Tell us about yourself and how many books you have written.
This is my first book, although I’ve been writing articles on health and self-care for nearly a decade. I spent years struggling with anorexia. In Hungry for Life, I take readers through my skewed thoughts and behaviors, so that you get a rare inside view of the often misunderstood mind of an anorexia sufferer. Readers learn how I went from a well-loved child, to a 69-pound college graduate on her death bed, and finally to a healthcare practitioner and teacher of wellness and self-care.
What is the name of your latest book and what inspired it?
Several years ago, I made a quick decision to begin scribbling down my story. I wasn’t sure why at the time, though it was partially an attempt to make sense of my turbulent past, and a quest for catharsis. But in retrospect, I believe what compelled me to write was the frustration over feeling misunderstood with regards to my illness. I was driven by a burning need to cut through all the misconceptions and assumptions surrounding anorexia, and reveal the complexity and seriousness of this mental disorder.
Do you have any unusual writing habits?
Since this story was difficult to for me to write, I had the habit of crying while typing, which was a problem because my tears blurred my vision and I couldn’t see the screen!
What authors, or books have influenced you?
I was inspired by the memoirs of Michael J. Fox, Steve Martin, and J. D. Vance. I also learned a lot from Stephen King’s On Writing.
What are you working on now?
I am writing articles for Recovery Warriors, and I am about to begin work on my Hungry for Life audiobook!
What is your best method or website when it comes to promoting your books?
Getting reviews and selling books on Amazon.com. It pays to increase your ranking on Amazon so you get more exposure.
Do you have any advice for new authors?
Do what you’re passionate about. The laundry and the dishes can wait.
What is the best advice you have ever heard?
That’s a tough one. Probably my husband’s advice – close the laptop and go to bed.
What are you reading now?
The Caped Crusade: Batman and the Rise of Nerd Culture. I’m actually listening to the audiobook read by the author, Glen Weldon. He is hilarious and his impersonations are impeccable.
What’s next for you as a writer?
I’m thinking of making a collection of essays out of my many massage therapy and health-related articles.
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?
How to Survive on a Deserted Island by Tim O’Shei
Boatbuilding for Beginners (and Beyond) by Jim Michalak
And perhaps The Magicians by Lev Grossman, for when I need a break from surviving and boatbuilding.
Author Websites and Profiles
Rachel Richards Website
Rachel Richards Amazon Profile
Rachel Richards’s Social Media Links
Goodreads Profile
Facebook Profile
Twitter Account