AUTHOR INTERVIEW: Beth Shriver

Please help me welcome author Beth Shriver to WordVessel. Here's her bio:



Beth Shriver received a Bachelors Degree in Social Work from the University of Nebraska.  She worked as a case worker for Boulder County Department of Social Services before starting a family.  Beth freelanced for local papers in her area and wrote columns and devotionals for magazines.  Beth has been married for over 20 years and has two children.  She currently lives in Texas after a career move from Colorado.  She writes in a variety of genres in both fiction and non-fiction.



Welcome, Beth. Tell us about your latest book.

My latest release is Peace for Parents of Teens, is a devotional for parents of teenagers.



What accomplishment(s) are you most proud of, writing-related or not?

I will be appearing on The Balancing Act television show and on The Morning Show in Florida. I never thought I'd be on a TV show but I believe God really wants this devotional out there for parents to know it's available to them.



Favorite scripture:

And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus. Philippians 4:7



Do you have any advice on finding an agent?

I am very blessed to have a great agent, editor and public relations rep to work with. It's all word of mouth and finding who you work well with.



What are some ways that readers of your books can help you as an author?

Again, word of mouth. If you like a story tell others about the book and why you liked it.



What would you like readers to take away from your book?

The devotional I wrote is meant to help guide parents through the teen years. Whether your teen is struggling of you just want to strengthen the bond you have with them this is a great way to get those conversations started.



Why did you choose to write this book?

We had a tough transition when we moved from Denver to Dallas. My daughter didn't transition well and began to act out. When I couldn't find a devotional that dealt with the specific issues we were dealing so I started writing my own.



What did you learn while writing this book?

I'm still learning from this book. What started out to be a way for me to call on God for peace and wisdom ended up being an entire book of thoughts, ideas and comfort for me and now for others as well.



What one thing about writing do you wish other non-writers would understand?

People who are not in the industry have no idea how it works. I had to learn when I first started and continue to as my career takes twists and turns. I guess the thing I wish people most understood is how hard it is to not only write a book but to enter the market and what's involved. It's a tough industry, more than you realize unless you've experienced it first hand.



What is the toughest test you've faced as a writer?

Public speaking and giving talks are both things I never felt comfortable doing but as a friend told me, it's not about me, it's about getting the word out to parents who can find peace froom my devotional. When I put the me back into anything I do involving my writing my nerves start up and I remember it's about Him, not me and I settle back into doing what I need to do.



What are three things you wish you'd known before you reached where you are now?

-How difficult it really is to break into the writing industry and what you have to do to get a book published

-Not to give up, no matter what people say, it's a very subjective business

-To find professionals in the industry who believe in you



How do you reach new readers?

I've learned that Meet and Greets work better than book signings, and book sellers at your local book store can be your best friends. Also, that you have to spend more time at events where the readers are rather than at the conferences where the writers are. Attending your neighborhood book clubs creates a loyal following, and to say yes to your church writing class when they ask you to talk with them about their aspirations to become writers.



How can readers get in contact with you?

www.bethshriverwriter.com









Beth, thanks so much for the opportunity to learn more about you and your book. I pray that God will continue to bless your writing as you minister to others for Him.