As a writer, what scares you the most?
Everyone says rejection, but I’d have to say acceptance of my manuscript and then having to come up with another idea for another manuscript. I’ve spent so much time with my current characters it probably would be odd not to have them rambling around my head anymore. It’s scary for me at times to have my words out there for all to judge, but I know publication and acceptance is the golden reward for our fruits of labor.
When it comes to writing, are you an early bird, or a night owl?
I rise about 5:30 am, read through my spiritual affirmations, check email and get a Pilates session in before the girls and hubby rise. Once the girls are off to school I make sure that I’m organized for my “day job” and then hit the ground running with my writing. This way when my boss calls late morning/early afternoon it’s not difficult to switch gears. Morning is definitely my best creative time.
What is the best writing advice you’ve ever received?
So many people that I’ve met over the last two years have given me very sound advice. The one that stands out from early on is from Gayle Jacobson-Huset, Assistant Editor, Stories for Children Magazine: “Don't worry about your writing so much ... your girls are young yet and need you ... your time for writing more and more will come sooner than you think ... just try to write something -- even if it's an email or a letter to somebody, or even a journal entry -- every day to keep your skills up, and also read, read, read children's books in the genre you hope to specialize in ... the rest will come in due time. I think you're doing great!”
Do you have another book on the works? Would you like to tell readers about your current or future projects?
I am working on my first book through the Institute of Children’s Literature Advanced Book Course. Tentatively entitled, “Images of the Past,” includes historical events of General George Washington and Major John Andre. However, the long ago occupants, Nicole, and company are purely fictional.
Article comments
1 - Llinda Kuzyk
I thoroughly enjoyed reading this interview. Donna pointed out some things that she has done and is doing that have spurred me to deal with some issues of my own, in terms of making this writing life work. One of the things is a "sacred writing space and time." I need to do that and I need to do that soon! Thanks for sharing. Linda
2 - Jewel Sample
Inspiring interview of a writing mom who has found a balance between availability to meet the needs of her family and her professional goals.
Thank you for sharing a part of your real self Donna!
Blessings to you,
Jewel
3 - Jan Verhoeff
What a pleasant interview! I often find the most informative reading is wrapped up in personal attributes and understandings of the way we as individuals perceive ourselves.
As a mom, writer, professional, I recognize the characteristics required and appreciate them in your interview, Donna. Thank you for sharing a little bit of yourself.
Jan Verhoeff
4 - Donna McDine
Ladies...thanks for stopping by so quickly and leaving such lovely comments. Glad you enjoyed the interview. I'm even more happy I have a door & wall on my workspace now...contractor is here now working on the kitchen and the noise is quite loud, but it will be worth it in the end. Here's to inspiration!
Warm regards,
Donna
5 - Mayra Calvani
It was great having you here, Donna! Thanks for all the useful advice. I also would like ot thank you ladies for stopping by and leaving a comment.
Best,
Mayra
6 - Kim Smith
Hey Donna! Love the interview. Was happy to see that we share a love of early morning activities and Susan Cooper. Best wishes for the future!
Kim
7 - Cynthia Reeg
Donna,
Thanks for letting us into your world for just a bit and sharing your journey. Best wishes with all your writing endeavors.
And to Mayra, another great interview!
Cindy
8 - Diana Delosh
Great Interview - Donna! Seems like you live in the perfect place to research your novel in progress. As an illustrator/writer - who always has problems juggling her personal and professional lives it was inspiring to read how you have found balance. Wish you loads of luck with all your creative endeavors. -Di
9 - Sparky Firepants
Great interview, Mayra. It's always interesting to hear about author's personal lives in relation to their work.
Donna, I hope your day job is Full-time Author very soon!
10 - Beverly McClure
You are an inspiration to all of us, Donna. A wonderful interview. How exciting to live where so much history took place. Your story sounds great, and I'll be looking for a copy some day.
Mayra, you always ask the most interesting questions. Great interview.
Beverly
11 - Donna McDine
The lovely comments of support are very touching...thank you everyone. The writing community is such a wonderful support!
Warmest regards,
Donna
12 - Carma Dutra
This was a great interview. Donna thanks for letting us all get a glimpse of the freelance writing life. You are doing great.
13 - c hoare
An interesting interview, Donna & Mayra.
It really is inspiring to live amid history, and so good that you write to share that sense of history with others.
Chris H.
14 - Jan Verhoeff
I came back to reread the portion about your office, again. I've got a corner of the living room sectioned off and use it as my office for writing, tax season, school (I am currently taking classes AND teaching classes), and for most anything else that needs doing. I find I must be extremely organized or it all becomes chaos. And honestly, I'm not extremely organized. I like the idea of having a separate room. Thanks for the idea.
Jan
15 - Jessica Kennedy
Donna,
It seems like you've made great strides since I interviewed you. I enjoyed seeing all of your hard work paid off.
Mayra,
I'm happy to see your success growing. What an exciting time.
Blessings,
Jessica Kennedy
The Differently-Abled Writer
16 - Donna McDine
Hello All...was just checking out all the other wonderful interviews by Mayra...thanks one and all for stopping by and for your wonderful words of support. Here's to everyone's writing careers and success!
Warmly,
Donna