Interview With Author Hannah Rowen Fry
Tell us about yourself and how many books you have written.
Hi, I’m Hannah, and I’m fairly new to the world of writing! I just released my first devotional book, “The Way of Gratitude” and was an active blogger for about six months before that. My background is a unique combination of church ministry and restaurant management; I have been able to study the Bible professionally but also worked outside of a local church context. As a result, God has positioned me with a unique perspective on faith and spiritual growth in both worlds. Aside from who I am as a writer and speaker, I love all things Disney, Taylor Swift, and being outside in God’s beautiful creation.
What is the name of your latest book and what inspired it?
“The Way of Gratitude: 21 Devotions on Goodness, Gratitude, and Wonder” was inspired by my time on Sabbatical, taking a break from all work to just seek Jesus and abide in him. Gratitude comes from a place deep within us, and this book is designed to help the reader interact with Scripture in a new way to think beyond thankfulness and develop a lifestyle of gratitude.
Do you have any unusual writing habits?
I love writing after going for a walk or moving my body in some way. Physical activity gets my creative juices flowing! Well, that or caffeine!
What authors, or books have influenced you?
The most influential book I read this year was “The War of Art” by Steven Pressfield. His breakdown of the resistance we face when creating helped me articulate feelings and thought patterns I didn’t know I had and work through what hinders my progress. Other than this, “Ruthless Trust” by Brennan Manning has impacted my life in many seasons as a believer, writer, and person. I continually go back to it every few years as a reminder of who I am and who God has created me to be.
What are you working on now?
I’m working on my next devotional book and learning more ins and outs of the industry.
What is your best method or website when it comes to promoting your books?
Having an email list of supporters has been critical in promoting my book. They have given me helpful feedback all throughout the writing process and provided a clearly defined audience for me to write to.
Do you have any advice for new authors?
Just sit down and write. You don’t have to have an agenda or a goal when you’re beginning; just get in the practice of writing regularly and see what happens! My “Today I” blog series came out of this open-ended writing time and has become of my favorite, most consistent places of creativity.
What is the best advice you have ever heard?
“Imperfect progress is better than perfect procrastination” by author and coach Amy Kemp.
What are you reading now?
Currently I’m in four books – “Overcoming Underearning” by Barbara Stanny, “Deep & Wide” by Andy Stanley, “Emotionally Healthy Discipleship” by Peter Scazzero, and “Behind Her Eyes” by Sarah Pinborough. The first three are for learning and growing, the last is just for fun!
What’s next for you as a writer?
I’d like to work toward publishing with a big name publisher in the next few years. The next step there is to pitch a proposal to a literary agent and see what we can work together to bring into the world.
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?
Aside from any of the books I’ve already mentioned in other questions, I would bring a copy of the Bible, one of the Harry Potter books, and something with a lot of pictures… I’d have to think about that one for a bit!
Author Websites and Profiles
Hannah Rowen Fry Amazon Profile
Hannah Rowen Fry’s Social Media Links