When did you know that you wanted to be a writer? How did you start?
It wasn’t that long ago actually, I’d say it was shortly after my first kiddo was born that I knew I wanted to write a book. We didn’t have a lot of disposable income back then, but I had a library card! So I read a lot of books! I’ve probably read a good ten times the amount of books in these past seven years, than I have in my entire life. And that’s when I knew (insert cliché here) that I had a book in me!
I started writing on my first novel three and a half years ago, which I just sent to my publisher at the end of August! Yeah! I researched and plotted my story for the first six months of that, but even then, it took wild turns as my writing progressed. I’ve also taken courses in creative writing at Mount Royal, here in Calgary. I did anything and everything to learn how to craft a story that people would want to read. And that I’d want to read too!
What genre(s) do you write in? What is it that you love about them?
I would classify my novel Harmless as a young adult, supernatural, horror, coming of age book. I love reading and writing in this genre because I love the big feelings, big drama and big problems portrayed in these stories. These kinds of stories give me a break from my more subdued reality… not that I’m complaining J
Who are some of your favorite authors? Why?
I don’t necessarily have a favorite author, but here are a few books and authors I’ve really enjoyed.
The I am Number Four series by Pittacus Lore
Anything by John Green, Cassandra Claire, or Rick Yancey.
I’ll Meet You There by Heather Demetrios.
The Messenger by Mark Zusak
I could literally go on forever… I have to restrict myself to only reading one book a week, otherwise I get nothing else done.
What inspires your ideas? How do you come up with them?
Oh! Everything inspires me! Careful what you say or do around me… It just might end up in one of my books. I am a serious people watcher, as I assume most writers are. I see stories happen around me everyday.
What are you working on now?
I just finished my manuscript and sent it off to my publisher at the beginning of August. So now, I’m working on a few things.
- I’m outlining a graphic novel prequel to my young adult novel, with the help of graphic artist Brianna Schretlen.
- Finalizing the drafts of my book trailer and promotion materials, including a kiosk display. Also with the help Brianna.
- Outline the sequel to my novel.
- Putting together lists of potential book signing and promotional event for my upcoming novel.
- And, trying not to go crazy with anticipation on the release of my first book!
What does a typical writing look like for you/what is your process?
Whenever I start a new chapter I have a list of characters that are in it, where it set, and what points need to be made. I know what needs to be achieved by the end of the chapter but I’m not entirely sure how my characters will get there. Every chapter is an adventure!
If your novel was made into a movie, what actors would you cast to play the three main roles?
Logan Lerman would make a fantastic Mason Allen. Chloe Grace Moretz, I’d cast her for the part of Rachel Barnes and Madison Davenport as her friend Julie. And last but not least, the oh so steamy Nathan Grey Hawk would be played by Rick Mora, except… a bit of a younger version.
What have been some of the biggest lessons you’ve learned on your writing journey so far?
Every writer has different needs and goals, so there is no one right way to publish a book. Do your research when publishing! Then do it again.
What advice do you have for aspiring writers?
Don’t be in a rush to write your book. Although it was frustrating at times, I’m glad it took me three and a half years to craft my book. It is a richer manuscript for it.
Thank you so much! Where can people find out more about you and your books?
Website: www.katherinedell.com
Twitter: https://twitter.com/katherine_dell
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/katherine.dell
Goodreads: https://www.goodreads.com/user/show/38771569-katherine-dell