Tell us about yourself and how many books you have written.
I began writing in 2004, when my 6 year old daughter, Anna, died. She was my third child to die and I felt it was time to tell my story. That story was In Faithfulness, He Afflicted Me and it was published in 2008. An extension of that story, He Heard Hannah (which I wrote with 911 Dispatcher, Courtney Becker), was published in 2012.
Since then, I’ve been enjoying writing fiction. Ingrid, was my first novel. It was created with illustrations (by Abigail Kraft) and a soundtrack (by Jared Kraft). This was the beginning of New Wrinkle Publishing–which we created to publish our books in this unique format. Our newest release is Archie of Outlandish, which was released in July 2016.
What is the name of your latest book and what inspired it?
Archie of Outlandish began as a children’s illustrated book about a little boy who was born in a tent and preferred spending his days underneath things (forts, tables, etc). This inspiration began to come to life in illustrative form by my daughter (and artist), Abigail Kraft.
We moved many different places with the story and eventually decided to transform it into a love story about a young man who lives in a town called Outlandish and has spent his life underneath umbrellas and lowered ceilings due to a phobia of sorts.
Archie meets Tallie, a photographer, who is drawn to him and his ever-present umbrella. She only wants to photograph him, but destiny has brought Tallie to Outlandish for much more than a photograph.
Do you have any unusual writing habits?
I whisper almost all of my words as I write. I can determine the flow of the words better when I say them out loud.
What authors, or books have influenced you?
I wasn’t a big reader growing up and most of the books I read as an adult (before I began writing) were written by L.M. Montgomery, Jane Austen, C.S. Lewis, Laura Ingalls Wilder, and a huge variety of children’s authors (Barbara Cooney, Beatrix Potter, Shel Silverstein, Doctor Seuss, Robert McCloskey, Margaret Wise Brown, and a gazillion more). So, I guess I would have to say I was inspired by those writers… the ones who catered to the young or young at heart and enjoyed seeing the lighter side of life alongside the complex. I have a special love for telling a story that communicates the value of good character, courage, and perseverance. I also want my readers to be inspired to look into the hearts of those around them. What’s on the outside doesn’t necessarily depict what’s on the inside.
What are you working on now?
I’m in the process of dreaming up my next world. I’m somewhere between sci-fi and fantasy… perhaps a mix up of both.
What is your best method or website when it comes to promoting your books?
I promote by using KDP Book promotions and use Facebook, Twitter, Instagram and newsletters to keep in touch with my readers. New Wrinkle Publishing also has a blog in the works.
Do you have any advice for new authors?
I’ve only published four books, so I consider myself a new(er) author. But, I have grown through every book experience and I do have a little piece of advice. Do your best work every single time. If you don’t think it’s fantastic, it’s not. Don’t publish it until you’re sure it is.
What is the best advice you have ever heard?
I can’t remember where I heard it, but someone said to read what you write out loud. If it reads well out loud, it will read well silently. This comes naturally to me, and it does make a tremendous difference.
What are you reading now?
I’m almost finished with Harry Potter and the Order of the Phoenix. J.K. Rowling is one of my favorite authors (and this is my favorite Harry Potter book so far).
What’s next for you as a writer?
More writing and creating with my team at New Wrinkle Publishing. We have big dreams and are excited about each and every project that is to come!
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?
The Bible (full of wisdom)
And my four books (full of memories, lessons and imaginations)
Author Websites and Profiles
Lynnette Kraft Website
Lynnette Kraft Amazon Profile
Lynnette Kraft’s Social Media Links
Goodreads Profile
Facebook Profile
Twitter Account