Interview With Author Anita Polly
Tell us about yourself and how many books you have written.
A bibliophile from a very young age, books are a great joy to me. I love being outdoors, have huge respect for our environment, and am totally in awe of nature. A passionate runner, I spend a lot of time out on the road and trails wherever I am. Running helps me think, clears the cobwebs from my brain, and brings peace to my soul. Fascinated and interested in bees, such magnificent creatures, they have been included in all of my books, and I hope to raise awareness among children in terms of the crucial role they play in keeping our planet alive. Love a good coffee, chocolate cake, and peanut butter! Travel whenever I can but also love being at home with my family and animals. Love people who are kind, is my favorite characteristic in a person. I have written five books.
What is the name of your latest book and what inspired it?
My book, Hero Learns about Kindness, was inspired by many observations and interactions I have had over the years. I believe that kind children become kind adults and the world needs a whole lot more of those. Technology has changed our world completely, nothing we don't all know, but what I have seen too often around me is children so absorbed in tablets and phones that they are never truly present. My opinion is that children's social skills and development is being negatively influenced by this. Their communication skills are regressing and their mindfulness of their behavior in some cases is marginal. It is a challenging world that children are growing up in and I hope that my books will help them navigate these waters more confidently, kindly and ultimately happier.
Do you have any unusual writing habits?
I snack all the time! Not sure which I do better, writing or snacking…
What authors, or books have influenced you?
Growing up, I loved Dr. Seuss, doesn't everybody? The Secret Seven, The Famous Five, The Secret Garden, Madeline, off the top of my head. Absolutely LOVE The Boy, the Mole the Fox and the Horse by Charlie Mackesy. Think it should be compulsory readying!
What are you working on now?
I am working on the following five books in my Hero series and also pottering with some ideas on novels in a different genre.
What is your best method or website when it comes to promoting your books?
Difficult one to answer. I think it depends on the book to a large degree. What I am sure about is that your approach on any medium has to be personal and authentic.
Do you have any advice for new authors?
Have faith in yourself, work hard, use friends and family as bouncing boards, spread the word about what you are doing, and never give up! If you have strongly considered writing a book and don't do it, you may always regret it,
What is the best advice you have ever heard?
Trust your instincts. Do your research. Don't write about something you don't feel passionate about. Enjoy the process, even on the tough days; that is part of the process!
What are you reading now?
I usually read 2 to 3 books at a time. The Book of Lost Names by Kristin Harmel and The Lacuna by Barbara Kingsolver (2nd read). I also always need a 'hamburger for my brain', Insignificant Events in the Life of a Cactus by Dusti Bowling,
What’s next for you as a writer?
More writing and more writing, and did I mention more writing? Exploring different genres. I am seriously considering finishing a memoir I started many years ago.
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?
Oh noooo, only 3 or 4… Trust I will be rescued soon! All the Light we Cannot See, by Anthony Doerr, White Oleander by Janet Fitch and Pillars of the Earth by Ken Follett,
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