Tell us about yourself and how many books you have written.
I was practically born writing! Seriously, I began writing as a young child and always loved to write poems and short stories. My elementary school teachers praised my work and encouraged me to further develop my skills. In high school, I wrote for the school newspaper. Later, I went on to earn my degree in Communication Arts from Oakland University in Rochester, Michigan. I worked in a variety of writing and editing positions before leaving the workforce to become a mom. My husband and I adopted our beautiful daughter in 2006.
I published my first book, “From Pain to Parenthood: A Journey Through Miscarriage to Adoption,” in May 2013. The book is non-fiction and features my personal story of what I went through to become a parent. I also offer many tips and resources for those who may be facing similar circumstances. It’s a helpful, inspiring book for people who are struggling with miscarriage/infertility, who are considering adoption or who are waiting to adopt. Those who have no experience with either of these topics have also found the book enlightening and inspiring as well. It’s ultimately a book about the power of the human spirit and the ability to follow your dreams and triumph over adversity.
I’ve written a total of three books so far. “From Pain to Parenthood” is the only one available for purchase right now. Readers can find it on amazon.com and barnesandnoble.com, as well as in select Michigan bookstores, including The Books Connection in Shelby Township, The Berkley Book Corner in Berkley, and Horizon Books in Traverse City.
My other two books are scheduled for release in 2014.
What is the name of your latest book and what inspired it?
My latest book is a fiction story called “Echoes of Paradise.” It’s a story of loss, love and the mysteries of life after death. The book is in the editing stages right now, and is scheduled for release in Winter 2014, most likely in January.
I’m very excited to bring this story to readers because it has some powerful messages and unusual events. Also, although it is fiction, the book was inspired by a few real experiences – some that I’ve personally had, and some from others. I mention these in my preface, so readers will get a brief background of what led me to write about this particular topic. I’ve taken these bizarre real-life experiences and transformed them into an interesting and intriguing story about the afterlife.
Do you have any unusual writing habits?
I typically do most of my writing in my head – long before I ever sit down at the computer to put the story together. Some of my best writing and ideas have happened while I’m either in bed trying to sleep or in the shower. Some people sing in the shower; I write!
This may sound a little odd to some, but when you think about it, the times we are most relaxed and alone with our thoughts are when we’re either in bed or in the shower.
What authors, or books have influenced you?
Some of my favorite authors are Mary Higgins Clark, Piers Anthony, Louisa May Alcott and Dr. Wayne W. Dyer. I love to read mystery/suspense novels, fantasy, science fiction and inspirational books that help to enrich my life. I really enjoyed “The Secret” by Rhonda Byrne, “To Heaven and Back” by Mary C. Neal, M.D., and “Love Beyond Life” by Joel Martin and Patricia Romanowski.
What are you working on now?
Right now I am finishing up a children’s book on embracing differences. The story is written, and I am collaborating with an illustrator – and good friend – on the artwork. I hope to release this book sometime during the upcoming school year.
What is your best method or website when it comes to promoting your books?
I don’t believe there is just one best method or web site to promote your book. The best results can only be achieved through a variety of methods. I use GoodReads, Amazon Author Central, Facebook, Twitter and Google +. I am also a member of web sites that support infertility and adoption. I’ve written blog articles for one of these sites to help other potential adoptive parents. Promoting a book is hard work, and I’ve found that the more you do, the better results you have.
Do you have any advice for new authors?
I always tell people if you want to write, just sit down and write. Don’t worry about anything but getting your words down on paper. Let your words flow freely without editing or censoring. That is the most important first step. It doesn’t matter if you don’t yet know where your story is going. Just write what you’re thinking and feeling. Too many people start out worrying about grammar, punctuation, style, etc., and want to get everything perfect on the first try. This can really interfere with the writing process and lead to writer’s block. Good writing starts with your thoughts, feelings and imagination. Often when you get something down on paper, it will later evolve into a story.
What is the best advice you have ever heard?
The best advice I’ve ever heard is that “if you can dream it, you can do it.” Before we can ever accomplish anything, we must first see it in our minds and imagine what it would be like if we achieved our goal. By envisioning our dreams, we take the important first step toward making them happen.
What are you reading now?
I’m reading “Fingerprints of God: The Search for the Science of Spirituality.” Ironically, this wasn’t a book I had ever wanted to read. I had never even heard of it until the other day when I stumbled upon it in a little store in a rural area of central Michigan. I picked it and was intrigued by the description. Since it was only $5, I thought I’d give it a try. So far, I’m finding it very interesting and well-written.
What’s next for you as a writer?
I plan to finish up my fiction and children’s books and continue blogging for adoption web sites. My biggest goal is to touch lives and inspire others with my writing. So, I will do my best to share my books and stories with as many people as possible.
What is your favorite book of all time?
My favorite book of all time is “Little Women” by Louisa May Alcott. As a young child, it really spoke to me. I think what was most appealing about this book is that it seemed real. It wasn’t a fairy tale. The characters had to face struggles, illnesses, death and challenges. Through it all, they remained strong and connected as a family. Their love for each other got them through the tough times. To me, this is what life is really all about: our connections to others and the power of love. Both can enrich and transform our lives – no matter what obstacles we encounter. “Little Women” beautifully illustrates this.
Author Websites and Profiles
Deanna Kahler Website
Deanna Kahler Amazon Profile
Deanna Kahler’s Social Media Links
Goodreads Profile
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