Hey there! In this week's installment of the Author Interview Series, I chatted with S.M. Creanza about her writing habits and most recently published book. Check out what she had to say below!
1) Describe your most recently published book and/or your current work in progress.
My recent book is called Cricket and the Bird. It’s an Illustrated fantasy novel about love, loss, and change.
2) Which do you prefer: self-publishing or traditional publishing? What factors made you choose one over the other?
Due to time constraints, I’ve chosen to self-publish Cricket and the Bird. Still, in the future, I’d love to be traditionally published. Keep in mind, both platforms don’t guarantee success, so you really need to work hard no matter which path you take.
3) Are there any books, movies, music, etc. that influenced your writing?
I wouldn’t say any particular work of media has influenced me. Instead, I would say I was highly inspired by high-concept stories like Portal, Timeline, I, Robot, Enders Game, etc. to find my own personal voice. If I see something really awesome, I try to work on my own skills to produce something unique. As a result, when people look at my work, they are generally unable to pin it to a particular genre/influence.
4) Which is your favorite genre(s) to write in? Which genre have you never written in but would love to try someday?
My favorite genre to write in is Sci-Fi/fantasy with a touch of whimsy. Shockingly, I would love to write and illustrate a graphic novel erotica in the future (don’t tell your grandma).
5) Do you prefer reading on an e-reader or actual books? Which do you think is better from a publishing point of view?
I like reading hard copy books since I have eye problems and don’t want to burn them out via electronics. Of course, E-readers might have some great benefits, but let’s be honest, I’m a hard copy snob...
6) How has the online writing community affected your writing career?
It has a lot. If it weren't for them, I would not be self-publishing a novel.
7) Describe your typical writing routine.
What routine?
8) What is your ultimate goal in terms of writing?
To change people for the better (and sell some big-time children’s titles).
9) What has been your biggest writing struggle? What is your greatest strength?
I feel like I can’t type fast enough, and I make an inhuman amount of errors in my early drafts. My biggest strength as a writer is my eagerness to work with others to overcome my weaknesses.
10) Is there anything about the publishing world that has been very difficult? Has anything been easier than you expected? If you aren’t published yet, what do you anticipate being easy or difficult?
The number one hardest thing about being self-published is the financial strain. It’s EXPENSIVE. Next to that, it’s getting people interested enough to buy your book. Other than that, it’s fun.
11) What is your favorite way to market your book and yourself as an author?
Make friends and manipulate the internet algorithms.
12) Have you taken any writing classes? If yes, would you recommend them? If no, do you want to?
Outside of regular school, I think I was forced (yes forced; there was a time when I didn’t like English) to take two writing classes. I took one via CTY [ Johns Hopkins Center for Talented Youth ] and another in a small upstate school called Oakwood Friends. I guess it helped since now we’re here.
13) Is writing your full-time job? If yes, what was your last profession? If no, do you want it to be and what do you do now?
It’s a hobby. Currently, I am a full-time computer science student.
14) What do you think the future will hold for the publishing industry?
To be honest, I have no idea. Still, I think traditional publishing is here to stay, while the self-publishers will open some new possibilities.
15) What advice would you give to someone who has just started writing?
Ultimately, good writing boils down to always improving and learning how to work with others. If you have an open mind, you will be successful.
Keep up with S.M. Creanza's writing endeavors by following the links below!
Check out S.M.'s official website.
Buy Cricket and the Bird on Amazon.
Subscribe to S.M.'s YouTube channel.