What is your writing process like?
Each book I have written has been different. ALL THAT LINGERS, a historical novel, was based on family stories, stories I heard from other displaced by war. ALMOST HOME, THE STORY OF OTTO GRUENBAUM, is a non fiction book about my uncle, a pianist, refugee, and Ritchie Boy. THE BEST THING ABOUT BENNETT, is a contemporary novel about a woman's journey of self-discovery. CREATIVE PAINTING ON EVERYDAY CERAMICS, and the revised edition of THE CLAY CANVAS were a result of years working as a ceramic painter. AN AMUSING ALPHABET a children's book was based on illustrations first done on ceramics. And LET'S PLAY SEE YOU LATER, ALLIGATOR is a fun rhyming, coloring and drawing book inspired by my youngest grandchild, and illustrated by renowned illustrator, Dennis Kendrick. Inspiration can come from all directions.
How do you come up with ideas for stories and characters?
In my novels and short stories,I imagine characters in certain situations, and the plot develops from there.
What do the words “writer’s block” mean to you?
Getting stuck, either because you're not sure what comes next, or you've lost the reason for telling the story. Sometimes stepping back and taking a rest will point you back in the right direction.
How do you process and deal with negative book reviews?
They can be painful, but don't take them personally. Pay attention to what is pointed out. If reviews always point out the same weaknesses, pay attention. If it's too late for this story, you can avoid making the same mistakes for the next one. Learning never ends.
What is the most challenging part of your writing process?
For me it's plot.
How long have you been writing, or when did you start?
I started late. I discovered the joy of writing when I wrote a how-to book about painting on ceramics.
What advice would you give writers working on their first book?
Write, revise, rest, revise again. If there are spots you find boring, your readers will too. Don't rush it.
How do you develop your plot and characters?
I develop characters first and let the plot develop from there.
How many books have you written, and which is your favorite?
Two novels, one non-fiction historical, a ceramics how-to, a book of short stories, and two children's books. My favorite is ALL THAT LINGERS, a historical novel World War II and its aftermath, set in Vienna; and the non-fiction book ALMOST HOME about my uncle, a Viennese pianist, refugee, and Ritchie Boy.
What part of the book did you have the hardest time writing?
the ends can be difficult.
What inspired the idea for your book?
Each book has been different, as I mentioned in Question 1. Inspiration can come from so many directions - personal experiences, stories read or overheard, hopes and dreams as well as fears.
What was your hardest scene to write, and why?
In my non-fiction book it was describing how the loss of my uncle, still unexplained, has haunted the family.
What do you need in your writing space to help you stay focused?
I work on a desktop so I need a desk or table, and I need quiet.
If you could spend a day with another popular author, whom would you choose?
Ann Tyler, because I love how she loves her characters and sees whole worlds in what would otherwise seem like small lives.
Jacqueline Winspear, because of her thorough knowledge and understanding of how war affects people.
When was the last time you Googled yourself and what did you find?
Last week and was surprised how many times my books were mentioned.