Tell us about yourself and how many books you have written.
I’m 21 and I live in Atlanta, Georgia. Good Nerd Hunting is my first book, my pride and joy. For years, I dreamed of writing a full-length novel. Mission accomplished!
What is the name of your latest book and what inspired it?
Good Nerd Hunting is my debut book, the first book in the Nerds, Inc. series. It’s a play on the movie title Good Will Hunting. I’ve never even seen that movie or know what it’s about, but my protagonist, Blake, must survive Nerd Hunting Season; so, it seemed right to name the first chapter Good Nerd Hunting. The original title of my book was The Nerd, the Baby, and the Toothbrush, but my beta reader, Stu, convinced me otherwise.
Do you have any unusual writing habits?
When I write my first draft, I usually have a set of characters in mind. However, I tend to create new characters out of the blue while I’m writing. I give them a backstory, unique facial features, and everything! Then, when I’m editing, I have to take them out because they drag my story. Such a pain.
What authors, or books have influenced you?
I don’t want to sound cliched, but J. K. Rowling influences me every day. It’s my dream to create a entire universe filled with unique, beloved characters that keep my readers coming back for more. I want to create the same experience I had when I read Harry Potter as a kid (I’m only 21, so I guess you could still call me a kid): the laughs, the thrills, the heartache. I want my fans to recite their favorite lines, debate who’s the best character, predict what will happen in the next book, wear shirts sporting the series’ logo. It’s not just a book to me: it’s everything.
What are you working on now?
Currently, I’m working on a prequel to the Nerds, Inc. series. When I finish it over the next month or so, I’ll give it away for free on my website. Then, I’ll work on the second book in the series. I can’t wait to thrill my readers with a must-read series prequel!
What is your best method or website when it comes to promoting your books?
I’m not sure. I’ve never promoted a book before!
Do you have any advice for new authors?
Grow some thick skin and give the people what they want. I learned this same lesson while working as a parking attendant in Atlanta. Those customers can be really mean!
What is the best advice you have ever heard?
I have no idea. That’s like asking me what my favorite anime is. It’s an impossible question to answer because there are so many possible answers!
What are you reading now?
The Story Works Guide to Writing Character by Alida Winterheimer. All great stories have great characters.
What’s next for you as a writer?
The world! I mean it. I’m going to create an empire with my books. I’ll have merch, shows, movie adaptations, video games, the works!
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?
I only need two: a book on how to survive on a deserted island and a quick guide on how to escape a deserted island. Boom!
Author Websites and Profiles
Kaila Glass Website