Let’s welcome Jennifer Berry!
Tell us about your books.
"The Prayer Box" is my first book. However, I’ve written eight plays and have been working as a playwright for years.
The day you decided you will be a writer?
I can’t remember the day but I always kept a journal. And I always wrote stories. Then I put writing away as my high school English Teacher said I could never be a writer. It wasn’t until college when I had an incredible creative writing professor who encouraged me.
Who helped you with your dream? Your support?
My husband is my biggest support and I have a circle of very supportive friends who make up my creative family. I also have to add my nine year old twins are my biggest cheerleaders.
Do you think the process of writing (Typing/Handwriting) is tiring? How do you deal with it?
I take many breaks during the day. And I exercise to release stress.
What profession you’d choose if not an author?
Probably a visual artist.
Why did you choose this particular genre/s?
I thought this particular story was best written as a children’s book.
Do you think it’s easy/ difficult to write for children?
As a playwright, I write a lot of dialogue. With “The Prayer Box” I had to flex a different mussel. Less is definitely more with a children’s book. You must make children’s books simple or you loose your reader.
Have you ever met a fan/reader?
I have met many audience members of my plays. It is always fun.
Would you ever go for traditional publishing? (If you’re a self published author)
I think any way to get your story out in the world is just fine.
Do you interact with other authors? Do you think it’s important?
I do. I have a writer’s group that I meet with once a month. Other writers inspire me.
Your favorite food/dish/cuisine?
Anything my husband cooks?
Your favorite place on earth? Why?
My home or the Southern California coast line. Why? Because it’s home and I'm there with the people whom I love.
Your hobbies other than writing? Do you find time for it?
I’m a killer baker. Yes, I find time for it about three times a week. It gives me a nice break from words. I also get to give my twins some yummy treats after school.
Your thoughts on life? What helps you to deal with ups and downs of life?
Oh, gosh! Life? My first thought is: life is a gift. I love life and being alive.
I was really sick a year ago and it gave me a perspective to enjoy every day. Even if you are having a bad day, there is still something to focus on that will bring out your attention. My children’s laugh, the view from my kitchen window, dawn breaking with my favorite cup of tea.
When I get really down, I call my best friend. Having a strong community of friends, neighbors and family gets me though the down times.
Your favorite quote?
Aristotle: The definition of happiness is the exercise of one’s vital talents along the lines of excellence in a life that gives them scope.
If you become a billionaire overnight, what would be your reaction? What will you do with the money?
I would probably make sure everyone I love had enough money to be safe and secure.
Special question- How do you think does prayer/ praying help us?
There have been so many studies that prayer elevates pain or stress in the mind.
But more important than that, it taps into our biggest wishes, our most heartfelt concerns, and our sincerest gratitude.
Prayer is personal. It can be different things to different people. But children’s prayers are so often prayers for the world and we should listen to that!
Thank You so much for the interview!
The Prayer Box by Jennifer Berry
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