What is your writing process like?
It's generally when I think of a concept, I begin working on creating an outline. Only then do I actually begin delving into the creative story writing process. Currently I have 2 ideas/concepts that I am working with, both address children. Fantasy, which is by far the most talking about subject in the kingdom of the little people. I call them little people because I can't really see them as "newlings" in the world. They seem to have been born with wisdom and knowledge and are programed to drink and absorb huge amounts of it on a daily basis. Maybe I just respect them a lot.
How do you come up with ideas for stories and characters?
It's the children whom I enjoy meeting and discussing with. This habit started when my granddaughter started (at the age of 2) a discussion time. She would enter my room at 8 pm and spend the next 30 to 45 minutes in what she described as discussions. If that for some reason couldn't happen, she'd remind me, and we had to have an extended one the next day. "Discissions" ranged anywhere from ancient man to Prehistoric world, by the way she learnt and understood all the technical names for periods - Triassic, Jurassic, Cretaceous to dragons, fairies and other worldly creatures... of planets, etc. You get the point am sure.
What do the words “writer’s block” mean to you?
Goodness! despite the best inputs and motivation, one still hits a road bump, every now and then. You have the idea, maybe even a plot but you just don't know where to start from! I know it sounds crazy...
How do you process and deal with negative book reviews?
Either I learn from them or ignore them...no overreaction for sure.
What is the most challenging part of your writing process?
Starting your first word!
How long have you been writing, or when did you start?
For the last 40 years, Poetry, leisure, travel, people, wildlife, culture...till I arrived in my comfort zone! Children. I have travelled through jungles, deserts, mountains, seas, across many continents but have never tired of seeing new and wonderous things that God created!
What advice would you give writers working on their first book?
Get your subject, plot and outline ready before you write a word of content.