F A Q
Are funny writers less serious than not-funny writers?
The short answer is no. Humor is a pathway into the dark places we avoid. It lights the way. Laughter is catharsis.
Do your books have a political slant?
We are all born into a world view and then learn to think for ourselves. My nomadic upbringing brought me in contact with diverse people, lifestyles, and cultural backgrounds. Not to mention monkeys! There are many ways to be, and everyone has their own lens on the world.
In Argentina, eleven-year-old me went to a fancy catered dance party with a DJ. A week later, I went to another dance party with a radio, a bottle of soda, and a bag of chips. Both were excellent in their own ways.
I believe in love over hate. My books are about finding yourself in a crazy world.
Given the low pay, long hours, and difficulty getting published, should I bother becoming a writer?
… overcrowding in the brain
… a way to talk to yourself without looking like a nut
… because you like it
… just because.
Can you give me some advice?
Always wear a hat and sunscreen outside. If I’d done that, I would look as young as I feel.
Oh, you mean writing advice!
Write one word at a time. Butt in chair. Persistence rules.
Write what lights you on fire.
Poco a poco el hormigo come el elephant. Translation: Bit by bit the ant eats the elephant.
Only submit your best work.
Favorite websites for writers who want to be traditionally published:
Start with a free critique of your query letter and or first pages from Evil Editor. According to Evil Editors FAQ, you must be willing to be humiliated (or praised) in a public forum. I did this before getting published. If that sounds too scary, check out the archives.
http://evileditor.blogspot.com
If you’re writing for the under 18 set, Society of Children’s Book Writers & Illustrators is awesome.
Go to Publisher’s Weekly’s Children’s Bookshelf for the latest news on books being published now.
https://www.publishersweekly.com/pw/by-topic/childrens/index.html
Use Publisher’s Marketplace to learn where to submit.
https://www.publishersmarketplace.com
Query Letter Help can be found here: