Ask the Author: Stuart Simms
Answered Questions (6)
Stuart Simms
Avatar: The Last Airbender has given rise to comics and a book series so I'm counting it. I'd probably find myself living among the Air Nomads (in the Western Air Temple if I had a choice). I don't even need to be an Airbender, I'd just like a quiet life.
Stuart Simms
Sometimes inspiration comes when my mind is fully occupied with something else - books, TV, films, games - and sometimes inspiration comes when I have nothing more to occupy me than walking through the woods.
Stuart Simms
Don't focus too much on all the distractions that come with writing - Who will publish this? Is my signature pretty enough for book signings? How will I publicise my writing? - and just enjoy the process of writing. Once you have something you're proud of and willing to share, that's when you can worry about the rest.
Stuart Simms
I'm a big fan of Avatar: The Last Airbender/The Legend of Korra and the way that mental health is often at the forefront of storytelling throughout both series. Initially the series inspired 'Earth', a story about people able to use elemental powers that changed throughout their life, and a warlord that used them as child soldiers. At the time I wrote the story I felt that I had spent too long being told what to do with my life while I was rediscovering my creative passions, and found it therapeutic to write a story about someone recovering their own identity.
Stuart Simms
Right now I'm working on my first full-length novel which will feature a character from one of my short stories.
Stuart Simms
If I'm struggling with a writing project, I find it helpful to focus on a different, shorter-term creative project. Something like planning a Dungeons and Dragons session, painting Warhammer or learning character illustration. Find a small project that lets you be creative without letting yourself get frustrated with your writing.
About Goodreads Q&A
Ask and answer questions about books!
You can pose questions to the Goodreads community with Reader Q&A, or ask your favorite author a question with Ask the Author.
See Featured Authors Answering Questions
Learn more