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Friday, April 13, 2012

Linda Acaster - Reading a Writer's Mind

It is our pleasure to have Linda Acaster with us today to share her book "Reading a Writer's Mind: Exploring Short Fiction - First Thought to Finished Story."

Where do you currently live?

Yorkshire, northern England, part of the United Kingdom (of her ma’am, Queen Elizabeth II).

Tell us a little bit about your life.
I live in a house, drive a car, shop at the local supermarket, complain about Government taxes. It’s as boring as most people’s; that’s why I write fiction.

When did you first start writing?
At school. I was hopeless at music, hopeless at maths, hopeless at sport, but found I enjoyed composition in English. My teachers took an interest in my stories, too. Nothing beats encouragement!

What was your very first story about?
A boy and girl going through a wood and being hunted by wolves. I was about eleven and it was the first I wrote for myself. It ran to fill an exercise book. Don’t ask where it came from, I have no idea. It certainly wasn’t any life experience – but that, I think was the whole point. It has been the point in my writing ever since.

Have you written anything that you were too afraid to let anyone read?
No matter how much I’ve had published my heart always beats fast when it is shared for a response. But yes, there is one novel that I stopped at p80, despite it being well outlined. It was so dark that I decided that I didn’t want to go there, never mind have anyone else go there.

Did you experience anything you’ve written yourself?
Not in its entirety, though I mine parallel emotions. The closest “this happened to me” was a near-death experience that triggered a novel idea while I was still experiencing it – how bizarre is that? It still has to be written further than the opening.

Who are several of your greatest literary inspirations?
Oddly enough, I don’t think I have any. I’ve liked different writers in different genres through my life, but if I were to re-read those books now I think I’d go… meh. They were right when I needed them and I certainly learned from their techniques.

What kind of education have you received, and how has that affected your writing?
I have no degree or higher educational certificates. I left school at 16 to go to work – oh that life was that simple for the current generation – but I’ve never stopped learning about what catches my interest. I think this is a must for writers, or anyone. Going with what you have been dealt can be seriously limiting.

How much research time customarily goes into your projects?
Depends on the project. I’m currently on the second of a trilogy of supernatural thrillers set in university cities in the north of England. The first, Torc of Moonlight, was set in my home city of Hull and I set it up so that readers can use the novel as a route-map round the city. What can I say? I like to make things difficult for myself. Having marked this structure I have to follow it through with the next book which is based in York about an hour from where I live. Although it is a contemporary novel, a main thread deals with its Celtic and Roman origins as a fortress and colonia. So apart from internet research which is on-going, I have enough books and maps about the city to rewall the boundary to the front of my house, enough photos to fill a hard drive, have been on guided walks, attended lectures, visited museums, talked to people with the knowledge I’m after, and generally soaked up the atmosphere of the mediaeval city centre so it becomes a character in its own right. Doing this sort of thing opens up unexpected plot strands so I would never skimp it, but it’s not something that can be done over a couple of wet Sunday afternoons.

Who is your favorite literary character?
Shakespeare’s Falstaff – because he’s so flawed yet so rounded.

Who is your favorite character of your own creation?
This is a movable feast, depending on what I’m working on, but it is never the main character, always a subsidiary which takes on a momentum of its own. In my Mediaeval Hostage of the Heart it was a reeking Welsh wise-woman with penchant for natural poisons, and readers have mentioned her when they’ve contacted me. In Torc of Moonlight it was Murray, the main character’s rugby-playing mate and sounding board.

Tell us about your featured book.
“Reading A Writer’s Mind: Exploring Short Fiction - First Thought to Finished Story” does as its title states. It shows the detailed thinking behind the writing of ten of my short stories across a range of genres using different methods of delivery. I’ve had over 70 print published and these were chosen specifically as the examples. The Horror story comes with a warning; it’s not for the faint-hearted.

Why did you write that?
In a separate life I critique genre fiction for the Literary Consultancy in London. 95% of beginner writers make the same mistakes, the mistakes I made when I first started. Having an aspect pointed out as working or not within the context of a story is neither use nor ornament unless there is the explanation as to why. In the book I had space to explain why I made the decisions I did.

Is there anything special you would like your potential readers to know?
It’s going to be the first of a series of what-to-consider when writing fiction. The next will be about handling character, the centre around which all other elements revolve.

What activity or hobby, besides writing, do you find most enjoyable?
Reading – obvious, really.

What was your favorite childhood toy?
A red fire engine.

If you lost the ability to see every color but one, which one would it be?
Green – the tones are a kaleidoscope in themselves – and green is relaxing.

How do you treat people you’re not fond of?
As little as possible.

What is hiding in your closet as we speak?
You want to look? Go ahead, I’ll call the ambulance now for what falls on you.

What do you see as your greatest achievement?
Having what passes for a non-dysfunctional family.

What, to you, is absolutely wrong?
Stealing. I’ve worked hard for what I have. I expect others to do the same

What is the best advice you’ve ever received?
Show, don’t Tell – explained by a writer during a lecture many years ago. It’s the advice I always pass on.

You’ve decided to buy an exotic pet, what do you go for?
I’ve got one. I wear his ring. He takes a lot of looking after. Either that or I’m bad at training.

What do you classify as an “Adventure?”
Life. I think this goes with the in-built writer aspect of my psyche. Even a walk to the local shops can start a “Why if…” train of thought in motion.

If you could learn one new thing instantly, what would it be?
Photoshop!

Finish this sentence. “I sometimes find it hard to…focus.”
You know the saying, so much to do, so little time. I’m not a fast writer and fresh ideas queue, screaming to be heard. I need to write them down in case they drift off because they think I’m ignoring them and they can be seductive.

Our thanks to Linda for her time and engaging responses. Her book can be found just below, and when you give it a look, do check out her fiction as well.


Tuesday, April 3, 2012

Heather Ross - Highway 90

We are honored to have Heather Ross with us today to talk about her book Highway 90.

Where do you currently live?
Los Angeles. Right next to the airport so I can envy all of the people going someplace else.

Tell us a little bit about your life.
I'm obsessive compulsive about certain things during certain times of the month. Weird, I know. I'm a germaphobe when not in my own home, which means I don't mind eating something that hit the floor unless, of course, it's yoghurt or honey. I think I have adult ADHD, but not sure since my four-year-old keeps me hustling throughout the day. I home school my daughter, but won't list teacher on my resume, ever! (read what you will into that statement)

When did you first start writing?
Can't exactly put my finger on it partly because I'm old. I do remember a high school poetry project for my English class, which I took pretty seriously. I wasn't sure any of my poems were worthy until my brother read one I wrote about him and got teary eyed. Later I started keeping journals, which I'm glad I still have, you know, for reference and such.

What was your very first story about?
Oh geez, don't remember. Probably something about a dog, candy and roller skates.

Have you written anything that you were too afraid to let anyone read?
Yes. Still haven't let anyone read them and the outlook is grim.

Did you experience anything you've written yourself?
Yes. I'm in the details of my stories. Sometimes I write about things I WISH would happen to me.

Who are several of your greatest literary inspirations?
Robert Frost, Lois Lowry, Nora Roberts to name a few. All for different reasons. I like how writers are so varied in their craft. If they can make me feel something I envy them.

What kind of education have you received, and how has that affected your writing?
Well after graduating private high school I jumped around between three different community colleges before going on to university. I studied journalism for years at the CC's writing for the newspapers and magazines at each school. I liked it, but I was too...descriptive with my words so they all got butchered to the point it wasn't even my writing. I studied Public Relations at the university ('cuz I wanted to eat after I graduated), which I found interesting, however, boring. Come to find out, the degree isn't necessary to work in the field of PR and, for me, it was like the scarlet letter. Oh, to answer your question, I always felt pigeonholed with my writing, which is why I left it to pursue fiction writing.

How much research time customarily goes into your projects?
As much time as it takes to have the story makes sense on some level. Honestly, I'm not sure.

Who is your favorite literary character?
Winnie The Pooh. Does he even count? I just like how he's always so, shall we say, positive?

(Editor's Note: Winnie the Pooh always counts.)

Who is your favorite character of your own creation?
Probably Brooke from Highway 90.

If you were ever to write an autobiography, what would its title be?
"What The Hell Happened Here?"

Tell us about your featured book.
Highway 90 is a young adult novelette. It follows the MC through her thoughts and experiences, some good, others she'd like to forget. She's tired of life in a small town, but more than that, she's tired of the monotony, the cycle of "just surviving" and the lack of direction and meaning in her own life. After visiting a night club in Mexico with her best friend she's faced with a decision that will change her life, a change she's been seeking, but maybe didn't know it.

Why did you write that?
Memories of certain things in my life, places I've been, people I knew, came to my mind one night, so I just started typing. It helped to have friends around that I felt a real connection to while writing. One I consider my "muse" was particularly inspirational without knowing it. I don't believe the story would have been written if I were alone with my thoughts.

Is there anything special you would like your potential readers to know?
It's short and there are things you may not see coming. I've been told it's more for the female crowd too. (Probably just killed some sales with that tidbit.)

What's a negative trait about other people that you most notice, or that
bothers you the most?

People who talk incessantly, about themselves.

Do you ever notice it in yourself?
Now that you mention it...yeah I guess I do. That would explain all the "not everything's about you" comments I get.

If you were forced to give something you adore up for the rest of your
life, what would it be?

Raw honey. Sounds shallow, but I'm addicted.

Do you own any kind of art collection?
Not sure what comprises a collection, but I have five Lladro's (still in their boxes because that's how paranoid I am).

What is the hardest thing about growing up?
Taking it slow, living in the moment, NOT wishing I was a grown up every day. Did you mean one thing?

Was it worth it?
Growing up? Yes and no.

What is the biggest lie you've ever heard?
"Trust me, it won't hurt."

What is something you absolutely must have in your kitchen?
My Omega 8006 juicer.

What is pain to you?
God telling me I'm alive, appreciate it.

What is your dream house?
A huge warehouse with lots of glass block, a pool, skylights that open and a loft.

Where would you want this house located in our wide world?
On a mountain high above the sea with lots of trees.

You've been forced under various circumstances to choose a personal motto. What is it?
"Press On Regardless."

You're pitching a television pilot to a network. Describe it.
A curious monkey, big red dog and a bunch of puppets come together to open a day care. What? Too far fetched?

Have you ever received a present you really hated? If so, what was it?
Yes. A candle holder. One, single, solitary candle holder painted bright colors, lacking a mate and candles. (I know what you're thinking and no, it wasn't from one of my kids.)

What's the weirdest thing you've ever eaten? Would you have it again?
Snails. No, I'm done trying to impress people.

What's the first thing you would do if you could become invisible?
Jump up and down thankful that no one could see my "muffin top." (Google it.)

Do you ever have recurring dreams? What is your most common one about?
Yes. Spiders. I don't like them, maybe it's their long legs or quick movement, but they've always freaked me out. My dreams usually entail one of them crawling on me, near me or biting me. (I blame you if I dream about them tonight.)

What is the kindest thing that anyone has ever done for you?
Hugged me.

More information about Heather can be found on her website: HeatherRoss.net

Monday, April 2, 2012

Aliya Anjum - An Arranged Marriage

It is our pleasure to have Aliya Anjum with us today to speak about her short story An Arranged Marriage.


How old are you?
Age is a state of mind, and my age can -without exaggeration- range between 8 - 80

Where do you currently live?
I live in the city of Karachi, Pakistan. It's a city by the sea, with a population of 25 million and growing. Its a city of paradoxes, where you can buy Prada and Gucci and also buy handmade fans made from straw and where you can ride a traditional camel or a quad at the beach. It hosts an 8,000 year old Hindu temple where the legendary Ram of Hindu Holy scriptures rested. It's also a city that never sleeps, you can see cars on the road at 3 am. It hosts an international book festival every year and it is home to people of the most diverse ethnic and religious groups in Pakistan, including Muslims, Christians, Hindus and Zoroastrians. Every time I go outside the country, when I am on a return flight home and the pilot announces we have entered Karachi airspace, my heart does a somersault.

Tell us a little bit about your life.
I grew up in Karachi and attended university here, after which I joined a French Bank. I worked in Banking for over two years and then headed off to the US for graduate school. After returning, I worked for the government for another two years. Since quitting from that job, I took a one year long hiatus from work and then turned into a full time author last year.

When did you first start writing?
I used to write snippets about life, and poetry from the age of seven onwards. Unfortunately none of that survives today. I have been writing for newspapers since the age of 17. I first wrote YA short story fiction in 2008. It won me a Commendation Certificate from the National Book Foundation (NBF). I have won a first prize from NBF for small children's short stories. These stories are however, unpublished todate.

What was your very first story about?
My first story is titled "The Farmhouse." It's a YA short story with a 14-year-old male protagonist who gets himself into trouble after being dared to show bravado. It's a horror tale and I got chills narrating the scenes, which was fun.

Have you written anything that you were too afraid to let anyone read?
I once wrote a novella, which showcased the dark side of human nature. I later thought that it was a bad idea to write about evil, so I deleted it.

Did you experience anything you’ve written yourself?
Plenty! All fiction has an element of truth to it. Sometimes, the experiences are my own and sometimes they are of friends and family. At other times they are observations. Pure fantasy is not believable, when it comes to adult fiction or even YA.

Who are several of your greatest literary inspirations?
Most writers who have endured the test of time are inspirational for me. Fine writing captures human hopes, emotions and desires. It is thus timeless.

What kind of education have you received, and how has that affected your writing?
I hold an undergrad in Business from Karachi, and an MS from the US, in Textile Marketing. Education is however, a continuing process and I owe my education more to books than to degrees. I am a very avid reader of non-fiction. It helps hone my worldview and I am able to see things from an informed perspective, which I hope carries over in my fiction. I may add that I have also penned three non-fiction titles relating to history. One of which won an NBF Prize.

How much research time customarily goes into your projects?
I write fiction about subjects that I have read about, which cuts research time, since I may already be familiar with the subject. It does take a few weeks to research about my specific subject. However, when I am writing non-fiction, research time can stretch anywhere from six months to two years.

Who is your favorite literary character?
Scheherazade. She is the epitome of feminine mystique, combining intellect with charm and witticism.

Who is your favorite character of your own creation?
The hero of my latest novel, which is a work in progress.

If you were ever to write an autobiography, what would its title be?
A wonderful life!

Tell us about your featured book.
My featured short story "An Arranged Marriage" is inspired from true events. It is based on the lives of women Physicians of Pakistani origin in the US. It covers diverse themes such as immigration, assimilation, the Pakistani diaspora, immigrant subcultures and last but not the least, arranged marriages.

It would take readers through 11 years of my protagonists life, beginning in Pakistan and ending in the US.

Why did you write that?
I know a lot of Physicians. Most immigrated to the US, they include family and friends as well as friend's husbands. Through them, I met other Physicians and I noticed a common theme, amongst some women Physicians. Thus this story was born.

Is there anything special you would like your potential readers to know?
Yes. Despite the fact that this story showcases an unfortunate turnout of events following an arranged marriage, it does not mean that there can never be a happy ending with such arrangements. Arranged marriages run the whole gamut from being blind marriages to serving only as introductions. Most of them lead to stable, successful and relatively happy marriages. They are practiced in Asia and Africa, by more than half of the world's population.

Where is the one place you’ve traveled where you’ve felt most like you fit in?
Nowhere! I am too eastern for the west and too western for the east.

What activity or hobby, besides writing, do you find most enjoyable?
Swimming and Travel.

What was your favorite childhood toy?
Barbie! I may add that during the 1980's, they were smuggled in Pakistan. They were only available at one or two stores in the country, which happened to be close to my house. My father bought me one and I was over the moon. I later did the customary thing of buying accessories including Ken (yes he is an accessory). My father must have shared Art Buchwald's sentiments when the latter lamented in his column that Barbie was overly ambitious to keep seeking new professions, which always meant new purchases.

What is your most valued personal possession in life? Who gave it to you?
My books, which I have collected over the years. They have taught me so much.

How do you treat people you’re not fond of?
I try and be the bigger/better person and make an attempt to be nice.

What do you see as your greatest achievement?
Being able to sell books that people are reading in three continents :)

What is the best advice you’ve ever received?
My mother always says to me "we have to do the right thing, no matter what."

If you had to explain the concept of “love” to someone who’s never heard of it before, how would you?
Love comes in all forms. Love should not be reduced to a romantic notion, although romantic love is precious. To be loved by anyone, is a gift which we must learn to value.

What about “hate?”
Hate is a negative emotion, which does not exist in a healthy mind. Haters hate you because a) either you are a reflection of what they want to be, b) they are angry about life and act vindictive or c) they have been taught to hate.

You’ve decided to buy an exotic pet, what do you go for?
I love animals and I'd be happy to keep as many pets as possible. However, if by exotic pets you mean Iguanas and other reptiles, then I'd take a rain check.

What do you classify as an “Adventure?”
A trip to the Amazonian rain forests.

If you could learn one new thing instantly, what would it be?
Native level fluency in Italian.


Our special thanks to Aliya for taking the time to be with us. Please check out her book below.