Tell us about yourself and how many books you have written.
What is the name of your latest book and what inspired it?
My latest book is Birth of the Anima: Ancient Language of the Earth Book One.
The idea for the Ancient Language of the Earth trilogy began as a question. I was pursuing a Master’s in Environmental Humanities, and my course work involved a lot of depressing research about the ecological crisis we find ourselves in. I often wondered how, and why, humans became disconnected from the natural world that sustains us. One night, I wrote in my journal, what would it feel like to live fully, truly, as a human animal? The concept of the Anima grew from there.
Do you have any unusual writing habits?
I’m not sure how unusual this may be, but I do light a candle at the beginning of each writing session.
What authors, or books have influenced you?
The most influential books I’ve read thus far include Linda Hogan’s Dwellings, Terry Tempest William’s When Women Were Birds, N.K. Jemisin’s The Fifth Season, all of Tolkien’s work, and Marie Kondo’s The Life-Changing Magic of Tidying Up.
What are you working on now?
Book two in the Ancient Language of the Earth trilogy!
Do you have any advice for new authors?
Focus on honing your craft and establishing a consistent writing habit. Stay playful and curious and take risks.
What is the best advice you have ever heard?
Chapter nine in the Tao Te Ching: “Fill your bowl to the brim and it will spill. Keep sharpening your knife and it will blunt. Chase after money and security and your heart will never unclench. Care about people’s approval and you will be their prisoner. Do your work, then step back. The only path to serenity.” (According to the Stephen Mitchell translation.)
What are you reading now?
I’m reading The Song of Achilles by Madeline Miller, as well as Thinking Body, Dancing Mind by Chungliang Al Huang and Jerry Lynch.
What’s next for you as a writer?
Book two in the Ancient Language of the Earth trilogy!
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’d bring a guide to the island’s flora and fauna, a first aid instructional manual, a book containing survival tips and techniques, and Life of Pi.
Author Websites and Profiles
Kelsey K. Sather Website
Kelsey K. Sather Amazon Profile