Interview With Author Jennifer Charleau
Tell us about yourself and how many books you have written.
Hey there, lovely souls! I’m Jennifer Charleau, and I’m thrilled to take you on a journey into the wonderful tapestry of my life. As a passionate Counselling Psychologist, CEO of Compass Counselling, and dedicated School Counsellor, I’ve had the privilege of making a positive impact in the lives of countless individuals.
But wait, there’s more! In addition to my counseling work, I’m also a published author with an impressive collection of 22 books to my name. From empowering children’s emotional health to nurturing strong family bonds, each book reflects my unwavering dedication to helping others thrive.
When I’m not immersed in the fascinating world of psychology, you’ll find me indulging in two of my greatest passions: being a devoted partner in a loving marriage that has lasted for 31 wonderful years (and counting!) and cherishing the joy of motherhood with my three incredible children. They are the beating heart that fuels my drive to make the world a better place.
Happiness, to me, is all about loving what I do. I find immense joy and fulfillment in witnessing the growth and transformation of those I have the privilege to serve. My ultimate goal is to create a ripple effect of positivity, spreading love, compassion, and resilience to all corners of the world.
So, join me on this incredible journey of self-discovery, growth, and embracing the beauty of life. Explore the pages of my books, visit my author page at www.amazon.com/author/charleaujen5050, and discover the wisdom and insights I’ve poured into each one.
Together, let’s nurture happiness, empower families, and create a world where everyone can thrive. Thank you for being a part of my story, and I can’t wait to connect with you on this beautiful journey we call life.
Sending you all my love and gratitude,
Jennifer Charleau
What is the name of your latest book and what inspired it?
The Covenant of Water
Do you have any unusual writing habits?
Most times when I sit down to write, I immerse myself in a symphony of melodies, for music is the gateway to unlocking the depths of my creativity. As I don my noise-canceling headphones, the outside world fades away, leaving only the rhythmic beats and enchanting harmonies to guide my words.
What authors, or books have influenced you?
Self-Help Authors:
Brené Brown – “The Gifts of Imperfection”
Dale Carnegie – “How to Win Friends and Influence People”
Eckhart Tolle – “The Power of Now”
Louise Hay – “You Can Heal Your Life”
Malcolm Gladwell – “Outliers: The Story of Success”
Christian Authors:
C.S. Lewis – “Mere Christianity”
Max Lucado – “Grace: More Than We Deserve, Greater Than We Imagine”
Joyce Meyer – “Battlefield of the Mind”
Timothy Keller – “The Reason for God: Belief in an Age of Skepticism”
Sarah Young – “Jesus Calling: Enjoying Peace in His Presence”
Children’s Authors:
Dr. Seuss – “Oh, the Places You’ll Go!”
Roald Dahl – “Matilda”
J.K. Rowling – “Harry Potter and the Sorcerer’s Stone”
Shel Silverstein – “The Giving Tree”
Maurice Sendak – “Where the Wild Things Are”
Psychology Authors:
Sigmund Freud – “The Interpretation of Dreams”
Carl Jung – “Man and His Symbols”
Viktor Frankl – “Man’s Search for Meaning”
Daniel Kahneman – “Thinking, Fast and Slow”
Oliver Sacks – “The Man Who Mistook His Wife for a Hat”
What are you working on now?
Another children’s self-help book on “Stress Management”
What is your best method or website when it comes to promoting your books?
Promoting my book has been an exhilarating journey filled with excitement and anticipation. As an author deeply invested in sharing my words with the world, I’ve discovered some effective strategies to spread the word and connect with readers on a personal level.
First and foremost, I’ve built an online presence that reflects my passion and expertise. Through my author website and blog, I have a platform to showcase my book, engage with readers, and share updates about my writing journey. It’s a space where I can express my creative voice and connect with like-minded individuals who appreciate my work.
In addition to my online presence, I’ve embraced the power of social media. Platforms like Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, and LinkedIn have become invaluable tools for me to reach a wider audience. By consistently sharing captivating excerpts, behind-the-scenes glimpses, and engaging content, I’ve been able to foster a community of enthusiastic readers who eagerly anticipate my book’s release.
Another strategy I’ve employed is hosting engaging book launch events. Whether in-person or virtual, these events serve as a fantastic opportunity to create excitement and generate buzz. From interactive author Q&A sessions to exclusive giveaways, I ensure that my book launch events leave a lasting impression and make readers feel connected to both the story and me as the author.
Furthermore, I understand the significance of book reviews in building credibility and enticing potential readers. I actively seek out honest reviews from readers, encouraging them to share their thoughts on platforms like Goodreads, Amazon, and other book review websites. These reviews not only provide valuable feedback but also help others make informed decisions about my book.
Ultimately, promoting my book is about building meaningful connections and sharing my passion with the world. Through a combination of online presence, social media engagement, captivating events, and genuine reader reviews, I’m confident in my ability to reach a wide audience and make a lasting impact with my work. Together, we can embark on a literary adventure that touches hearts and sparks imaginations.
Do you have any advice for new authors?
As a new author myself, I will say, first and foremost, embrace the “Coffee & Craziness” method. Writing requires a healthy dose of caffeine and a touch of madness. So, grab your favorite mug, fill it to the brim with the elixir of creativity, and let the wild ideas flow. Just be prepared for your characters to start having impromptu dance parties in your imagination (yes, they have moves).
Next, when writer’s block pays you a visit, don’t panic. Instead, put on your favorite tunes and have a dance-off with that pesky block. Show it who’s boss! Let your flailing limbs and wacky dance moves shake loose the words trapped in your mind. Trust me, the rhythm will awaken your muse and inspire you to break free from the block’s clutches.
Now, let’s talk about the art of “procaffeination.” It’s a real thing (or at least it should be). Whenever you find yourself procrastinating, just declare proudly, “I am engaging in the sacred art of procaffeination!” Take a sip of your coffee, stare out the window, and let the caffeinated inspiration fuel your creativity. You’ll be amazed at how your novel magically comes together with a little bit of coffee-induced motivation.
Oh, and don’t forget to create your very own “Wall of Weird.” Surround yourself with quirky quotes, peculiar artwork, or even a picture of your beloved pet rocking a funky hat. Let this wall of weirdness remind you that writing is all about embracing the absurd, the unconventional, and the wonderfully strange. It’s in those moments of whimsy that your imagination truly thrives.
So, my fellow new authors, remember to dance with the madness, sip your coffee, conquer writer’s block, and celebrate the glorious weirdness of your creative spirit. May your writing journey be filled with laughter, inspiration, and the joy of bringing your stories to life. Happy writing, my friends!
What is the best advice you have ever heard?
DO YOU !!
What are you reading now?
Currently, I’m diving deep into the ocean of knowledge, exploring empowering texts that ignite the flame of motivation within me. From timeless classics to modern works of inspiration, I’m immersing myself in the wisdom of motivational literature. Each page I encounter becomes a steppingstone on my journey towards personal growth and empowerment.
What’s next for you as a writer?
As a writer, my journey knows no bounds, for the path of creativity is ever-evolving and filled with endless possibilities. So, what’s next for me? Well, I envision a future brimming with new horizons and exciting ventures.
First and foremost, I strive to continue honing my craft, exploring different genres and writing styles. The world is a tapestry of stories waiting to be woven, and I yearn to delve into uncharted territories, crafting narratives that captivate and inspire.
Additionally, I’m passionate about connecting with fellow writers and readers. Collaboration and community are essential aspects of the writing journey, and I aim to foster meaningful connections through workshops, conferences, and online platforms. Sharing experiences, exchanging ideas, and learning from one another are the building blocks of growth and inspiration.
Furthermore, I aspire to expand my reach and touch the lives of even more individuals through my words. Whether it’s through publishing new works, contributing to anthologies, or exploring other creative mediums, I aim to make a positive impact, leaving a trail of inspiration and thought-provoking storytelling in my wake.
Ultimately, the journey of a writer is a lifelong quest for self-expression and connection. So, as I step into the unknown, I embrace the uncertainty, fueled by the sheer joy of storytelling. The path may twist and turn, but with every word penned, I embrace the adventure, ready to embrace the next chapter and see where the winds of creativity take me.
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?
“Pride and Prejudice” by Jane Austen: A timeless romance novel with witty social commentary, exploring themes of love, societal expectations, and personal growth.
“To Kill a Mockingbird” by Harper Lee: A powerful coming-of-age story that addresses racial injustice and moral courage, offering profound insights into empathy and human nature.
“The Alchemist” by Paulo Coelho: A philosophical and inspirational tale about following one’s dreams, discovering the true meaning of life, and finding one’s own personal legend.
Author Websites and Profiles
Jennifer Charleau Amazon Profile
Jennifer Charleau’s Social Media Links