What is your writing process like?
I don't follow a routine. I have plenty of note books lying around and always have one in my bag where I write my ideas, observations, characters, plots throughout the day.
How do you come up with ideas for stories and characters?
From people I encounter, places I visit, memories, my students (I am a primary school teacher), family, friends, words, sentences, etc
What do the words “writer’s block” mean to you?
I do have it often. Your mind just blanks and you cannot think of anything. I just panic because it is like your mind collapses and you cannot put anything on paper.
How do you process and deal with negative book reviews?
I am not going to lie. I haven't had to deal with many negative reviews. However, I am my worst enemy, nothing you will tell me is worse than what I have already told myself.
What is the most challenging part of your writing process?
Giving your "baby" to someone else to edit.
How long have you been writing, or when did you start?
I have always written stories. My first self published youth novel was in 2020.
What advice would you give writers working on their first book?
Don't give. Just keep writing. And read as much as you can, different genres, authors, books. Just read and write, write, write.
What inspired the idea for your book?
The loss of my grandmother.
What do you need in your writing space to help you stay focused?
Pen and paper.
If you could spend a day with another popular author, whom would you choose?
I have got a few. Gabriel Garcia Marquez, Jorge Amado and the criminal mastermind Agatha Christie.