Samantha Combs's Blog, page 15
August 14, 2012
The Kid Interview Series #10 - My daughter puts me under the lights!
When my 6 year old daughter heard that her brother did this interview, she got mad. Like, tantrum-y and mean-faced mad. She demanded to be given the same chance. If you read this blog with any regularity, you know that of my two children, in nature terms, one is the cool, island breeze, and one is a goddamn typhoon. Guess which one my dinky diva is?
You will also remember that I credit her with bringing me to the publishing industry, quite unbeknownst to myself. She wanted a fairy tale and I wrote her one. Funny thing is, I never intended it to be a novel, much less a series. She , of course, is the force behind Spellbound, my first published novel. Cut to two years later and six pubbies, with one in the wings being released by the publisher in 3 weeks. All due to the mini-me. So, it was only fitting she got the chance to do this interview. That, and it was worth peace in the house. *shrug*
THE KID’S INTERVIEW
Mallory Combs, age 6, interviews her author mom, SAMANTHA COMBS
Q. Can you name all your Mom’s books? Mallory: Um, Spellbound, Waterdancer….ah, Goosebump….um, ah… did you write down Waterdancer? Oh, the tattoo one where all the tattoos came alive. Next question?
Q. Which is your favorite and why? Mallory: Um, Spellbound. Mommy, what are they all about? Tell me and I’ll remember.
Q. When does your Mom write? Where in the house? Describe her writing area. Mallory: Maybe sometimes on Sundays and Saturdays. Sometimes in the living room and sometimes in the lounge in her room. Another writing area is kinda in her bedroom, it’s a big room.
Q. What are you doing when Mom is writing? Mallory: Watching tv downstairs or playing with my dolls in my dolly house.
Q. If Mom got rich and famous, what would you want her to do with the money? Mallory: Buy her a fancy house and get a limo!
Q. Do you read your Mom’s books?
Mallory: No. Because I can’t even read yet *giggles*
Q. Do you think you do better in school because Mom is a writer? Mallory: Yes. Why I am good in the school is because Mom makes me artistic and happy to be creative.
Q. Do your friends know what your Mom writes? Do you tell them? Mallory: No, they don’t know. I don’t tell them. I keep on forgetting to.
Q. Do you want to be a writer when you grow up? If not, what do you want to be? Mallory: No. I want to be a ballerina. And Momma, I hope you write a book about one named Isabella. *twirls*
Q. If you could dedicate a book to your Mom, what would you say? Mallory: To my artistic and beautiful Mommy. I love you so much! *runs outside*
Many of you who read this post already know Mallory, and you will know this is totally her! I write about my family in a limited manner, but they appear in the posts now and again. Each of them are THRILLED to see their name in print, and dedications on my books to them delight them endlessly. She will LOVE this post.And now, for my shameless plug: I often think the character in my next release, Waterdancer, is the embodiment of how my girl will be when she gets older. She is a natural waterbaby and loves baths, swimming, and even playing with the hose in the front driveway. The character's precociousness and blind self-assurance smacks of my baby girl. Check out the cover and look in the blog headers for the blurb. And thanks for stopping by!
You will also remember that I credit her with bringing me to the publishing industry, quite unbeknownst to myself. She wanted a fairy tale and I wrote her one. Funny thing is, I never intended it to be a novel, much less a series. She , of course, is the force behind Spellbound, my first published novel. Cut to two years later and six pubbies, with one in the wings being released by the publisher in 3 weeks. All due to the mini-me. So, it was only fitting she got the chance to do this interview. That, and it was worth peace in the house. *shrug*
THE KID’S INTERVIEW
Mallory Combs, age 6, interviews her author mom, SAMANTHA COMBS
Q. Can you name all your Mom’s books? Mallory: Um, Spellbound, Waterdancer….ah, Goosebump….um, ah… did you write down Waterdancer? Oh, the tattoo one where all the tattoos came alive. Next question?
Q. Which is your favorite and why? Mallory: Um, Spellbound. Mommy, what are they all about? Tell me and I’ll remember.
Q. When does your Mom write? Where in the house? Describe her writing area. Mallory: Maybe sometimes on Sundays and Saturdays. Sometimes in the living room and sometimes in the lounge in her room. Another writing area is kinda in her bedroom, it’s a big room.
Q. What are you doing when Mom is writing? Mallory: Watching tv downstairs or playing with my dolls in my dolly house.
Q. If Mom got rich and famous, what would you want her to do with the money? Mallory: Buy her a fancy house and get a limo!
Q. Do you read your Mom’s books?
Mallory: No. Because I can’t even read yet *giggles*Q. Do you think you do better in school because Mom is a writer? Mallory: Yes. Why I am good in the school is because Mom makes me artistic and happy to be creative.
Q. Do your friends know what your Mom writes? Do you tell them? Mallory: No, they don’t know. I don’t tell them. I keep on forgetting to.
Q. Do you want to be a writer when you grow up? If not, what do you want to be? Mallory: No. I want to be a ballerina. And Momma, I hope you write a book about one named Isabella. *twirls*
Q. If you could dedicate a book to your Mom, what would you say? Mallory: To my artistic and beautiful Mommy. I love you so much! *runs outside*
Many of you who read this post already know Mallory, and you will know this is totally her! I write about my family in a limited manner, but they appear in the posts now and again. Each of them are THRILLED to see their name in print, and dedications on my books to them delight them endlessly. She will LOVE this post.And now, for my shameless plug: I often think the character in my next release, Waterdancer, is the embodiment of how my girl will be when she gets older. She is a natural waterbaby and loves baths, swimming, and even playing with the hose in the front driveway. The character's precociousness and blind self-assurance smacks of my baby girl. Check out the cover and look in the blog headers for the blurb. And thanks for stopping by!
August 13, 2012
The Kid Interview Series #9 - Kelly Martin is interviewed by two of her babies!
Kelly is a new friend on facebook, and a new author with Astraea Press! I was introduced primarily through this blog post idea. And I am so excited how she handled her time in the hot seat! She got not one, but two of her kids to interview her and their answers reek of honesty and kid-ness. Her interviewing girls, two years apart at ages 5 and 7, have inspired me yet again. I wasn't going to have my daughter interview me, since I posted my son already, but....I did! Please enjoy my new friend, Kelly Martin as interviewed by her lovely girls, and let's get to know her, just like I am. Welcome to the blog, Kelly!
THE KID’S INTERVIEW
Katie, age 7, and Chloe, age 5, interview their author mom, Kelly Martin
Q. Can you name all your Mom’s books? Katie: no Chloe: I don't know
Q. Which is your favorite and why? Katie: I don’t know. Chloe: I don't know
Q. When does your Mom write? Where in the house? Describe her writing area. Katie: Every day. Right here (in the living room on the laptop) and sometimes in the computer room. Chloe: A lot. On the computer.
Q. What are you doing when Mom is writing? Katie: Watching Mama write. Chloe: I don't know
Q. If Mom got rich and famous, what would you want her to do with the money? Katie: Help everyone Chloe: I guess nothing
Q. Do you read your Mom’s books? Katie: No Chloe: Nope
Q. Do you think you do better in school because Mom is a writer? Katie: Yes Chloe: That's silly
Q. Do your friends know what your Mom writes? Do you tell them? Katie: No Chloe: No. I'll tell them when she makes some money
Q. Do you want to be a writer when you grow up? If not, what do you want to be? Katie: I just write whenever I want too. I want to be a fashion designer when I grow up (and maybe a writer). Chloe: No. I want to be a ballerina
Q. If you could dedicate a book to your Mom, what would you say? Katie: It would say, “I would save Jesus’ life for him.” Because that would be very good. Okay, so personally, my favorite answer is a toss-up between telling her friends when Mom makes money and being a butterfly for Halloween. I may have to steal the idea! If you would love to comment on the ridiculous cuteness of this post, please do so here. Or find Kelly and tell her yourself. And you heard her daughter...she is good and buy her book!
P.S. Chloe? I used pink on your name because its my favorite color too!~
http://www.facebook.com/Kelly.Lambert...
THE KID’S INTERVIEW
Katie, age 7, and Chloe, age 5, interview their author mom, Kelly Martin
Q. Can you name all your Mom’s books? Katie: no Chloe: I don't know
Q. Which is your favorite and why? Katie: I don’t know. Chloe: I don't know
Q. When does your Mom write? Where in the house? Describe her writing area. Katie: Every day. Right here (in the living room on the laptop) and sometimes in the computer room. Chloe: A lot. On the computer.
Q. What are you doing when Mom is writing? Katie: Watching Mama write. Chloe: I don't know
Q. If Mom got rich and famous, what would you want her to do with the money? Katie: Help everyone Chloe: I guess nothing
Q. Do you read your Mom’s books? Katie: No Chloe: Nope
Q. Do you think you do better in school because Mom is a writer? Katie: Yes Chloe: That's silly
Q. Do your friends know what your Mom writes? Do you tell them? Katie: No Chloe: No. I'll tell them when she makes some money
Q. Do you want to be a writer when you grow up? If not, what do you want to be? Katie: I just write whenever I want too. I want to be a fashion designer when I grow up (and maybe a writer). Chloe: No. I want to be a ballerina
Q. If you could dedicate a book to your Mom, what would you say? Katie: It would say, “I would save Jesus’ life for him.” Because that would be very good. Okay, so personally, my favorite answer is a toss-up between telling her friends when Mom makes money and being a butterfly for Halloween. I may have to steal the idea! If you would love to comment on the ridiculous cuteness of this post, please do so here. Or find Kelly and tell her yourself. And you heard her daughter...she is good and buy her book!
P.S. Chloe? I used pink on your name because its my favorite color too!~
http://www.facebook.com/Kelly.Lambert...
August 11, 2012
The Kid Interview Series #8 - J.F. Jenkins as interviewed by her 3-year old son
Jillian Jenkins and I became friends on facebook because we are both published with the same house: Astraea Press. I was intrigued first because she had the coolest email address (c'mon, Jilly, what exactly does babytoaster mean? LOL). Then I became intrigued because her book looked so cool. I was in love with the cover and the name. How can you go wrong with anything that included dragons? Communicating with her only made me like her more. A seasoned author of several fantasy books, I am wowed not only by her writing, but her world-building both knocks my socks off and worked like a tutorial for me when I started spinning my own series-yarn. And the cool factor increases because she got her THREE YEAR OLD to participate in this kid series. His answers are frank, adorable, and well, three year old fodder. Hope you enjoy them as much as I did!
And for more cool points, check out the end of the interview: She even made a video! Now, that's cool!
THE KID’S INTERVIEW
Jamie, age 3, interviews his author mom, J.F. Jenkins
Q. Can you name all your Mom’s books?Jamie: Yes. She has eight. Four dragons. Two aliens. Two nymphs.(The Dragons Saga: “Legend of the Oceina Dragon” “Legend of the Inero Dragon” “Legend of the Touched” “Legend of the Forbidden”. Battlefield: “Battlefield” “Control”. Vala: “Agendas” “Heritage”.)
Q. Which is your favorite and why? Jamie: I like the dragons. ROAR! They're like dinosaurs.
Q. When does your Mom write? Where in the house? Describe her writing area.Jamie: During the day time on the couch. She sits by me and we cuddle. At night she writes in the bed while we watch Olympics and The Goodnight Show or a movie.
Q. What are you doing when Mom is writing?Jamie: Playing with my cars, playing Olympics, and sometimes playing with my puppies on the Gameboy.
Q. If Mom got rich and famous, what would you want her to do with the money?Jamie: I want a scooter and the biggest TV ever!
Q. Do you read your Mom’s books?Jamie: I like to look at the letters. I can't read yet, but she reads to me sometimes while she works.
Q. Do you think you do better in school because Mom is a writer?Jamie: I'm just starting school, but yes!
Q. Do your friends know what your Mom writes? Do you tell them? Jamie: I don't tell them, but their mommies and daddies know.
Q. Do you want to be a writer when you grow up? If not, what do you want to be?Jamie: Yes, I like to write in my notebook and on the computer. I write about my cats Ushi and Tibu, and about my cars.
Q. If you could dedicate a book to your Mom, what would you say?Jamie: Thank you Mommy for helping me write, letting me use her computer, and loving me.
I included a cover of my favorite book of hers. If you have a favorite, or would just like to comment on her sweet little boy and this post, leave one here, or use any of these contact options. You know us authors, we just love to connect!
Contact InfoAddress
55122Screen Names
VIDEO!: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=B9GcX-fDvlc&feature=youtu.be
And for more cool points, check out the end of the interview: She even made a video! Now, that's cool!
THE KID’S INTERVIEW
Jamie, age 3, interviews his author mom, J.F. Jenkins
Q. Can you name all your Mom’s books?Jamie: Yes. She has eight. Four dragons. Two aliens. Two nymphs.(The Dragons Saga: “Legend of the Oceina Dragon” “Legend of the Inero Dragon” “Legend of the Touched” “Legend of the Forbidden”. Battlefield: “Battlefield” “Control”. Vala: “Agendas” “Heritage”.)
Q. Which is your favorite and why? Jamie: I like the dragons. ROAR! They're like dinosaurs.
Q. When does your Mom write? Where in the house? Describe her writing area.Jamie: During the day time on the couch. She sits by me and we cuddle. At night she writes in the bed while we watch Olympics and The Goodnight Show or a movie.
Q. What are you doing when Mom is writing?Jamie: Playing with my cars, playing Olympics, and sometimes playing with my puppies on the Gameboy.
Q. If Mom got rich and famous, what would you want her to do with the money?Jamie: I want a scooter and the biggest TV ever!
Q. Do you read your Mom’s books?Jamie: I like to look at the letters. I can't read yet, but she reads to me sometimes while she works.
Q. Do you think you do better in school because Mom is a writer?Jamie: I'm just starting school, but yes!
Q. Do your friends know what your Mom writes? Do you tell them? Jamie: I don't tell them, but their mommies and daddies know.
Q. Do you want to be a writer when you grow up? If not, what do you want to be?Jamie: Yes, I like to write in my notebook and on the computer. I write about my cats Ushi and Tibu, and about my cars.
Q. If you could dedicate a book to your Mom, what would you say?Jamie: Thank you Mommy for helping me write, letting me use her computer, and loving me.
I included a cover of my favorite book of hers. If you have a favorite, or would just like to comment on her sweet little boy and this post, leave one here, or use any of these contact options. You know us authors, we just love to connect!
Contact InfoAddress
55122Screen Names
VIDEO!: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=B9GcX-fDvlc&feature=youtu.be
August 10, 2012
The Kid Interview #7 - Ressa Empbra as interviewed by her daughter
When I received the answers for my facebook author friend Ressa Empbra, I emailed her right away. The reason was because I smiled all the way through it. Even though Ressa's daughter Monica is 26 years old, clearly an adult, the childlike love of her Mom just shined right through the words. It made me think of my own Mum. She constantly tells me "No matter how old you get, you'll always be my baby." So, thanks Ressa and Monica, for reminding us that we may be older, but we'll always be kids. Be sure and check the end of the interview for contact information for one, I'm sure, beaming Mom!
THE KID’S INTERVIEW
Monica Branham, age 26, interviews her author mom, Ressa Empbra
Q. Can you name all your Mom’s books?Monica: Yes. The Krascheam Chronicles; Guided, and The Dragon Dimension; Caught in the Dragon Cove.Q. Which is your favorite, and why?Monica: I think her dragon book is my favorite because it means so much to her, and because I love dragons. But I’m sure her other book would be as good, if not better. She’s always been really creative, and has an awesome imagination.Q. When does your Mom write? Where in the house? Describe her writing area.Monica: She sits in her big leather chair-ottoman, in the living room, with a coffee table near so everything she needs in within arm’s reach. And it’s always quiet and peaceful.Q. What are you doing when Mom is writing?Monica: I don’t live at home, but I’ve been there before while she’s been writing. Usually, I just hang out watching TV, or maybe I’ll read one of the books from her ‘real’ bookshelf. I try to answer any questions she feels I may be helpful with. Sometimes she just needs an opinion, or maybe a little help to round out an idea. Q. If Mom got rich and famous, what would you want her to do with the money?Monica: I’d love to see Mama and Dad out of debt, and be financially stable again. Whatever my parents need to do to make that happen, is my biggest wish for them. They deserve it.Q. Do you read your Mom’s books?Monica: I haven’t been able to because I don’t have an e-reader yet. I’ve also been busy working and doing other important life-things. When she’s finished publishing, I plan to read them for sure.Q. Do you think you do better in school because Mom is a writer?Monica: She wasn’t a writer yet when I was still in school, but if she had been, I’d say yes, and this is why: She was always helpful when I needed to write essays, or anything having to do with literature. And because she always made sure my brothers and I said and spelled everything just right, lol, it made all of us do better in school. We wanted to make her proud, and at least in that, I think we did. Q. Do your friends know what your Mom writes? Do you tell them?Monica: Yes, and yes. I am so proud of Mama and her writing, I tell anyone who will listen. Q. Do you want to be a writer when you grow up? If not, what do you want to be.Monica: I’m very self-conscious, so I doubt I could be a writer. But I’ve had dogs for pets all my life, and more than anything, one day I would love to be able to help animals. Q. If you could dedicate a book to your Mom, what would you say?Monica: I dedicate this to my amazing mother who this would not have been possible without. She has helped me through the darkest and hardest of times, and words cannot explain how much I appreciate and love my mama. Thank you. :-)
Contact InfoScreen Name@ressaempbra(Twitter)Websitehttp://essaempbra.wordpress.com/Emailressaempbra@facebook.comFacebookhttp://facebook.com/RessaEmpbra
THE KID’S INTERVIEW
Monica Branham, age 26, interviews her author mom, Ressa Empbra
Q. Can you name all your Mom’s books?Monica: Yes. The Krascheam Chronicles; Guided, and The Dragon Dimension; Caught in the Dragon Cove.Q. Which is your favorite, and why?Monica: I think her dragon book is my favorite because it means so much to her, and because I love dragons. But I’m sure her other book would be as good, if not better. She’s always been really creative, and has an awesome imagination.Q. When does your Mom write? Where in the house? Describe her writing area.Monica: She sits in her big leather chair-ottoman, in the living room, with a coffee table near so everything she needs in within arm’s reach. And it’s always quiet and peaceful.Q. What are you doing when Mom is writing?Monica: I don’t live at home, but I’ve been there before while she’s been writing. Usually, I just hang out watching TV, or maybe I’ll read one of the books from her ‘real’ bookshelf. I try to answer any questions she feels I may be helpful with. Sometimes she just needs an opinion, or maybe a little help to round out an idea. Q. If Mom got rich and famous, what would you want her to do with the money?Monica: I’d love to see Mama and Dad out of debt, and be financially stable again. Whatever my parents need to do to make that happen, is my biggest wish for them. They deserve it.Q. Do you read your Mom’s books?Monica: I haven’t been able to because I don’t have an e-reader yet. I’ve also been busy working and doing other important life-things. When she’s finished publishing, I plan to read them for sure.Q. Do you think you do better in school because Mom is a writer?Monica: She wasn’t a writer yet when I was still in school, but if she had been, I’d say yes, and this is why: She was always helpful when I needed to write essays, or anything having to do with literature. And because she always made sure my brothers and I said and spelled everything just right, lol, it made all of us do better in school. We wanted to make her proud, and at least in that, I think we did. Q. Do your friends know what your Mom writes? Do you tell them?Monica: Yes, and yes. I am so proud of Mama and her writing, I tell anyone who will listen. Q. Do you want to be a writer when you grow up? If not, what do you want to be.Monica: I’m very self-conscious, so I doubt I could be a writer. But I’ve had dogs for pets all my life, and more than anything, one day I would love to be able to help animals. Q. If you could dedicate a book to your Mom, what would you say?Monica: I dedicate this to my amazing mother who this would not have been possible without. She has helped me through the darkest and hardest of times, and words cannot explain how much I appreciate and love my mama. Thank you. :-)
Contact InfoScreen Name@ressaempbra(Twitter)Websitehttp://essaempbra.wordpress.com/Emailressaempbra@facebook.comFacebookhttp://facebook.com/RessaEmpbra
August 9, 2012
The Kid Interview Series #6 - Lindsay Downs is interviewed by her 4 year old collie (Yes, it's a dog. All kids aren't human you know)
Probably the first and now best friend I have made since coming onto Facebook has been my fellow Astraea Press author, Lindsay Downs. Lindsay's writing style is completely unlike ANYTHING I have seen or likely ever will see among my author friends. You see, Lindsay writes suspense and military thrillers where the hero is a dog. A collie, to be exact. Dakota and I have become great friends over the past year or so. He knows and enjoys my books and he tolerates his Mom's obsession for writing.
When he heard I was doing a series of kid interviews, he was right there, panting, if you will, to be a part of it. So, Lindsay asked the questions, and knowing Dakota like she does, translated the answers to me. Please enjoy the question-and-answer ramblings of my favorite collie's mind.
THE KID’S INTERVIEW
Dakota, age 4, interviews his author mom, Lindsay
Q. Can you name all your Mom’s books?Dakota: Yes. Emily Dahill, CID Part 1, A Dog Gone Christmas, A Body in the Attic, Emily Dahill, CID Part 2 and A Collie Rescue.Q. Which is your favorite and why?Dakota: It’s really hard to say which is my favorite as each book has some great scenes in them. Thinking about it though I’d really have to say A Collie Rescue is far and above the best. This book features a homeless vet and the heroine and her struggle to live day to day.Q. When does your Mom write? Where in the house? Describe her writing area.Dakota: She writes in both the afternoon and evening. She’s got a desk near the living room so she can watch TV while writing. Her writing area, a total mess. Papers all over the desk and behind her is a white board where she writes notes about one or more of her WIP’s.Q. What are you doing when Mom is writing?Dakota: I usually sleep.Q. If Mom got rich and famous, what would you want her to do with the money?Dakota: Let’s wait and see when that happens because what I’d want now I might not want when she is.Q. Do you read your Mom’s books?Dakota: I don’t know how to readQ. Do you think you do better in school because Mom is a writer?Dakota: I don’t go to schoolQ. Do your friends know what your Mom writes? Do you tell them?Dakota: Well my half-bro, Sparkie the cat, does but that’s about it.Q. Do you want to be a writer when you grow up? If not, what do you want to be.Dakota: No, I’m happy being a collie thank you.Q . If you could dedicate a book to your Mom, what would you say?Dakota: To the world’s best Mom.
Lindsay has a new release coming up for the Christmas season, this recent cover heralding a new Emily Dahill book, and is busy working on two other manuscripts starring the irrepressible Dakota. Make contact and find out what's coming soon!
Contact InfoScreen Nameldowns2966(Twitter)Websitehttp:// murdersandmysteries.wordpress.comhttp://ajessicasalesnovel.wordpress.comEmail: lindsay@lindsaydowns.com
ldowns2966@gmail.com
When he heard I was doing a series of kid interviews, he was right there, panting, if you will, to be a part of it. So, Lindsay asked the questions, and knowing Dakota like she does, translated the answers to me. Please enjoy the question-and-answer ramblings of my favorite collie's mind.
THE KID’S INTERVIEW
Dakota, age 4, interviews his author mom, Lindsay
Q. Can you name all your Mom’s books?Dakota: Yes. Emily Dahill, CID Part 1, A Dog Gone Christmas, A Body in the Attic, Emily Dahill, CID Part 2 and A Collie Rescue.Q. Which is your favorite and why?Dakota: It’s really hard to say which is my favorite as each book has some great scenes in them. Thinking about it though I’d really have to say A Collie Rescue is far and above the best. This book features a homeless vet and the heroine and her struggle to live day to day.Q. When does your Mom write? Where in the house? Describe her writing area.Dakota: She writes in both the afternoon and evening. She’s got a desk near the living room so she can watch TV while writing. Her writing area, a total mess. Papers all over the desk and behind her is a white board where she writes notes about one or more of her WIP’s.Q. What are you doing when Mom is writing?Dakota: I usually sleep.Q. If Mom got rich and famous, what would you want her to do with the money?Dakota: Let’s wait and see when that happens because what I’d want now I might not want when she is.Q. Do you read your Mom’s books?Dakota: I don’t know how to readQ. Do you think you do better in school because Mom is a writer?Dakota: I don’t go to schoolQ. Do your friends know what your Mom writes? Do you tell them?Dakota: Well my half-bro, Sparkie the cat, does but that’s about it.Q. Do you want to be a writer when you grow up? If not, what do you want to be.Dakota: No, I’m happy being a collie thank you.Q . If you could dedicate a book to your Mom, what would you say?Dakota: To the world’s best Mom.
Lindsay has a new release coming up for the Christmas season, this recent cover heralding a new Emily Dahill book, and is busy working on two other manuscripts starring the irrepressible Dakota. Make contact and find out what's coming soon!
Contact InfoScreen Nameldowns2966(Twitter)Websitehttp:// murdersandmysteries.wordpress.comhttp://ajessicasalesnovel.wordpress.comEmail: lindsay@lindsaydowns.com
ldowns2966@gmail.com
August 8, 2012
The Kid Interview Series #5 - Author Shelly Crane as interviewed by her son
Shelly Crane does something I can only dream of doing right now: she is a full-time author. And her literary portfolio certainly proves it. The best-selling author of engaging and enthralling series such as the Significance series, the Collide series, the Devour series, Stealing Grace series, Shelly has a large presence and fan base on all the social networks. I was thrilled when she decided to give our little blog series a whirl. A devoted wife and mother of two active boys, she lassoed one long enough to get him to participate in the interview. And he had fun with it! May I introduce Shelly and her son, Jonas!
THE KID’S INTERVIEW
Jonas, age 9 interviews his author mom, Shelly Crane
Q. Can you name all your Mom’s books? Jonas: Significance, Collide, Devour, Defiance, Stealing Grace…Q. Which is your favorite and why? Jonas: I'm gonna have to say Devour, I think. I don't know, I've never read them.Q. When does your Mom write? Where in the house? Describe her writing area. Jonas: On the couch, almost half of the day sometimes. She doesn't have her office in the new house yet.Q. What are you doing when Mom is writing? Jonas: Video games, playing with Dad and brother, tv, board games, outside sometimes.Q. If Mom got rich and famous, what would you want her to do with the money? Jonas: Sell\buy video games. And uh, buy a mansion. And some charities.Q. Do you read your Mom’s books? Jonas: NoQ. Do you think you do better in school because Mom is a writer? Jonas: Yes. Because I would not scribble? (Insert crescendo for effect)Q. Do your friends know what your Mom writes? Do you tell them? Jonas: Yes and yes. Sometimes.Q. Do you want to be a writer when you grow up? If not, what do you want to be. Jonas: Um, I don't know. A cop. (7 year old throws in "model") Q. If you could dedicate a book to your Mom, what would you say Jonas: *Runs away with red cheeks*
Shelly would love to hear from you. Her next book is coming in December 2012. Independence, the fourth and final installment in the Significance series is being hotly awaited by the supernatural romance-loving masses.Contact Shelly either here on the blog, or on one of her other social addresses: Websites:http://twitter.com/#!/AuthShellyCranehttp://shellycrane.blogspot.com/http://www.facebook.com/shellycranefanpagehttp://www.amazon.com/s/ref=nb_sb_noss?u...http://www.goodreads.com/search?query=sh...Thanks Jonas and Shelly, for hanging out on the blog!
THE KID’S INTERVIEW
Jonas, age 9 interviews his author mom, Shelly Crane
Q. Can you name all your Mom’s books? Jonas: Significance, Collide, Devour, Defiance, Stealing Grace…Q. Which is your favorite and why? Jonas: I'm gonna have to say Devour, I think. I don't know, I've never read them.Q. When does your Mom write? Where in the house? Describe her writing area. Jonas: On the couch, almost half of the day sometimes. She doesn't have her office in the new house yet.Q. What are you doing when Mom is writing? Jonas: Video games, playing with Dad and brother, tv, board games, outside sometimes.Q. If Mom got rich and famous, what would you want her to do with the money? Jonas: Sell\buy video games. And uh, buy a mansion. And some charities.Q. Do you read your Mom’s books? Jonas: NoQ. Do you think you do better in school because Mom is a writer? Jonas: Yes. Because I would not scribble? (Insert crescendo for effect)Q. Do your friends know what your Mom writes? Do you tell them? Jonas: Yes and yes. Sometimes.Q. Do you want to be a writer when you grow up? If not, what do you want to be. Jonas: Um, I don't know. A cop. (7 year old throws in "model") Q. If you could dedicate a book to your Mom, what would you say Jonas: *Runs away with red cheeks*
Shelly would love to hear from you. Her next book is coming in December 2012. Independence, the fourth and final installment in the Significance series is being hotly awaited by the supernatural romance-loving masses.Contact Shelly either here on the blog, or on one of her other social addresses: Websites:http://twitter.com/#!/AuthShellyCranehttp://shellycrane.blogspot.com/http://www.facebook.com/shellycranefanpagehttp://www.amazon.com/s/ref=nb_sb_noss?u...http://www.goodreads.com/search?query=sh...Thanks Jonas and Shelly, for hanging out on the blog!
August 7, 2012
The Kid interview Series - #4 - Stefan Ellery is interviewed by his son Joshua
My author friend Stefan Ellery is a friend who has been featured on this blog before. Way back then, he was an aspiring author. Now, he is a published one! With another short story, Unfiltered, and as a featured author in the launch anthology of newcomer publishing house Crushing Hearts and Black Butterfly Publishing, The Dark Light series, I know we can expect even more from him in the coming future. We are all excited for that, including his son, Joshua. But, just like a young teen boy, his casual answers are de rigeur for his age. Stefan, is this nonchalance what I have to look forward from my 9-year old? *laughs nervously* Now, enjoy seeing Stefan through his son's eyes.
THE KID'S INTERVIEW
Joshua Ellery, age 12, interviews his author Dad, Stefan Ellery
Q. Can you name all your Dad’s books? Joshua: I can name some of them. Kalle and Pelle, The Millers Daughter
Q. Which is your favorite and why? Joshua:. All of them. Some are funny. Q. When does your Dad write? Where in the house? Describe his writing area. Joshua: Hard to tell. My dad writes in bed with a laptop on his bed.
Q. What are you doing when Dad is writing? Joshua: Playing video games
Q. If Dad got rich and famous, what would you want him to do with the money? Joshua: Buy me an Alienware computer and a $100.00 visa gift card
Q. Do you read your Dad’s books? Joshua: Yes
Q. Do you think you do better in school because Dad is a writer? Joshua: No
Q. Do your friends know what your Dad writes? Do you tell them? Joshua: Yes and yes
Q. Do you want to be a writer when you grow up? If not, what do you want to be. Joshua: Yes I want to be a writer and game designer.
Q. If you could dedicate a book to your Dad, what would you say? Joshua: I dedicate this book to my dad because he gave me support.
Stefan has several works in progress and is a regular at TextNovel. His latest WIP can be found here: http://www.textnovel.com/story/Hidden-in-the-Light/8832/.Thanks Stefan and Joshua!
THE KID'S INTERVIEW
Joshua Ellery, age 12, interviews his author Dad, Stefan Ellery
Q. Can you name all your Dad’s books? Joshua: I can name some of them. Kalle and Pelle, The Millers Daughter
Q. Which is your favorite and why? Joshua:. All of them. Some are funny. Q. When does your Dad write? Where in the house? Describe his writing area. Joshua: Hard to tell. My dad writes in bed with a laptop on his bed.
Q. What are you doing when Dad is writing? Joshua: Playing video games
Q. If Dad got rich and famous, what would you want him to do with the money? Joshua: Buy me an Alienware computer and a $100.00 visa gift card
Q. Do you read your Dad’s books? Joshua: Yes
Q. Do you think you do better in school because Dad is a writer? Joshua: No
Q. Do your friends know what your Dad writes? Do you tell them? Joshua: Yes and yes
Q. Do you want to be a writer when you grow up? If not, what do you want to be. Joshua: Yes I want to be a writer and game designer.
Q. If you could dedicate a book to your Dad, what would you say? Joshua: I dedicate this book to my dad because he gave me support.
Stefan has several works in progress and is a regular at TextNovel. His latest WIP can be found here: http://www.textnovel.com/story/Hidden-in-the-Light/8832/.Thanks Stefan and Joshua!
August 6, 2012
The Kid Interview Series - #3 - Iris Blobel, as interviewed by her daughter, Carleigh
Welcome to the third installment in the series. I'm happy to introduce you to my awesome Aussie friend, Iris Blobel. She is a fellow author at my sweet publisher, Astraea Press and writes heartfelt and touching romances. We are all looking forward to her upcoming release, Innocent Tears, coming out in late 2012. Her daughter, Carleigh, took on the interview.
THE KID’S INTERVIEW
Carleigh Blobel, age 11, interviews her author mom, Iris Blobel
1. Can you name all your Mom’s books? A. Sweet Dreams Miss England & Journey to her Dreams 2. Which is your favorite and why? A. Sweet Dreams Miss England because it was mums first book and it was really special to me . 3. When does your Mom write? Where in the house? Describe her writing area. A. Mum writes when ever she can especially at night when she is on her laptop. She usually writes in the living room or sometimes in the kitchen area, her bedroom or outside, if it nice weather. 4. What are you doing when Mom is writing? A. Most of the time i would be playing with my sister (Tara) or watching TV at night 5. If Mom got rich and famous, what would you want her to do with the money? A. I would like you use some of my money towards a house and starting a family or extending my bedroom 6. Do you read your Mom’s books? A. I read a little but because they're romance I'm not really interested 7. Do you think you do better in school because Mom is a writer? A. No not really . 8. Do your friends know what your Mom writes? Do you tell them? A. My friends know a lot about my Mums books because I like to brag about it 9. Do you want to be a writer when you grow up? If not, what do you want to be. A. I would like to be a writer and follow in my Mums footsteps, but I wouldn't do romance i would probably do kids books. I would also like to be a teacher or a police officer 10. If you could dedicate a book to your Mom, what would you say? A. To my Mum for inspiring me to write to write my own books
Iris BlobelAuthor "Sweet Dreams, Miss England" , "Journey to her Dreams” (by Astraea Press)and "Innocent Tears" coming out late 2012Presenter @ www.voicefm.com.au
THE KID’S INTERVIEW
Carleigh Blobel, age 11, interviews her author mom, Iris Blobel
1. Can you name all your Mom’s books? A. Sweet Dreams Miss England & Journey to her Dreams 2. Which is your favorite and why? A. Sweet Dreams Miss England because it was mums first book and it was really special to me . 3. When does your Mom write? Where in the house? Describe her writing area. A. Mum writes when ever she can especially at night when she is on her laptop. She usually writes in the living room or sometimes in the kitchen area, her bedroom or outside, if it nice weather. 4. What are you doing when Mom is writing? A. Most of the time i would be playing with my sister (Tara) or watching TV at night 5. If Mom got rich and famous, what would you want her to do with the money? A. I would like you use some of my money towards a house and starting a family or extending my bedroom 6. Do you read your Mom’s books? A. I read a little but because they're romance I'm not really interested 7. Do you think you do better in school because Mom is a writer? A. No not really . 8. Do your friends know what your Mom writes? Do you tell them? A. My friends know a lot about my Mums books because I like to brag about it 9. Do you want to be a writer when you grow up? If not, what do you want to be. A. I would like to be a writer and follow in my Mums footsteps, but I wouldn't do romance i would probably do kids books. I would also like to be a teacher or a police officer 10. If you could dedicate a book to your Mom, what would you say? A. To my Mum for inspiring me to write to write my own books
Iris BlobelAuthor "Sweet Dreams, Miss England" , "Journey to her Dreams” (by Astraea Press)and "Innocent Tears" coming out late 2012Presenter @ www.voicefm.com.au
August 5, 2012
The Kid Interview Series - #2 - Kathy Bennett is interviewed by her daughter...AND granddaughter
I have interviewed Kathy Bennett on this blog before. She is the only writer I know who used to be a police officer. Which is not only cool, but handy too, as she writes cop thrillers. I was jazzed when she took this interview and tweaked it to fit her personal vision. SO, today, you get two for the price of one. Kathy is interviewed by both her daughter and granddaughter. Mikayla, I think you would make a great police officer; your answers are totally "just the facts, Ma'am"! And Jaimie, with a cop for a mom, I probably would have been valedictorian!
THE KID’S INTERVIEWJaimie Cox, age 34 AND Mikayla Mitchell, age 14, interview their author mom and Grandma, Kathy Bennett
1. Can you name all your Mom’s books? Jaimie: Yes I can. They are A Dozen Deadly Roses and A Deadly Blessing. Mikayla: Yes. A Dozen Deadly Roses and A Deadly Blessing2. Which is your favorite and why? Jaimie: My favorite is A Deadly Blessing. It was more “on the edge of my seat” reading for me. Mikayla: My grandma won’t let me read them yet, so I don’t have a favorite3. When does your Mom write? Where in the house? Describe her writing area. Jaimie: Mom writes whenever she can get a spare moment or ten. She writes in her office or sometimes she flees to her favorite “secret” writing spot. The best way to describe mom’s office is “controlled chaos”, and as for her secret writing spot, I can’t describe it because then everyone will know where she runs away to, and it wouldn’t be a secret anymore. Mikayla: Grandma writes when she has free time in her office, which looks clean, but not organized.4. What are you doing when Mom is writing? Jaimie: Working or taking care of my family. Mikayla: Going on Facebook.
5. If Mom got rich and famous, what would you want her to do with the money? Jaimie: I would want her to be happy with it. If she wanted to invest, save or spend it, then it’s hers to do what she wants with it. Mikayla: Save it so she and Grandpa can get the house they’ve always wanted. 6. Do you read your Mom’s books? Jaimie: Absolutely. In fact, I’m one of her beta readers – so I get to read them before anyone else. Mikayla: Not yet, but I will when I’m old enough 7. Do you think you do better in school because Mom is a writer? .Jaimie: Mom wasn’t a writer when I was in school, she was still working on the police force at that time. So, with that in mind, I did behave better in school and out of school. Mikayla: No8. Do your friends know what your Mom writes? Do you tell them? Jaimie: Of course! Even my father in-law reads my mom’s books.Mikayla: No. 9. Do you want to be a writer when you grow up? If not, what do you want to be. Jaimie: When I was younger, I always enjoyed writing, but felt I was never good at it. Right now, I’m an accounting manager for a distributing company. I hope that someday I’ll be able to start my own bookkeeping business and work from home. Mikayla: No, I don’t want to be a writer, but I still would like to follow in my grandma’s footsteps by becoming a police officer.10. If you could dedicate a book to your Mom, what would you say? Jaimie: To my mother and best friend Kathy – may your days always be filled with love, laughter and craziness. I love you. Mikayla: To my Grandma Bennett, I love you.
Kathy's latest police procedural is A Deadly Blessing. Check out those Amazon ranks!
Amazon Best Sellers Rank: #51 Paid in Kindle Store (See Top 100 Paid in Kindle Store)#1 in Kindle Store > Kindle eBooks > Fiction > Genre Fiction > Mystery & Thrillers >
Police Procedurals
#1 in Books > Mystery, Thriller & Suspense >
Police Procedurals
#4 in Books > Mystery, Thriller & Suspense > Mystery >
Women Sleuths
THE KID’S INTERVIEWJaimie Cox, age 34 AND Mikayla Mitchell, age 14, interview their author mom and Grandma, Kathy Bennett
1. Can you name all your Mom’s books? Jaimie: Yes I can. They are A Dozen Deadly Roses and A Deadly Blessing. Mikayla: Yes. A Dozen Deadly Roses and A Deadly Blessing2. Which is your favorite and why? Jaimie: My favorite is A Deadly Blessing. It was more “on the edge of my seat” reading for me. Mikayla: My grandma won’t let me read them yet, so I don’t have a favorite3. When does your Mom write? Where in the house? Describe her writing area. Jaimie: Mom writes whenever she can get a spare moment or ten. She writes in her office or sometimes she flees to her favorite “secret” writing spot. The best way to describe mom’s office is “controlled chaos”, and as for her secret writing spot, I can’t describe it because then everyone will know where she runs away to, and it wouldn’t be a secret anymore. Mikayla: Grandma writes when she has free time in her office, which looks clean, but not organized.4. What are you doing when Mom is writing? Jaimie: Working or taking care of my family. Mikayla: Going on Facebook.
5. If Mom got rich and famous, what would you want her to do with the money? Jaimie: I would want her to be happy with it. If she wanted to invest, save or spend it, then it’s hers to do what she wants with it. Mikayla: Save it so she and Grandpa can get the house they’ve always wanted. 6. Do you read your Mom’s books? Jaimie: Absolutely. In fact, I’m one of her beta readers – so I get to read them before anyone else. Mikayla: Not yet, but I will when I’m old enough 7. Do you think you do better in school because Mom is a writer? .Jaimie: Mom wasn’t a writer when I was in school, she was still working on the police force at that time. So, with that in mind, I did behave better in school and out of school. Mikayla: No8. Do your friends know what your Mom writes? Do you tell them? Jaimie: Of course! Even my father in-law reads my mom’s books.Mikayla: No. 9. Do you want to be a writer when you grow up? If not, what do you want to be. Jaimie: When I was younger, I always enjoyed writing, but felt I was never good at it. Right now, I’m an accounting manager for a distributing company. I hope that someday I’ll be able to start my own bookkeeping business and work from home. Mikayla: No, I don’t want to be a writer, but I still would like to follow in my grandma’s footsteps by becoming a police officer.10. If you could dedicate a book to your Mom, what would you say? Jaimie: To my mother and best friend Kathy – may your days always be filled with love, laughter and craziness. I love you. Mikayla: To my Grandma Bennett, I love you.
Kathy's latest police procedural is A Deadly Blessing. Check out those Amazon ranks!
Amazon Best Sellers Rank: #51 Paid in Kindle Store (See Top 100 Paid in Kindle Store)#1 in Kindle Store > Kindle eBooks > Fiction > Genre Fiction > Mystery & Thrillers >
Police Procedurals
#1 in Books > Mystery, Thriller & Suspense >
Police Procedurals
#4 in Books > Mystery, Thriller & Suspense > Mystery >
Women Sleuths
August 4, 2012
The Kid Interview Series - #1 - I am interviewed by my son
As part of a new ongoing series, I have asked some of my facebook author-friends to ask their children to interview them. Our kids and families are such a huge part of our lives, I wanted to give them an opportunity to tell us all how they really feel about our obsessive desire to put words to life.
I will start the series by interviewing one of my own. Enjoy!
THE KID’S INTERVIEWWilliam Combs, age 9, interviews his author mom, SAMANTHA COMBS
Q. Can you name all your Mom’s books? A. Yes! Spellbound, Everspell, Detention Demon, Waterdancer, um, even the short ones too? I’ll think about it.Q. Which is your favorite and why? A. My favorite is The Detention Demon because I like all of the details that it gives me to give a good picture in my mind of what the demon looks like.Q. When does your Mom write? Where in the house? Describe her writing area. A. Mostly at night. She writes in the living room and sometimes in her room. Well, for the living room, she has a couch with an ottoman that she puts the computer on. And she also lays her feet on that, too. And also she uses pillows to rest her arm on. We’re not allowed to put things on the ottoman.Q. What are you doing when Mom is writing? A. I’m mostly quiet and I watch tv or play my DS.Q. If Mom got rich and famous, what would you want her to do with the money? A. TOYS!
Q. Do you read your Mom’s books? A. Yes. She reads them to me and I read them on her kindle. But only the scary ones. And the good parts of the others.Q. Do you think you do better in school because Mom is a writer? A. Yes. Because she has a great vocabulary and so do I. And whenever I need a word to be described, she is always there for that.Q. Do your friends know what your Mom writes? Do you tell them? A. Not really, no. I tell them about her working for the cab company. But, I do tell my teachers Mommy writes.Q. Do you want to be a writer when you grow up? If not, what do you want to be? A. I don’t want to be a writer, because it’s just exhausting for your hands. I want to be either a police officer or a firefighter.Q. If you could dedicate a book to your Mom, what would you say? A. This book is for my Mom, my wonderful, kind, happy, heartful mother. I love you, Mom.
Shameless self-promotion: Waterdancer, my 7th book, and my 5th YA paranormal, is out Sept 7th with Musa Publishing. Hope you check it out here on the blog.
