Here are ten things about authors readers don’t know!
- Reading fiction is the act of immersing yourself into an author’s imagination. There are secrets hiding in between the lines and paragraphs of each page. You only need to pay attention.
- You can decipher an author’s personal likes and dislikes by the characters, settings, moods, and even the food that is served up in the narrative.
- There’s always a “seed of truth” in every story, whether evidenced by a character, situation, or outcome. Somewhere in the story, there’s a point of inspiration for the author.
- Authors struggle with first drafts. First drafts are probably closer to fourth or fifth drafts.
- The act of writing a novel is an act of courage. Authors don’t always know the middle or even the end of a story. Outlines are often created as the story unfolds.
- Authors hate to let readers down; they are particularly concerned with wrapping up a story in the most satisfying fashion.
- Most authors are afraid to read reviews. But reviews are critically important to the success of any book. So, if you enjoy a novel, take the time to leave a review on Amazon, Goodreads, or any other retailer. You’ll make the author very happy.
- The consumption of massive quantities of snacks accompany the writing of a novel. Anything will do. Sweet or salty. Even leftovers. Which is why most authors choose not to work at the kitchen table. It’s too close to the refrigerator.
- Animals play an important role in an author’s life. They never talk back or offer criticism. Their loving glances confirm the author’s new project is brilliant.
- Authors are like moles. They prefer to hide in dark places, popping up to catch the sunlight only when they must. Most are terribly shy, and since they work alone, need to be reminded from time to time to smile. But on the whole, they are lovely people.
How many of these things did you know? Let me know in the comments below!
How about authors who, as they are writing a book, get sidetracked by an idea into writing a different book?
This author’s house is never as clean as when I am in the middle of writing. Or planning to write. Anything but actually writing.
Hi Margaret –
I am impressed. Who doesn’t love a clean house. Hmm. I hadn’t considered that might be an activity worthy of distraction. Come to think of it, the kitchen could use a good wipe down!
Being a writer, of course I knew all of these! LOL And they are so true… especially #8; I single-handedly support the chocolate industry!
Here’s #11 for you: Writers live in their make-believe worlds to hopefully understand how to live in this one… and pray their readers will also benefit in the same way. Fiction is not just escapism… its underlying value is in learning how to be human and why we are here in the first place.
Great blog! thanks!
Hi Susan –
You’re so right. Writing is often the best therapy. Great addition!
I knew a few of them. That knowledge comes from my time over the years of knowing Author’s, helping Author’s and reviewing books for Author’s, if any of that counts.
Hi Kara –
Glad they resonated with you. And yes – it all counts.