SOUND BYTES
What are some of your hobbies?
I love to travel, draw, listen to live music, take scenic walks, sometimes involving a stop at Starbucks, and swim in the ocean.
What's your favorite place to travel to?
I have a special place in my heart for Cape Town, South Africa because that is where my family lived for over three generations after fleeing Lithuania in the early 1900's. One of my other favorite countries to visit is Haiti because that's where my husband is from and where my in-laws live. Both countries are known for their beautiful mountains, beaches, art, music and food. (See my photo gallery for some photos of both countries.)
What are some of your hobbies in your next life?
Okay, technically nobody asked me this, but I'm ready if somebody does! Playing guitar in a rock band, skateboarding, and surfing are all things I'd love to try.
Where do you get your ideas from?
My ideas come from everywhere. I can get an idea from reading an odd news story, watching TV, reading, listening to music and from my past experiences. The most important thing I do is listen to the world around me.
Do you have any advice for new writers?
Read and then read some more. Don’t be afraid to brain dump (write whatever is on your mind) and most importantly join a critique group of supportive peers.
If you are looking for books on craft, here are some of my recommendations:
--Save the Cat! The Last Book on Screenwriting That You'll Ever Need! by Blake Snyder.
--On Writing: A Memoir of the Craft by Stephen King.
--Bird by Bird: Some Instructions on Writing and Life by Anne Lamott.
--Dreyer's English: An Utterly Correct Guide to Grammar and Style by Benjamin Dreyer.
What are you working on now?
I have a couple of projects going at once. Since I write everything from young adult fiction to picture books, its nice to be able to switch back and forth between the different projects. Hopefully, I'll have more news soon!