Jean Neff Guthrie

Tell us about yourself and how many books you have written.
I grew up on a farm in Virginia and have a B.S. degree in Dairy Science from VA Tech. While working in Richmond, Virginia, I earned my M.S. degree in Mass Communications from VA Commonwealth University. That combination gave me a unique capacity to converse effectively with large herds of cows. Seriously, my life path has taken a number of twists and turns, but writing and speaking have always been on the trail.

In February, I published my first novel, “Mystical Aria: Seeking the Gallion Queen.” It launched as Amazon #1 New Release in Children’s American Folk Tales & Myths. A few days later, it hit Amazon #1 Best Seller in Children’s eBooks > Fairy Tales, Folk Tales & Myths > United States. I’ve gone a long way from cowgirl to best-selling author.

What is the name of your latest book and what inspired it?
I felt inspired to write “Mystical Aria: Seeking the Gallion Queen” when I first heard the voice of 12-year-old Aria Vanir during a writing media workshop. I was working on another book with entirely different characters at the time, but Aria gently nudged her way to the focal point of my creative attention. Through journaling, she told me about herself and introduced me to the other characters. Essentially, I let the characters tell their stories.

I feel passionate about creating entertaining media that inspires kids to react from love, not fear, thus bringing more peace into their lives. I believe there’s too much violence in the world, especially for youngsters. I chose to write about spiritual/religious themes of love, prosperity, infinity, and forgiveness in a “funtastic” tone to capture hearts of kids and adults. In “Mystical Aria: Seeking the Gallion Queen,” I created a girl’s version of Steven Spielberg’s “E.T.”

Since I don’t have children of my own, I want to leave a legacy of positive stories that kids enjoy reading for generations.

Do you have any unusual writing habits?
I prefer to write all first drafts by hand in an unlined notebook, preferably at my Smyrna, Georgia home in a comfy chair by a window. I quiet my mind, connect with the characters, and journal with the characters about their lives. The plot unfolds from there.

Since I work full-time as an information technology consultant, my prime creative hours are mornings, weekends, and holidays.

What authors, or books have influenced you?
C.S. Lewis, Laura Ingalls Wilder, and the Nancy Drew series.

What are you working on now?
I’m working on a sequel in the “Mystical Aria” series. It is composed of Aria’s diary entries while she’s on the superspaceship with the good aliens (Gallions) in the first book. The sequel describes Aria’s feelings and experiences at a deeper level. It also describes funny conversations and interactions she has with the aliens that aren’t covered in the first book.

What is your best method or website when it comes to promoting your books?
I used Denise Cassino, who is a specialist at helping authors reach Amazon #1 best seller status. See http://www.bestsellerservices.com/.

Do you have any advice for new authors?
Find your passion, make a commitment, and connect with your characters.

What is the best advice you have ever heard?
Do one big thing every day to write, publish, or promote your books.

What are you reading now?
I’m reading “The One Minute Millionaire” by Mark Victor Hansen and Robert G Allen.

What’s next for you as a writer?
Promoting “Mystical Aria: Seeking the Gallion Queen” and typing my hand-written draft of the sequel.

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?
“Survival Guide for Being Stranded on a Desert Island”
“Desert Island Survival for Dummies”
“What To Say When You Talk To Yourself” by Shad Helmstetter, PhD

Author Websites and Profiles
Jean Neff Guthrie Website
Jean Neff Guthrie Amazon Profile
Jean Neff Guthrie Author Profile on Smashwords

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