Interview With Author May Oldchess
Tell us about yourself and how many books you have written.
I’ve written over 16 books, mostly twisty crime stories (my mom is my biggest fan – and toughest critic!).
But Sophie Red Dot is something special. It started when my daughter Charlie told me, “I want a story that’s modern and just goes BOOM!” So I put aside the murder mysteries for a while and wrote something magical, wild, and full of heart – just for her (and now, for you!).
We live in Zurich with our three cats: Cookie, Cupcake, and Muffin (yes, those are their real names 😸), who may or may not have inspired some of the characters in the book.
What is the name of your latest book and what inspired it?
My latest book is called Sophie Red Dot – The Book of Magical Creatures. It all started with a little cat we bought in Paris – not a real one, but a tiny, mysterious cat figure we found in an Asian shop. We named it Taro, and somehow, that little cat sparked a whole magical story.
From there, everything grew: secret doors, magical creatures, and a brave girl named Sophie Red Dot. It became a wild adventure inspired by my daughter’s imagination, our family travels, and a lot of laughs (and cat fur) along the way!
Do you have any unusual writing habits?
I like writing in bed in the morning when nobody is awake between 3 a.m. and 6 a.m. :S
What authors, or books have influenced you?
I read a lot – so it is a wild mix.
What are you working on now?
Sophie Red Dot – The Tear of the Dragons and a Book called Up on the Island.
What is your best method or website when it comes to promoting your books?
I am just figuring it out. So lot to learn.
Do you have any advice for new authors?
Write. Just write.
What is the best advice you have ever heard?
Breath. Just breath. Which can be translated to: Write. Just write.
What are you reading now?
Geek Girl. My daughter loves it and me too.
What’s next for you as a writer?
Sophie Red Dot – The Boy of the Endless Sky. And learn how to market my book.
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?
A Mickey Mouse Comic. Lord of the Rings and all the books from Elias Canetti.
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