Tell us about yourself and how many books you have written.
A Far Journey is my first foray into fiction writing. I am an English teacher who teaches writing. I am currently writing my second book called Dreams of Dust.
What is the name of your latest book and what inspired it?
A Far Journey deals with that journey we all must take back when we lose a loved one. It is a hard and rocky journey. The story is set partly in my home state and recalls some of the elements of growing up there–the little steam train, the ampitheater in the park, the morals and culture of small town Oklahoma.
Do you have any unusual writing habits?
Stories sort themselves out in the back of my mind while I deal with other things. When they are ready to be written, I sit down and write.
What authors, or books have influenced you?
When I was a young and foolish reader, I set out to read ALL the books in the library. Silly me–of course I couldn’t. I’ve read everything from Asimov and Heinlein and Stephen King, to Louisa Mae Alcott and Poe and Mary Stewart. My tastes are eclectic. I can’t say that any one writer has influenced me–perhaps they all have.
What are you working on now?
Dreams of Dust is in the process of being written. It will be set in the dust bowl and will deal with the dreams of the characters, who wish to see them fulfilled, or who haven’t quite made it yet. The characters are coming into awareness. We will see where they will take me.
What is your best method or website when it comes to promoting your books?
I am new to the whole book promotion thing. I am learning to use Twitter and I have an author page on Facebook. I have also purchased advertising in a local trade paper.
Do you have any advice for new authors?
Being a new author myself, I guess the watchwords would be not to be discouraged and be persistent. Learn from anyone who has anything to teach you about marketing. Revise, rewrite, revise again.
What is the best advice you have ever heard?
Write on! You can do anything you set your mind to do.
What are you reading now?
Non-fiction books on the dust bowl for research for my new book.
What’s next for you as a writer?
I will be trying to get this next book finished. After that, we will see.
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?
Let’s see… only four? I’m disappointed. I would bring a Bible, an instruction book on survival on desert islands, and a James Michener novel or two. Perhaps I would bring a couple of Jean Auel’s Clan of the Cave Bear series or a Harry Potter book or two.
Author Websites and Profiles
Ruth Ramsey Website
Ruth Ramsey’s Social Media Links
Facebook Profile