Author Interview : Siri Katragadda (the author from Columbus!)

Please welcome Author Siri Katragadda on my blog! 

Author of When Amma was a Little Girl - Ganesha's Birthday in Columbus -  https://www.amazon.in/gp/aw/d/B08D3KLQSB 

Paperback - https://store.pothi.com/book/siri-katragadda-when-amma-was-little-girl-ganeshas-birthday-columbus

and When I was a Baby: At Zoo -https://www.amazon.in/gp/aw/d/B084F7N869 

• Introduce yourself.

I am Siri Katragadda who is an Electronics Engineer by profession and a novice writer by passion.  I grew up in Andhra Pradesh, India but now in Columbus a small urban town in USA where I work.

• Tell us about your books

I penned two children’s books, “When I was a Baby – At Zoo” & “When Amma was A Little girl – Ganesha’s Birthday in Columbus”. 

My first book is about a 5-year old narrating his experiences when he was a baby and how he helps people based on his baby experiences. He has three buddies which are emergency vehicles who help him during those expeditions. 

My second book is about two little boys who live in the city of Columbus, which is far away from their Mom’s ancestral home in India. They learn about this fun celebration from Mom and take part in this joyful event.

    

• What inspired you to write? 

Sharing Amma’s childhood in the form of a story is the favorite thing for my kid to do before his bed time. It usually starts with Amma’s story followed by my little ones. I have blogged for couple of years but writing a book is something inspired by this bed time routine. 

• Your favorite authors?

It keeps on changing and depends on the book or series I am reading! Now it is Amulya Malladi.

• Favorite life quote? 

A reader lives thousand lives before he dies. (Wow!) 

• Favorite destination 

I am an avid traveler and has a bucket list of destinations to visit. However, whenever I have an upcoming trip to Vijayawada (city which I grew up), I get excited for that forthcoming trip. No other destination fascinates me like this one because hometown is a treasure.  

• Hobbies

Travelling, reading, gardening and of course being master chef to my family of four.

• Favorite food

Nothing in particular but I like to experiment with food and try fusion recipes. 

• Do you celebrate as many Indian festivals as possible in Columbus? Which are they?

Always and each one of them! This is my way to connect back home.

• What are you planning to write next?

Sankranthi, which is amma’s next favorite festival. 

• How was response from family and friends on your book?

I come from a family of Engineers but none of them are writers. They got thrilled to hear my new adventure. I heard some good reviews and feedback which I tried to incorporate for the later releases.

• Who encouraged and supported you throughout writing? 

Akshar, my 5-year old who is also one of the characters in my second book. He is my first reader and critiques without any filter.

• Describe your writing desk

Ohh, it’s little wierd. Since I work full-time, I hardly get any time to write during mornings. I write at the end of the day after my kid’s sleep and it will be usually sitting on the couch or next to my kid’s bed.

• Favorite spot/place to write? 

I am a busy working mom with two active kids, so I would be happy if I get a quiet spot where I can focus. Also a walk in the trail or woods motivates my brain.

• Challenges you faced while writing or publishing?

Being a novice author, I did not get my first edited which was a major mistake. I feel book editing takes your book a long way. 

I, Hemdiva,  thank you for your precious time! It was a pleasure having you on my blog.  All the best and keep writing! 

Author Interview : Prakash Vir Sharma

 Author Interview : Prakash Vir Sharma

Special question- How did you come up with idea of “W to M OF Self Publishing”? What inspired you to write about the challenges of a self published author?

Well, there were a lot of things that resulted in this book. Its basically about the observations I made during these few years while I was writing books.
So a couple of years back when I started to write books, I noticed some of my friends had really great writing skills. Some of them also wanted to publish their works but got discouraged due to the difficulties they faced in their journey. Also, as an active member of many Facebook and Goodreads groups, I observed a lot of indie authors give up their dreams due to marketing issues. 

Added to that I saw a lot of misconceptions amongst people regarding the book writing process. I'll give you an example, about a couple of months ago, I was having a conversation with a friend who told me that he wanted to write a self-help book. We had a long conversation where he asked me a lot of stuff regarding self-publishing. During that conversation I happened to ask him what was the topic he wanted to write on and how was he qualified to write on the subject. Shockingly, he thought that it doesn't matter as he only wants to inspire others. That is not how it is though. In my opinion you should have the qualification to write on a topic and have experiences related to it to share with the readers for better understanding. 

Another misconception that I found was from various self-publishing guides and stuff. I noticed a lot of those said that write in genres that are popular among the readers and they told how to find those genres. However in my opinion, how can you write in genres you aren't even interested in. I mean yes, you can write but that will never be your best. I believe a person will give his best if he is interested in that given field.
To this date I have published 3 self-help books out of which my last book - MINDSET AND PASSION reached rank #1 on Amazon India and I have never used paid promotions. So this book is my experiences and strategies that I implemented during my journey so far and want to share with all those people who faced such issues and hope they can fulfill their dream as well.

Let’s welcome Prakash.
Thank you Hemdiva for having me here.
 
Introduction:
I am an educator and management professional by qualification, but social thinker and author by passion.
I was born in a remote village of Moradabad (U.P.) and raised in a village of Bijnor (U.P.). With a day job in steel sector, I travelled across India (except North-East).
At present, I am living in Kolkata (Calcutta - the city of joy) with my wife, a son and a daughter.
 
Tell us about your books.
Kathputli - short stories on socio-political and socio-religious issues of India.
Life In Shackles - short stories on plight of Indian women.
Mindset And Passion - The Psychology Of Success: a self-help book for personal development.
W to M of Self-Publishing: Why do Indie Authors Fail? - a comprehensive guide for self-publishing.

The books are absolutely free on Kindle Unlimited! Click the covers to start reading!

Why did you choose this particular genre/s?
My passion for helping others and thoughts on socio-political, socio-religious issues inspired me to write fiction and non-fiction.

The day you decided you will be a writer?
Though I was always interested in writing since my school days, but in 1990, during my graduation, I started freelancing for newspapers, which was the time when I not only realized I could write but also wrote a novel (unfortunately it’s still unpublished.)

Who helped you with your dream? Your support?
My guide was Mr Hari Singh Nirbhay, the editor of a Hindi weekly newspaper "Shrambheri" who published my first article. My Facebook friend, Ma Jivan Shaifaly, the editor of "Palpal India" and "Making India," inspired me to continue my writing. It's my wife, Divya, who not only supported me, but also helped me a lot to get recognition as a published author.

One important lesson you learned about self-publishing?
Don't follow any advice blindly.

Do you think the process of writing (Typing/Handwriting) is tiring? How do you deal with it?
Not at all. I enjoy it because I have a perfect strategy for that. But, undoubtedly, editing and proofreading sucks.

What profession you’d choose if not an author?
I wish to be a politician but I hate politics, job and business all. Everywhere everyone is compromising with ethics, and it hurts me. So, as of now I am planning to establish a good educational institute.

Do you think it’s easy/ difficult to write non-fiction?
Of course, writing a non-fiction is easier than fiction.

Have you ever met a fan/reader?
Not personally, because I haven't tried any book signing event yet.But, because I provide my social media links and email with my author bio in my books, I received many emails and messages on FB messenger appreciating my books. I would love to meet them.

Would you ever go for traditional publishing? (If you’re a self published author or vice versa)
Obviously, I would love to hook a renowned publisher. However, I have traditionally published two co-authored books.

Do you interact with other authors? Do you think it’s important?
Let's start with second part of this question. Yes, it's important to interact with other authors. As I told earlier, I am active member of many FB and GR groups, I interact with many authors, and most of them are foreigners. They are awesome, kind, helpful and cooperative. We learn from each other, do cross promotions and arrange many online events.

Your Birthday
My birthday falls four times in a year. Ha ha ha .…
Actually, it's 31st August, but on records 26th May. So, two times it falls according to English months and two times as per Hindi months. Ha ha ha …

Your favorite actor/actress?
Big B.

Your favorite authors. What are you reading currently?
It's common between you and me, "Rhonda Byrne."
Most of the time I read non-fiction and that too from indie authors. It helps them with reviews.

Ebooks / Paperbacks/ Hardcovers- Choose any two.
Paperbacks and E-books.

Your favorite food/dish/cuisine?
Onion Paratha, that I occasionally cook myself for whole family. They love it.

Your favorite place on earth? Why?
Goa, Vishakhapatnam and Puri, because I love nature, and sea beaches are my favorite places.

Your hobbies other than writing? Do you find time for it?
Traveling. I think I spent several years in train. Ha ha ha ...
I find time for long distance journeys almost on quarterly basis.

Your thoughts on life? What helps you to deal with ups and downs of life?
Life is a competition. Like success and failures, Ups and downs are part of life. When I feel stuck, I add more time to my daily exercise, walking and meditation routine.
Practically, being a management professional, I work on root cause analysis and elimination.

Your favorite quote?
"Nothing is impossible in the world. If you know exactly what you want to do, there is always a way of doing it."

If you become a billionaire overnight, what would be your reaction? What will you do with the money?
Personally, I don't want to be a billionaire. Because money can not bring happiness and joy.
But, if I become, I would prefer charity.

Do you do something for social cause, for the needy?
Yes, I visit a few old-age home and orphanage occasionally. I donate for social organizations. I prefer helping others. I provide online guidance to students.

Do you use any advertisement methods to promote your book? Which worked for you?
I never hired someone to promote my books. I believe in collaborative efforts. Even, apart from free KDP promotions and Goodreads giveaways, I distribute pdf to get reviews. I provide opportunities for guest blog, interviews and book reviews, and vice-versa. It works for me because I don't write for earning.

Your advice to newbie authors.
Establish an author brand. While outlining your first book, plan for marketing (collaboration or paid promotions whatever suits you). Be a good reader.
Do you think a self-published author can earn as much as they want or is it an impossible dream?
Yes, but with a solid marketing plan. Marketing means prodct, price place and promotion.
Simple economics: invest and earn.
However, there are many celebrity authors who after hitting bestseller list, started earning through writing and marketing coaching. If someone has those skills, better to hire a ghostwriter to continue writing, and focus on coaching as a source of income.

Thank you to the author for an amazing interview!

Amazon Author page-https://www.amazon.com/-/e/B072PCYJL1
Amazon Book Links-
W to M of Self-Publishing: Why do Indie Authors Fail?www.amazon.com/dp/B07B57FTBR
Mindset And Passion - The Psychology Of Successwww.amazon.com/dp/B074CSRCVT
Life In Shackleswww.amazon.com/dp/B072LF28ZL
Kathputliwww.amazon.com/dp/B071GHNSMV

Facebook page-https://www.facebook.com/prakaash.sharma.5
Twitter-https://twitter.com/Prakaashsharma
Instagram-https://www.instagram.com/authorprakash/
Pinterest-https://www.pinterest.com/prakash2484/
Blog/ website-http://www.booksandmotivation.wordpress.com
Goodreads author page-https://www.goodreads.com/author/show/16683777.Prakash_Vir_Sharma
Google+ -
E-mail- prakash2484@gmail.com


In the next post I'll be reviewing the author's newest book "W to M of self publishing". Stay tuned!

 

Author Interview: Junior Ranger Aida Frey

 

Let’s Welcome Aida Frey

Thank you so much for having me!

Tell about yourself and your book.

My name is Aida Frey, I’ve been a Jr. Ranger for 7 years and I’ve visited 304 National Parks! My book, “America, Can I Have Your Autograph?” is a book about my adventures at the National Parks and how they inspired me to visit our country!

 

What does a Junior Ranger mean and what do they do?

A Junior Ranger is a person of any age who visits our wonderful National Parks and learns something at every visit! They tell others about the beautiful places you can visit and take care of the park itself.

When did you first thought about becoming a junior ranger?

My first national park was Effigy Mounds in Iowa and my Mom and Dad took me there when I was only 9 years old. Two very nice lady rangers came up to me and helped me fill out my first Jr. Ranger booklet so I could receive my badge, it was life changing!

Inspiration behind your love for wildlife?

When I was a kid, I used to carry this plush animal of a fox, and I think seeing the actual animal and having a little toy to go along with it was cool.

What reactions do you get from family, friends, teachers, etc?

I always get the best reactions; everyone is always asking me questions and is always really proud of me!

Who always accompanies you to the national parks?

Both of my parents, so mom and dad

Your favourite Animal/Bird?

I would say foxes or wolves, seeing them in the National Parks were always a treat!

Do you have pets? Which?

I don’t since I travel way too much to keep one, but maybe one day

Where do you plan to visit next?

We plan on visiting Southern California over the summer of 2018; we’re still planning the specifics.

How did you come up with the idea of publishing your amazing experience as a book?

When I first started visiting the parks, I always wrote down what happened at that park, what I did and who did I meet, so after a while, I had this big pile of notebooks filled with stories. I had the idea in 8^th Grade to publish my stories and encourage others!

Do you look at writing as a career?

I think writing more books would be awesome, but my main focus for a career would be becoming the National Park Director so I can make more parks to visit!

If yes, which genres would you also like to write in?

I am thinking of continuing the story and maybe publishing a second book

Can everyone join you as junior ranger?

Yes! There is no age limit and it’s very easy and fun!

Can adults also join?

Of course! Both of my parents are Jr. Rangers and so was my Grandma! We went to the Grand Canyon and she got her badge with me too!

A funny experience you had in a national park?

I’ve had a wild horse stick it’s head into my car and eat an apple out of my hand, the full story has its own chapter in my book!

A scary experience?

I went to Indiana Dunes National Park with two of my other friends and we hiked a trail late in the evening. We actually got lost and bats were flying all around us! It was pretty scary, but awesome because it was such a unique experience!

Your favourite celebrity and why?

My favourite celebrity is Harry Styles from One Direction. I think he’s not afraid to express his thoughts on things through music, which encouraged me to learn to play the guitar like him!

Writing, travelling and studies. How do you manage all three?

I wish that was all I had to deal with! I also play sports, the guitar and book signings in my area and always busy with my life. My friends are really helpful in helping me balance everything, but it’s difficult sometimes.

Subjects you enjoy in school?

I take two college courses at my high school, which is psychology and US History, and those are my favorite classes because it challenges me and I learn A LOT.

One animal you think, the earth would be bad without?

I think birds. We hear them every single day and it would be really weird looking at the sky and seeing nothing.

Your favourite Quotes, Books, Authors?

My favourite book is “How To Be A Bawse” by Lilly Singh, Her book is about being the best version of yourself and how to be productive in even the most stressful situations.

Your Hobbies?

Playing hockey with my friends, listening to music and playing the guitar.

Favourite food/ cuisine?

Anything that’s edible really. I LOVE trying new foods! I also have an unhealthy obsessions with humus J  

Are you health conscious? What do you do for your health?

Since I play lacrosse and hockey over the summer, I tend to lay off the cans of pop and junk food. Of course every once in a while, I might cheat, but I try my best!

If you become a Millionaire overnight, what would you do with the money?

I think I would publish my second book, save some money for college and

visit more national parks!

 Connect with the Author:

 Facebook

 Twitter

Blog/Website- http://www.aidafreyjuniorranger.com/

 Instagram

 Buy her Book - http://www.lulu.com/shop/aida-frey-and-dana-dorfman/america-can-i-have-your-autograph-the-story-of-junior-ranger-aida-frey/paperback/product-22648371.html

 Join junior ranger programmes- https://www.nps.gov/kids/jrRangers.cfm


Interviewed by Hemdiva dev

 

 

 

Thank you!

Author Interview : Christopher Holley

Let’s welcome Christopher Holley

Tell us about your books. 

I have written 6 children's picture books, all with positive messages and a tad of silliness.  I am almost done with a young adult novel that Im really proud of.  It is really funny and is loosely based off my experiences as a teacher.  I have also written 1 teacher's manual teaching teachers about the art of classroom management.

The day you decided you will be a writer?

In 2008 I asked my friend if he would draw a picture book if I wrote one.  He said yes and A World Without Water was created.  I think writing that book showed me I am capable of putting together a coherent story.

Who helped you with your dream? Your support?

Artists, editors, family and friends all played a part in helping me accomplish my dream.

Do you think the process of writing (Typing/Handwriting) is tiring? How do you deal with it?

I only write when I feel like it.  It is tiring to be your own editor and critic.

What profession you’d choose if not an author?

I currently am a 3rd grade teacher and will probably do that until I retire, unless I was successful as an author.

Why did you choose this particular genre/s?

Truthfully, writing picture books just came easiest to me, so thats what I pursued.

Have you ever met a fan/reader?

Yes, other students in my school have read my books or have had them read to them and told me they loved them. 

Would you ever go for traditional publishing? (If you’re a self published author)

Yes, but finding a publisher and/or an agent seems very challenging and a lot harder than I had imagined.

Do you interact with other authors? Do you think it’s important?

It is very important to network, but I tend not to because I dont really have the time to dedicate to being helpful back.

Your favorite food/dish/cuisine?

Wendy's spicy chicken sandwich (Im a cheap date).

Your favorite place on earth? Why?

Home because the outside world becomes overwhelming at times.

Your hobbies other than writing? Do you find time for it?

Martial arts, football and Magic the Gathering.  I do find time for my hobbies, but I wish I got to do them more.

Your thoughts on life? What helps you to deal with ups and downs of life?

Life is amazing.  I hope I never die, as I am and have always been very blessed.  

Your favorite quote?

You miss 100% of the shots you do not take.

If you become a billionaire overnight, what would be your reaction? What will you do with the money?

I would be very happy and do good with the money after I had a little bit of fun (traveling etc.).

 Thank You!

Hemdiva: I’ve been lucky to read Chumbalina by Christopher and it was such an amazing read! Here’s my review -

Chumbalina! I just loved her. The author smartly handles a very deep topic. It clearly states that you can't judge someone from how they look. The inner self is what matters. I also liked the fact that, despite everyone not appreciating her body, Chumbalina herself was proud of herself. We often feel bad about ourself because others make us feel so. I liked the end as well, the message of eating what is right and also what you like is awesomely combined. Illustrations are nice too. A modern story in fairy tale style with a very good message!! Kudos to the author :)

Author Interview : Angèle Gougeon

Let’s welcome author Angèle Gougeon.

Angèle Gougeon: Let me just say that I am so happy to be here. 

Thank you… We’re so happy to have you here, too!

Tell us about your books.

My current published novel, Sticks and Stones, is a dark paranormal that follows the life of a teen – Sandra Daron – who has a terrible gift. She has visions the moment she touches someone. Usually of that person's death. I've had some incredibly lovely people compare the book to a V.C. Andrews styled novel with a Supernatural twist.

Sticks and Stones

Angèle Gougeon's Author/ Book links

 Twitter

 Like on Facebook

The day you decided you will be a writer?

Always. What I mean is: I don't remember a time when I didn't want to write. My mother jokes that every time she passed my room when I was a child, I'd have the floor lined with my toys. We were going off on an adventure. I still remember one of the first stories I wrote in the second grade. Once I finally figured out how to dot my I's and cross my T's … well, I never put my pencil down again.

Who helped you with your dream? Your support?

I have a wonderful family that has always pushed me towards my goals. My biggest fan, however, has always been my mother, as corny as that sounds. She's the one who gave me my love of literature. She's always been my guinea pig and primary beta reader (though I'm sure she hasn't always been overjoyed to be so. There are always those skeleton spines in our closets that should remain where they're buried. Some stories definitely won't ever be seeing the light of day again). I could always count on her unvarnished truth of my work. But I've also had countless teachers, friends, and guidance counselors that have helped feed my dreams of becoming an author. I would never have published my first short story, (never mind my first novel), without their help and support.

Do you think the process of writing (Typing/Handwriting) is tiring? How do you deal with it?

Oh, it is very tiring! I'm a slow writer and, most days, it feels like I'm chipping away at a block of stone with … well, a banana. I listen to a lot of music – and I also work as an artist. I can easily switch over to one of my other projects if my characters are giving me a bit too much hassle.

What profession you’d choose if not an author?

Is saying I'd work as an artist cheating? Especially since I already do that?

How about: ice cream taster? Okay, okay, I'll be serious. At one point, after graduating from university, I was very much interested in becoming an animator. I also looked into art restoration. It's hard to talk about 'what-if's,' however, when I already have my dream job.

Why did you choose this particular genre/s?

I grew up on Fantasy. As I grew older, I branched out into, well, almost every other genre imaginable. But my first love has always been Fantasy and Paranormal works. My pieces tend to all have some kind of supernatural or mythical element to them. I dabble in comedy, but I also love writing those darker pieces that, hopefully, will linger long after the story itself has come to a close.

Have you ever met a fan/reader?

Yes! I've met some absolutely wonderful readers and authors along my writing journey. I don't think I'll ever get used to meeting someone who has read or heard of my book. It's always a humbling experience.

Would you ever go for traditional publishing? (If you’re a self published author)

*My book was published through a publisher – so I suppose I'll skip this question? If you'd still like to have an answer from me on the subject, please let me know!*

Do you interact with other authors? Do you think it’s important?

There's a wonderful sense of community in the author world. Almost every author I've met has genuinely wanted to support and offer feedback and guidance. If you're going through an experience, or if you have a question about the writing, editing, or publishing process, chances are there is someone out there with an answer, and they will be willing to share. The author community is absolutely amazing and I see no reason not to get involved, whether you're a writer or reader.

Your favorite food/dish/cuisine?

Pasta. Lasagna in particular. And, chocolate, of course! (Not together. Though, yes, I realize that's also a thing.) I'm also quite fond of tourtière.

Your favorite place on earth? Why?

It's probably a bit boring to say the place where I am now: the prairies of Canada that I grew up in. Yes, the summers are filled with humidity and a scourge of mosquitoes. Yes, the winters are long and bitter and cold. But I also live in rural Manitoba – there are four historical buildings within walking distance of my house. We're sat flush between two cities and have a local grocery store just moments away. Sometimes an owl roosts in the trees outside my window at night and we have one tiny aspen in a sea of oaks that sounds like an ocean every time there's a wind. I love Manitoba, and wouldn't want to be anywhere else … no matter how much us Manitobans like to complain.

Your hobbies other than writing? Do you find time for it?

*I've already answered this, I feel, when talking about my art*

Your thoughts on life? What helps you to deal with ups and downs of life?

Just never stop trying. Most goals and dreams take a lot of work to reach. I've been lucky enough to have a great support system around me as I work toward mine. I know it sounds idealistic, but every time life knocks you down, pick yourself back up and keep walking. Because that just means you're one step closer than you were before. Those disappointments become so much easier to bear when you have friends and family at your side.

Your favorite quote?

*I can't answer this! I always find this question so difficult.*

If you become a billionaire overnight, what would be your reaction? What will you do with the money?

The thought fills me with fright. I've never wanted to become rich writing. I'd just like to live comfortably, and take care of my family the best I can.

 Do you believe in ghosts/ Did you have a supernatural experience?

The main character in Sticks and Stones has visions. I can't say I particularly believe in this particular phenomenon, but I do believe in some aspects of the paranormal (and, yes, that does include ghosts). I've had too many little experiences over the years. For example: being terrified of the garage in the house I grew up in (long before I learned that someone had hanged themselves inside), having lights and appliances turning on by themselves right in front of me, and even hearing ghostly footsteps when I worked at the Marine Museum in Selkirk - when no other employees or customers were around. There's something very compelling in the mystery of the supernatural, probably why I enjoy writing it so much!