Tell us about Finding Bertha, What is it about?

My novel spans two separate time periods, present and past. It’s a story within a story. The main modern character is Eli. Recently divorced and struggling financially and emotionally, he inherits an old house from his Aunt Bertha, which needs a LOT of repairs. During renovation, he finds a document with Bertha’s name on it, placing her as a young woman writing for a socialist newspaper in Berlin during WWII. Not knowing much about Bertha as a young woman, he’s astounded by this and later, after more research, discovers she was a remarkable woman who, like millions of others, risked their lives for the Resistance and saved thousands of children during the Kindertransport. By finding her story, he finds himself.

Who is your best target audience suited for this story?

I’ve enjoyed hearing from a diverse crowd of readers, so I’m not really sure there is a single target for this book. To me, historical fiction is just about for everyone. My children’s books are geared toward younger children about 3-6 years old.

Do you have a favorite character in your story?

I do! Although I love all my characters, i.e. Bertha, Eli, Robert, my absolute love is Eddy. Don’t want to give too much away here, but he embraces life to the fullest. His loves, laughs, acceptance of all, even when many don’t accept him as a gay man in the 1930s-1940s Europe. This sets him up to be one of the most vulnerable for nonacceptance, imprisonment, and death, even before the Nazis showed up. I believe Eli learns just as much from Eddy as he does Bertha! I can’t choose between my children book characters. They all have personal connections for me. Pelican, Pa, Bobby, Eco, Nylah, and little Eli…all my children!

When did you start writing? 

Ten years ago. 

How long did your book take to complete?

Too long! I actually put the book down for several years and then picked it back up. Once I got serious about where I wanted the characters and story to go, it took me about 5 years to complete. All of my children books take about a year, as I illustrate them by hand. It’s a little tedious, but I love the end result.

Now that your book is in print, do you have any regrets?

None. I’m very proud of my books.

Anything you would do differently?

Not really. Maybe take more time out of my day to write. Life seems to get in the way, sometimes.

What is the most difficult part of your writing or artistic process?

I tend to overthink and plan. It wastes time. I work and play hard so time is precious to me.

If you could tell yourself anything as a younger writer what would it be?

Just write. Don’t be so afraid or worry about what others may think. Do it for yourself. I greatly struggled with the illustrations of my children’s books for a long time. Never thinking I was artistic enough really held me back. Then one day I realized I could just create what I liked. As a result, I love my sweet creations. They are mine and I can only hope someone else enjoys them with their children. As for the novel, I really enjoyed writing, researching, creating my own story. So, just write it down.

What was the best money you ever spent as a writer?

Jera Publishing! My jump start came from their meet-up group of writers and just attending every class, seminar, writer’s group I could. It really inspired me to keep going. Finally, when I was ready to jump in the deep water, Jera helped me set up my own publishing forum, formatting my work for me, answering questions about everything from copyright to printing, and giving great referrals for good editors, cover design, etc. Their complete packages or options of a la carte services allowed me to publish in my own comfort zone. I really value their expertise and never go to print without them.

What motivates you as a writer?

Reading other great writers and their stories, listening to audio books and Storycorps on NPR. I really love real stories.

Are you currently working on another book? Is it the same genre?

I am. Both another novel and a children’s book. Again, getting that slow start. But, its swirling around in my head and in notes, for sure. Next comes my storyboard. That really helps me plot it out.

What skills, education, and/or experience have you acquired that helped you develop as a novelist?

I’ve been a language arts teacher for over 20 years. Certainly, that does not a writer/illustrator make! But I do practice what I’ve always taught my students: Write what you know, write what you love, and just write for yourself. It can be very cathartic.

Do you try to be original or to deliver to readers what they want?

No. Again, I must write what interests me. I love historical fiction as I love reading history and real stories about real people. But I wouldn’t be able to ever write a history book. I’m so grateful to those that have and have done it well, however.

Do you have a blog or social media page that keeps your fan base engaged and informed about your projects?

I post on Facebook, Instagram, and LinkedIn. But, honestly, not often. And I’m the worst salesperson on the planet with very little interest in marketing…even my own stuff. Haha!

Do you find reviews helpful?  Or intimidating?

First critique I ever got came from a fertilizing company that had a gift shop in their corporate office. They were actually interested in housing my Eco in the Garden (children’s book about an organic worm and his importance to the farm). One of the CEO’s pulled a ‘thumbs down’ to the book stating that the cover pictured a “worm eating through a perfectly good apple” and “that would never happen.” I got a little hot. So, I didn’t look at reviews on Amazon for awhile after that. But, time passed and now I actually enjoy a decent critique…and occasionally throwing a perfectly good apple in the compost.

What marketing have you done for your book? What worked and what didn’t?

Reaching out to book clubs. Discussing and signing the copies they purchased as a group…I loved doing that and hope to do more.

What publishing, editing, formatting, cover and/or interior design, website building, marketing, social media, etc. services did you do yourself, and what did you hire others for?

Again, I hired Jera for formatting and they referred me to a terrific editor. They also helped with font, spacing, etc.

What would your writing spirit animal be?

Sloth. I’m slow, but sure.