Tell us about yourself and how many books you have written.
I’m a New Zealand Samoan self-published author who has written 10 books: 4 self illustrated bilingual (English/Samoan) picture books of ancient Samoan stories; 5 Pasifika plays including an adaption of a Shakespearean play and a poetry collection.
What is the name of your latest book and what inspired it?
I am currently working on painting and writing a bilingual picture book called “Fale Samoa” or Samoan house which tells the story of the origins of the traditional design of Samoan houses as related by an ancient Samoan story.
Do you have any unusual writing habits?
I like to write in a quiet space usually during the day when I am most alert and focused.
What authors, or books have influenced you?
As a child, I enjoyed reading myths and legends stories from around the world. I was fascinated in understanding ideas from different cultures. I’ve also enjoyed C. S. Lewis ‘Narnia’ series as well as J. R. Tolkien’s ‘Hobbit’ series. Books such as the Bible and ‘To Kill a mockingbird’ by Harper Lee that discuss social justice issues are also important to me.
What are you working on now?
Currently have two projects started: a self illustrated bilingual (English/Samoan) picture book called “Fale Samoa” or Samoan house which retells the an ancient Samoan story of the origins of the traditional Samoan house design; coordinating and editing a community short story/poetry anthology funded by the local community board to be launched mid year and gifted to local secondary schools, educational institutions for use…
What is your best method or website when it comes to promoting your books?
Having book launches and sharing my writing with Book sellers who then promote my books on their websites where they sell directly to schools, institutions and education providers.
Do you have any advice for new authors?
If it’s meant to be, it will happen. Never give up and keep working on sharpening your craft.
What is the best advice you have ever heard?
Just do it!
What are you reading now?
Currently working on my doctorate degree and am reading a number of books simultaneously for my chapters that I’m writing.
What’s next for you as a writer?
I’m now working on community anthology i.e. short stories and poetry collection that has been funded by the local community board to be launched mid year and then gifted to the community and hopefully to be available in local libraries etc.
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?
Definitely the Bible, a definitive book and then 2 books by Augustin Kramer called ‘The Samoan Islands’ that hopefully will give me a few ideas on how to craft a canoe to get me off the island!
Author Websites and Profiles
Helen Tau’au-Filisi Website
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