1. What inspired you to start writing/creating art, and how has that inspiration evolved over time?

I have been writing since I was very young, longer than I can recall. I've always been drawn to storytelling in some respect, even going so far as to be a bit of a chronic liar as a kid. Thankfully, I grew past the lying stage and turned my efforts into writing stories. My dad once told me that if I had a large emotion and was struggling to deal with it, that I should write about it. So while my early stories (as a child) were about my simple wants or silly sense of humor my stories as I matured turned into vehicles to understand my changing world and mind.

2. Can you share the story behind your latest work? What was your creative process like?

I have multiple projects in the works. The only one released so far is books 1-3 of a 5 book series. I started writing this series as a young child and it has grown with me as much as I have developed it. I was twelve years old and feeling a need for independence and shoved all that need into a story. It inevitably changed and grew but in 2014 I published the first in what would become a 5 book series. My process is an amalgamation of plotter, pantser, and exploratory writer. I write in scenes around a basic skeleton until the final structure comes through.

3. What themes or messages do you aim to convey through your work, and why are they important to you?

Independence, self-determination and self-actualization in the face of conflict, war, and societal and parental pressure. These are all things I dealt with as a child growing up watching the Iraq War unfold on TV.

4. What advice would you give to aspiring authors/artists who are just starting their journey?

Be consistent. Build writing into your schedule. Take writing advice like "show don't tell" with a grain of salt. Most simplified advice is distilled from something that is context specific. Don't let it stop you from writing or telling the story.

5. What role has self-publishing or independent production played in your career, and what have you learned from the process?

It has given me a sense of strength and independence over my own creative process. I can say that there are definitely ways to do things professionally and there are things that can have a more personal touch. Doing adequate research is very important in every stage of the process.

6. How do you connect with your audience, and what has been your favorite moment of reader or viewer feedback?

I have always loved talking to people one-on-one. I've not quite figured out the mass marketing aspect of publishing but I have enjoyed doing in person events and talking to people about my books and my process.

7. How do you handle challenges like writer's block or creative burnout, and what motivates you to keep going?

For me, writer's block is usually a problem with the text. Like I know it's not working and the solution is to try and figure it out. Usually that means throwing a wrench into the story and flipping things on their head. Or sometimes it's a reaction to a need for a change in scenery at which point I go to a cafe or bar to write. I keep myself motivated by having short term goals, usually daily or weekly word counts.

8. What’s next for you? Can you share any upcoming projects or future creative goals you’re excited about?

I'm currently editing an enemies to friends story about two women on opposite sides of war. My next actual writing project will be about a young woman imprisoned in an unjust corrections system and has to fight her way out. Think Lord of the Flies meets Uncharted (the video game).

9. Who are some of your biggest creative influences, and how have they shaped your work or style?

K.A. Applegate, David Lubar, and Phillip Pullman have been my primary influences. I think they were instrumental at talking about heavy topics and making it digestable for middle grade and young adult audiences. I have tried to find that balance in my own work, though as I proceed I think things are aging up to where I think most of my work will fall into either new adult or just regular old adult fiction.

10. How has your personal life or experiences influenced your writing/art, and are there any particular moments that stand out?

I spent the years between the ages of 10 and 16 traveling around the United States in an RV with my parents and brother. Before the age of 16 I had seen most of the continental United States, and I think that gave me a sense of confidence about entering the world as an adult. I still had a whole lot to figure out but when it came to my writing it really gave me a leg up on the gravity of content.

Arbor Winter Barrow | Author

Elm Jed | Author