."

Tricia Ballad  the details:

17.   Can you tell us where to find more information on you? Website?  Blog?

My website is http://www.triciaballad.com/.  I'm working on a MySpace page and will be putting up a blog on my website with posts about new stories, the writing process, and sneak peeks into upcoming work.  I'll post links to the blog and the MySpace page on my website as soon as they're ready to launch.

18.  Is there a place where readers can reach you?

My email address is Tricia@TriciaBallad.com.  I'm always happy to hear from readers!

19.   Can you list all your book titles so people can look for them?

My current release is a short story called The Perfect Candidate available from Wild Rose Press.  (http://www.thewildrosepress.com/index.php?main_page=product_info&products_id=607)

20.   For new readers-what can they expect when they read your book(s)?

Here's an excerpt:

Caroline went into her office and closed the door. What could Joshua need to talk about so urgently that he'd call twice in one afternoon? Could he finally have had it with her lack of time for him? She took a deep breath and told herself if he was calling to say he was finished with her, she could remain calm-at least until she hung up the phone. Before she had a chance to imagine life without Joshua, Caroline dialed his number. A strangling wave of loneliness swept over her at the thought he might not be there by the time she finally got through the endless pile of work on her desk.

The phone rang three times as she paced the room. Finally, he answered, his voice strong and confident. "Joshua Walters."

Caroline closed her eyes and savored the image of the man she loved. He kept his sandy brown hair pulled back in a shoulder-length ponytail, but a few wisps inevitably escaped. His body was toned and muscular from long hours of heavy labor, and his pale blue eyes always seemed to be laughing.

 "Hi, Joshua," Caroline said as she neatened the piles of paperwork on her desk. "Look, I'm sorry I didn't call you back the other day[1] . I finally got out of the office around seven o'clock, and I just went home and crashed. I meant to call you back first thing this morning, but- "

"-Hey, sweetheart," his gentle, solid voice cut her off. "Slow down. Everything okay?"

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 am an average woman, with all the hopes and stresses and worries that all women have, as we juggle work, family, relationships, and everything else.  I don't write stories from a serene vacation house in some exotic retreat - I write amidst the loose ends and chaos of everyday life.  That tends to come out in my characters and their stories.  My characters all find that love of a lifetime, but it's rarely in the form of Prince Charming riding in on a white steed to set all the troubles of life to rights.  Finding that one true love helps my heroines find the strength to face life.

Posted by joyceanthony at 12:01 AM EST

Updated: Friday, 14 December 2007 2:33 AM EST

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Walter McElligott the Person 

1.  What three words do you think describe you as a human being?

Honest, faithful (married 42 years), caring
 
2.  How do you think others would describe you?

Funny, intelligent, persistent
 
3.  Please tell us what you are most passionate about outside of writing.

When I was struck down with spinal meningitis as a teen, through the love
of Jesus Christ, I survived the trauma of brain surgery. In spite of the
resulting seizure disorder and left hemiparesis, I persevered 5 years of
college and post-Bachelor's degree studies, 25 years employment, Thanx to my love of Jesus Christ and my family, my wife and two children.
 
4.  Do you have any pets?  If so, introduce us to them.

No, Max, our schnauzer was with us for a dozen years, before he died,
several years ago. My story about Max will be published in a Dog Book
anthology by John Cali, due out in January 2008
 
5.  What is your most precious memory?

Our daughter's graduation from USAF Basic training in San Antonio, Texas, even though, her ceremony was finished and she was on her way home at about the same time we got off the bus from Chicago.
 
6.  What is your most embarrassing memory?

Having lost so much weight, my pants fell off my waist at our Monday
night prayer group. No fear, I gained it all back. Fortunately, one of
the ladies was talking with Joan, in front of my mishap.
 
7.  If you weren't a writer, what would you be doing with your life?

I really don't know, but having twice been placed on disability in 1983
and in 1997, my writing has been a lifesaver for me, along with the
writing support I've received from my writing group, the Chicago writers Association (http://chicagowrites.org), and my publisher, Lynda S. Burch, of Guardian Angel Publishing. For anyone doubting this, Joan invites you to our house during one of my all too frequent hard drive crashes.
 
8.  In two paragraphs or less write your obituary.
 
Walter enjoyed life, and looked forward to the promise of heaven, but
only if his wife and family was with him. Not necessarily at the same
time
 
 
Walter McElligott, the writer:
 
 
9.   Can you describe the time you realized you were indeed a "real"
writer?

When I originally wrote Abraham & Anna at The Birth of Jesus, twenty
years before it was published as, "A Blessed Bethlehem Birth", at
Christmas 2006. Soon after that, others recognized my writing gift, and I became the editor/writer of our prayer group newsletter.
 
10.  What is going on with your writing these days?

I am the editor of the Chicago Writers Association, CLARION Newsletter,
which I was asked to develop in 2005.
 
"My wife's 1997 healing from Breast Cancer", 0/04, <www.Kmareka.com>.
 
"Memories in the Making", Published in Cup of Comfort for Weddings, 12/06
I have other stories in anthology editors' hands. I am writing a story
about the Great Chicago Fire of October 1871 from a child's POV.
 
11. What are your future goals for your writing?

To write every day I have left in life, with the knowledge that I've
lived more days than I have left, a very blessed life. I know that not
all I write will be published, but I do have a story to tell to young and
old.

12.  Can you describe a typical writing day for you?
 
A typical writing day for me begins and ends in my second-bedroom, turned office. I'm behind a computer, where, as a one-handed typist, I write everything from letters to editors and bloggers about protecting our lovely, rural village from "progress." This is also known as Illinois's
fraudulent plan to build an unneeded, unwanted third Chicago airport in
our backyards, and from the effect of sprawl and increased truck and
train traffic.
 
I also write and edit material for the CWA CLARION, and my own personal story and book review writing at MickLitgroup (at) yahoogroups.com.
 
13.  Why do you write?

To stay sane-see above about computer hard drive crashes.
 
14.  What writer most inspires you?  Why?

I just discovered William Martin, who began writing in 1979, with Back
Bay, and recently wrote, "The Lost Constitution." I love history and
Martin does a wonderful job with old Boston, the Northeast, and the
American Revolution.
 
The other novels I like to read are legal mysteries. I've found David
Baldacci to be one of the best, followed by john Grisham.
 
15.  How do you define your writing?
 
Primarily, seeing the world through the eyes of innocent children
 
16.  In one sentence-what do you want people to say about your writing in fifty years?

Golly, Walt's writing actually lasted this long?
 
Walter McElligott, the details:
 
17.  Can you tell us where to find more information on you? Website?
Blog?

I plan to be creating a website soon, and have blogs at MickLit, Eastern
Will Co-IL-Irish-author.
 
18.  Is there a place where readers can reach you?

Email: wmcauth07 (at) juno.com, GAP Publisher's web
 
19.  Can you list all your book titles so people can look for them?

A Blessed Bethlehem Birth, Guardian Angel Publishing
 
http://www.guardianangelpublishing.com
 
 
20.  For new readers-what can they expect when they read your book(s)?

A Blessed Bethlehem Birth" told by Abraham & Anna Mousenstern, is an
illustrated children's story of two mice and their animal friends that
prepare the stable for Mary and Joseph and the birth of the Baby Jesus.
ISBN 10: 1-933090-21-4 ISBN 13: 9781933090219

http://www.guardianangelpublishing.com
 
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 did an assorted degree of writing during my 25 years of working in
Chicago's Loop, as an insurance claim manager for several companies, and in Roosevelt University's Legal Assistant Program, which led me to
working as a paralegal with 2 Chicago law firms. In the first law firm, I
researched and wrote a supplement to the sole practitioner's text on
small business taxation, and drafted a second manuscript on small
businesses. With the second midsize city firm, I was the paralegal for a
partner and 2 associates in the Worker's Compensation Department, which entailed a good amount of legal research and case decision writing.

God Bless, Walt McElligott
Beecher, IL USA, 60401
Editor of Chicago Writers Association (http://chicagowrites.org)
 
CLARION Newsletter (quarterly) January 1, 2008

Posted by joyceanthony at 12:01 AM EST

Updated: Thursday, 13 December 2007 3:06 AM EST

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Niama Williams the person:

1. What three words do you think describe you as a human being?

Saintly, reverence-filled, compassionate.

2. How do you think others would describe you?

Option A:  arrogant, intimidating, demanding, judgmental

Option B:  discerning, insightful, intelligent, perceptive

3. Please tell us what you are most passionate about outside of writing.

Love.  At 45, I have waited a long time for my soul mate.  I can feel him in the ether, but we have yet to fully engage.  I wait on God and spiritual direction before taking the next step.  I have learned that faith and restraint have their rewards.

4. Do you have any pets? If so, introduce us to them.

No, but I ADORE other people's pets and they usually snuggle up to me.

5. What is your most precious memory?

Meeting my soul mate for the first time.  I'd never met a man who literally robbed me of speech.  An interesting journey begun, and two novels later ......

6. What is your most embarrassing memory?

My encounter with the 74^th Street School bully and a very sour pickle I accidentally knocked out of her hand.  Which she purposely stepped on and then forced me to eat in front of the entire schoolyard.  No teacher in site .....

7. If you weren't a writer, what would you be doing with your life?

Teaching, which I am blessed to enjoy as much as I do writing.  I am currently moving from teaching English at the college level to teaching at the high school level.  High school was pretty much a horror for me except for the teachers, and I am now old enough and mellow enough to deal with the bureaucracy .......

8. In two paragraphs or less write your obituary.

Sorry, don't focus on death.  Communicate with spirits?  Yes.  Anticipate my death?  I'd rather contemplate sunflowers or a T. S. Eliot poem.

Niama Williams the writer:

9. Can you describe the time you realized you were indeed a "real" writer?

Yes, when I realized that I understood my writing process-that I write a piece, fuss with it for 2-3 hours, then set it aside and ignore it for 4-6 weeks so I can truly edit with fresh eyes.  Understanding that process let me know I was finally a pro!!!!!

10. What is going on with your writing these days?

It's sporadic.  Desperate for the money to market and promote what has already been written!  Desperate for full-time employment!!!!

11. What are your future goals for your writing?

Publish more, promote and market and sell!!!!!

12. Can you describe a typical writing day for you?

Bed between 4 and 6 a.m., on a good day.  Up at noon, shower or not, at the computer, sun goes down, meal or two while watching tv, phone call to a friend while washing the dishes as there is no music in the kitchen, back at the computer; Criminal Intent, CSI: NY, Numbers, Criminal Minds or SVU, one more glance at the computer, fall asleep at the computer reading email, finally get in bed.

13. Why do you write?

"Because there is intense sanity in it."  It helps me understand myself, my world, the events happening in my life.

14. What writer most inspires you? Why?

T. S. Eliot, Rev. Joseph William Massey, Toni Cade Bambara.  All three took their deepest pain as well as every day occurrences and life events and made of them High Art.

15. How do you define your writing?

Define?  Life-saving.  Sanity-saving.  Instructive.  Revelatory.  Complex, dense, difficult.  Multi-layered.  Erudite but passionate, often erotic.  Devoted to saving others from repeating my mistakes.

16. In one sentence-what do you want people to say about your writing in fifty years?

That they loved it; that it was necessary as air.

Niama Williams the details:

17. Can you tell us where to find more information on you? Website? Blog?

http://www.blowingupbarriers.com/

www.lulu.com/drni

18. Is there a place where readers can reach you?

AuthorsDen, MySpace, PIVTR, Ning.com, OWN, and Nothing Binding.

19. Can you list all your book titles so people can look for them?

The Journey, Detective Fiction, Sojourn in Calidia, Steven, Famous Faces, Soul Work, Black Poetic Feminism:  The Imagination of Toi Derricotte.

20. For new readers-what can they expect when they read your book(s)?

Density.  Complexity.  Passion.  Eroticism (in places).  Visual writing.  Hints of character to prod you into reading more.

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?

That, ultimately, it is not about me; it is about sharing who I am to save YOU.

Posted by joyceanthony at 12:01 AM EST

Updated: Tuesday, 11 December 2007 11:57 PM EST

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1.  What three words do you think describe you as a human being?

Humor, compassion, dedication

2.  How do you think others would describe you?

He cares about people, and he'd like to leave this world a better place than how he found it.

3.  Please tell us what you are most passionate about outside of writing.

I'm most passionate about communicating concepts and ideas through professional, client-based, video production.

4.  Do you have any pets?  If so, introduce us to them.

We have a cat named Aubie, after the mascot for Auburn University. Aubie was wild when we got her, but she has become totally domesticated now. The funniest thing about her is she likes to play ball, just like a dog. The only difference is she doesn't bring the ball back. She'll race across the backyard, leap high into the air to catch the ball, and then she pounces on it. Aubie is a brown and black tabby. She purrs like a speedboat.

5.  What is your most precious memory?

We had Boxers when I was growing up. One day, someone stole our dog, Blitz. He was gone so long that my parents went out and bought a new Boxer. A few weeks later, when I came home from school, there was our dog, Blitz, nearly unconscious by the fireplace. His leather collar was almost severed, where he had pulled himself free, his feet were severely swollen from a long journey back home, and he was too tired to open his eyes. Seeing that big, lovable, sweet dog again was something I'll never forget.

6.  What is your most embarrassing memory?

We lived out in the country in Michigan when I was a child. There were lakes nearby, and it was customary for us to keep swimming trunks on, under our jeans. This gave us the option to ride out bikes all over the place, and go swimming whenever we wanted to. One time, I raced on my bike toward the lake, along with several of my friends. We dumped the bikes in the sand, and ran toward the water, as usual. Almost without stopping, we'd kick off our shoes, pull off our pants, and hit the water without breaking stride. But, on this particular day, I had forgotten to put on my swimming trunks in the morning...oops!

7.  If you weren't a writer, what would you be doing with your life?

I already get to do this through my video production company. It has allowed me to travel all over the world, meet lots of interesting people, and produce award-winning video programs and television commercials.

8. In two paragraphs or less write your obituary.

I think this is something best left to others who are more objective.

Max Elliot Anderson the writer:

9.   Can you describe the time you realized you were indeed a "real" writer?

This happened just after 9/11, when my client video production slowed down. I began writing, and shared my work with my father, who was the author of over 70 books. When he liked what he saw, that was the first step. Then my oldest sister, who taught creative writing at the university level, had a similar reaction. The final step was when my oldest brother, who is a voracious reader, loved my work. That's when I thought, "Hey, there just might be something here."

10.  What is going on with your writing these days?

A little over a year ago, I stopped writing in order to concentrate on building my platform, promoting my published books, speaking in schools, and exploring additional publishing opportunities. I located an agent, Terry Burns at Hartline, and this is opening some interesting doors. The truth is, I can't stand not writing, and look forward to picking that up again as soon as possible.

11.  What are your future goals for your writing?

I've completed a total of 35 manuscripts. I'd like to continue writing more stories like these, but, obviously, a wider market for them needs to develop before that would make much sense.

12.  Can you describe a typical writing day for you?

Most of my writing is done from around 6 PM until 11 PM. I also like to write on holidays and weekends when video clients won't be bothering me. Before I start to write, I've completed all my research. But I don't write to an outline. The story develops right before my very eyes, as if I were watching a movie.

I won't start a chapter that I can't finish in that sitting, and typically finish two or three of them in each session.

13.  Why do you write?

I find that I can't, NOT write. I'm more at peace, when I'm writing, than at any other time in my life. Helping others discover a love of reading simply adds to that fire.

14.  What writer most inspires you?  Why?

At first my inspiration was simply to write the kinds of books that I would have liked as a child. My father became an inspiration as well as a mentor, until his death nearly two years ago, at the age of eighty-three. I grew up hating to read. Now I write for other boys who might be growing up like I did. But the inspiration comes from the amazing responses I get from children and their parents when they tell me that one of my books was the first one they'd ever read all the way through. Not because they had to, but because they couldn't stop reading.

15.  How do you define your writing?

My books are a cross between the typical, linear page, and the highly visual world - with video games, TV, computers, and movies - where kids live today.

16. In one sentence-what do you want people to say about your writing in fifty years?

Max Elliot Anderson's books are just as exciting and relevant now as the day they were written, still reaching out to reluctant readers.

Max Elliot Anderson the details:

17.  Can you tell us where to find more information on you? Website?  Blog?

Author web site http://mailto:mander8813@aol.com

Books for Boys blog http://booksandboys.blogspot.com/

50 pages of reviews http://maxbookreviews.blogspot.com/

18.  Is there a place where readers can reach you?

Through the author web site and/or the blog

19.  Can you list all your book titles so people can look for them?

NEWSPAPER CAPER,  NORTH WOODS POACHERS, MOUNTAIN CABIN MYSTERY, BIG RIG RUSTLERS, SECRET OF ABBOTT'S CAVE & LEGEND OF THE WHITE WOLF

20. For new readers-what can they expect when they read your book(s)?

Readers tell me that reading one of my books is like being in - not reading - but being in an exciting or scary movie. This comes from my highly visual background of film and video production. Readers will find lots of humor, dialog, and heart pounding action in my action-adventures and mysteries written especially for boys...but girls love them too.

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?

This is especially for people who have not been published yet. Understand that it takes time. It's common to read that many authors waited ten years or more before it happened. It seems like a sort of right of passage for things not to fall into place right away. And welcome rejections. They simply prove that you have at lease completed your manuscript - a task many never complete.

Then, just look at me. I grew up hating to read. I don't have the wealth of background to draw on from a life of reading good books. Yet, my books connect with kids. English was one of my worst subjects. It wasn't until I reached my senior year in high school that I got serious about my education. In college, my degree is in psychology, which I also find helpful in writing and character development.

So, don't get discouraged. If I can find a place in literature, so can you.

As long as you believe in yourself, it doesn't matter what anyone else says. Realize that sometimes, the people closest to us just don't get it, so they can be the most hurtful early on.

For us, it's a really big deal to step into writing, to pour out our insides onto paper, only to have others rip it apart. But if you have something important to say, it will shine through. Listen to, and learn from criticism, but never change who you are.

I write from my life's experience. The stories and characters become very real to me. Most of my books originate in places where I've lived, or where I've traveled to produce films and video program. I write because I love it.

You should only write if you love it too.

Max Elliot Anderson

Posted by joyceanthony at 12:01 AM EST

Updated: Tuesday, 11 December 2007 1:14 AM EST

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10.  What is going on with your writing these days?

11.  What are your future goals for your writing?

12.  Can you describe a typical writing day for you?

13.  Why do you write?

14.  What writer most inspires you?  Why?

15.  How do you define your writing?

16.  In one sentence—what do you want people to say about your writing in fifty years?

17.  Can you tell us where to find more information on you? Website?  Blog?

18.  Is there a place where readers can reach you? 

They can write to me through my publisher Five Star/Gale.

Still in print are:  The Inferno Collection - Five Star/Gale

                     A Devil in the Pines-  Afton Publishing           

                     Where Is Robert? -     Royal Fireworks Press

I also have short stories in the new anthologies: Touched by Wonder and

Ruins Terra

20.    For new readers—what can they expect when they read your book(s)?

21.    Take as much space as necessary to speak to our readers—what would you like them to know about you and your writing?

You can read a number of my short stories for free on the internet. I encourage you to do so. You’ll find romance, mystery, fantasy, science fiction and horror. You can also go to your library and request my books. I encourage you to do that as well. Libraries are the best bargain around. Happy reading!

Posted by joyceanthony at 12:01 AM EST

Updated: Monday, 10 December 2007 12:33 AM EST

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1.  What three words do you think describe you as a human being?

Creative. Intelligent. Compassionate.

2.  How do you think others would describe you?

Approachable, a good listener, a good friend.

3.  Please tell us what you are most passionate about outside of writing.

Traveling and spending time with friends.

4.  Do you have any pets?  If so, introduce us to them.

I have two doxies, Sydney and Wyatt.

 5.  What is your most precious memory?

Spending time with my family at our summer home when I was a kid.

6.  What is your most embarrassing memory?

I couldn't tell you.

7.  If you weren't a writer, what would you be doing with your life?

I would be pursuing something artistic, like drawing or painting.

8.  In two paragraphs or less write your obituary.

Gayle Martin's mission in life was to do everything she could to preserve history for future generations.

Gayle Martin the writer:

 9.   Can you describe the time you realized you were indeed a "real" writer?

The first time I had a manuscript professionally evaluated by a potential publisher.  I figured I would get creamed.  Instead they told me I was very good - much better in fact than the majority of the prospective writers that approached them.

10.  What is going on with your writing these days?

I am currently working on the third installment in the Luke and Jenny series.  This one will be about Frank and Jesse James.

11.  What are your future goals for your writing?

To complete the Luke and Jenny series.  I have at least one more book planned - after that I'm not sure.

12.  Can you describe a typical writing day for you?

I have to work in my writing around other activities.  I often find I'll get my best ideas either late at night or first thing in the morning.

13.  Why do you write?

Why not.

14.  What writer most inspires you?  Why?

For the Luke and Jenny books the writer who most inspires me is Marguerite Henry.  She wrote Brighty of the Grand Canyon, and the Misty series of books that I loved as a child and read over and over again.  I hope that my readers will love my books as much as I loved hers.

15.  How do you define your writing?

I'm a storyteller, first and foremost.  Right now I write stories about two youngsters who are on vacation with their mother and they visit historic places where they run into ghosts who take them back in time.  On their time-travel trip they meet real people and witness real events.

16.  In one sentence-what do you want people to say about your writing in fifty years?

That Gayle Martin made history fun and entertaining.

Gayle Martin the details:

17.  Can you tell us where to find more information on you? Website?  Blog?

My website is gaylemartin.net, and I have a blog called ‘The Accidental Ghost Hunter.' It can be found at http:theaccidentalghosthunter.blogspot.com.

18.  Is there a place where readers can reach you?

I can be contacted by e-mail from my website.

19.  Can you list all your book titles so people can look for them?

My first book is actually a WWII era cookbook.  It's called Anna's Kitchen. My other books are Gunfight at the O.K. Corral: Luke and Jenny Visit Tombstone, and Billy the Kid and the Lincoln County War.

20.  For new readers-what can they expect when they read your book(s)?

My cookbook is an interactive history book.  Not only will they learn about the WWII home front, they can prepare the foods that people cooked back then.  With the Luke and Jenny books they can travel back to the days of the Old West and experience the real adventures of the real people who lived in those days.  They will find is it a lot different than Hollywood.

 
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 want to do what I can to get young people excited about reading.  I come from a family of readers.  I can still recall my parents talking about the books they read at the dinner table, so I grew up reading too.  I loved books.  I still do.  Books could take me to other places and times, and I could experience all kinds of things through the eyes of the characters in the books I read

 Books can ignite a child's imagination and inspire their creativity. I believe that children who read get higher grades in school than children who don't read.  And I believe that children who read will achieve more as adults than children who don't read.  

One of my sisters-in-law taught her children how to read at the age of two. Needless to say, she really encouraged them to read from a very young age.  Both children were straight A students all through school, then one grew up to be an engineer, the other a medical doctor. 

 Another sister-in-law did not read, and she would not encourage her children to read either.  One decided he liked reading anyway, much to her chagrin.  He too got above average grades in school and even majored in journalism in college.  The other, who never became much of a reader, was a C student and later became a college drop-out.  I think the lesson here for parents is that if you want your children to do well in school, and to be successful in life, you should encourage them to read.

Posted by joyceanthony at 12:01 AM EST

Updated: Saturday, 8 December 2007 11:07 PM EST

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