Tell us about yourself and how many books you have written.
When people ask me what kind of writing I do, I say the short answer is everything but journalism. I’ve got a long history of script writing (film, video, animation and theater). The transition to novel writing was (mostly) easy as I had lots of experience with structure, character, plotting and dialogue. A long held apprehension around fiction was that I would have to describe the sky and clouds. Where I got that idea, I don’t know! At some point I realized it wasn’t absolutely essential; that if I didn’t want to describe the sky and clouds I didn’t have to. I heard a similar story from a woman who wanted to be a vet since she was a child. But her father said that while it was a worthy goal, he just couldn’t see her lifting a cow. So she gave up the dream until she was in her 30’s when she realized that vets don’t have to lift cows! So she want to back to college and made her dream come true.
What is the name of your latest book and what inspired it?
My new novel, The Disappearing Shore was inspired by two things. First, the unprecedented situation we find ourselves in with respect to climate change and other environmental challenges. Second, a secret told to me by an organizer who knows the “big names” in climate activism. He said that privately they say there’s little hope while publicly they they present a face of determined optimism. The writer in me realized that while they were prudent in not expressing their innermost fears publicly, I could do that job for them in a heightened dramatic format. Breaking taboos and revealing secrets is a job I take seriously!
Do you have any unusual writing habits?
The only unusual aspect of my writing is that I tend to get ideas and figure out problems when I’m around water – bathing and doing the dishes. Other than that, writing is much like any other job. Show up, sit down and make something happen.
What authors, or books have influenced you?
I’m influenced by all kinds of writers – authors, film scriptwriters, song writers, playwrights. I appreciate writers who serve the work, who don’t call attention to themselves and flaunt their style.
What are you working on now?
I have another novel in the works that still taking shape.
What is your best method or website when it comes to promoting your books?
I’m still looking into venues but Awesome Gang has been great to work with.
Do you have any advice for new authors?
Keep writing, stay on top of changes in publishing and avoid adverbs.
What is the best advice you have ever heard?
Writer, George Orwell noted that people tend to rely on Latin derived words when they’re being evasive. Anglo Saxon derived words are punchier and to the point. Author John Braine observed that some objects and settings are “quick” while others are “dead”. By quick he meant vital, with a felt presence. Something dead, even something inanimate was lacking in presence or interest. These are subtle, often surprising qualities that help writers infuse their work with vitality and purpose.
What are you reading now?
Aftermath, a mystery by British/Canadian writer Peter Robinson.
What’s next for you as a writer?
Another novel.
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, The Complete Works of Shakespeare, and How To Survive on a Desert Island.
Author Websites and Profiles
Roberta Park Website
Roberta Park’s Social Media Links
Twitter Account