Interview With Author Amanda Wilson
Tell us about yourself and how many books you have written.
Hi, I’m Amanda, a schoolteacher turned homeschool mom of four. Besides being a busy homeschool mom, I’m also married to a preacher and very engaged in church life. I love God and kids are my jam. I’ve been blogging about life as a homeschool mom for a couple of years, but this is my very first book! I’m super excited!
What is the name of your latest book and what inspired it?
My book is called “Heading into Homeschool: a Step-by-Step Faith-Based Plan for Beginning to Homeschool”. After 14 years in the public school classroom, eight years homeschooling and two years blogging about my experiences, I decided to write a book for families who want to begin homeschooling. Jumping into homeschool can be daunting without a roadmap showing you how to get started. Even with my background experience as a teacher, I felt totally overwhelmed when I started homeschooling. There were so many decisions to make and new ideas to understand! Wishing I had someone to walk me through it step-by-step, I created the book I wish I could have read 8 years ago! Now, I just hope it is a blessing and help to others.
Do you have any unusual writing habits?
As a busy momma, I blog while my tiniest one is napping. When she wakes up – I’m done! Sometimes I squeeze in a little more writing time in the evening when the kids have all gone to bed. Mom first -author 2nd! No other unusual writing habits – unless you count nibbling on chocolate while typing.
What authors, or books have influenced you?
I’m a voracious reader (when I have time!) so I’ve been inspired by many authors through the years. Hands down my fav author is L.M. Montgomery, author of Anne of Green Gables. And, of course, as a Christian, I’m super inspired by the world’s best book ever – the Bible – truly a masterpiece. But, beyond that, I love reading the classics or vacillating between non-fiction parenting books and a good historical Christian fiction. As a homeschool mom, I also devour copious amounts of kids books each year, from picture books to chapter books.
What are you working on now?
Right now I’m simply writing for my blog – maestramom.com. I’ve been working on releasing Bible songs for kids each week that I’m hoping to pull together into a book format in the future.
What is your best method or website when it comes to promoting your books?
My website is www.maestramom.com
Do you have any advice for new authors?
Still being a new author myself, the only thing I can say is – just go for it!
What is the best advice you have ever heard?
The best advice ever is from scripture – Love the Lord your God with all your heart, all your soul, and all your mind and love your neighbor as yourself.
What are you reading now?
I just finished reading the journals of L.M Montgomery and simultaneously Gregor the Overlander – a phenomenal kids book by Suzanne Collins. My older kids have been reading them and begged me to read them, too. So glad I did!
What’s next for you as a writer?
I plan to continue connecting with my audience at maestramom.com where I talk about everything from mom life to homeschooling to Bible songs for kids. I’d love for you to join me!
If you were going to be stranded on a desert island and allowed to take 3 or 4 books with you what books would you bring?
1. My Bible
2. Anne of Green Gables (can I bring the whole series?????)
3. a hymn book
4. Pride and Prejudice
Author Websites and Profiles
Amanda Wilson’s Social Media Links
Wonderful interview! I sense a great enthusiasm for what you do and know it must be infectious! You’re truly inspiring in so many areas. I wish you continued success in all of your endeavors!