Tell us about yourself and how many books you have written.
I have four middle grade (8-12 year old) books published with a fifth set to come out in February. Three of the books are historical fictions, one is a fantasy, and one a Native American ranching tale.
What is the name of your latest book and what inspired it?
WILDFIRE was written when I lived in the Black Hills of South Dakota and was a teacher, many whom were Lakota Sioux. There is a toughness which I admire to both the land and the people of The Hills. I have tried to depict the Native American contemporary culture and their marvelous humor.
Do you have any unusual writing habits?
I eat out of jars when I write. Bowls are too wide for my workspace.
What authors, or books have influenced you?
Oldies: C.S. Lewis, J.R.R. Tolkien, George MacDonald
Newies (kids’ authors): Shannon Hale, Gary Paulsen, and hundreds of others.
What are you working on now?
A time travel for kids.
What is your best method or website when it comes to promoting your books?
Why, Awesome Gang is the best website when it comes to promoting my books!
Do you have any advice for new authors?
Write and finish your story. Then revise it about a hundred times. Then let some people you’re not related to look at it. Wait a year and start work on another book. Then, take another look at that “sitting” book.
What is the best advice you have ever heard?
Don’t give up.
What are you reading now?
I multi-level read, different genres, age groups, etc. and always have 3-5 going at a time — kids books, adult SF, adult non-fiction, historical fiction, folk-fairy tales, research for my WIP.
What’s next for you as a writer?
More stories, naturally.
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 — chuck full of interesting stories, history, and thought provoking words.
The Lord of the Rings trilogy (Does that count as 3?)
Author Websites and Profiles
Sandy Carlson Website
Sandy Carlson Amazon Profile
Sandy Carlson’s Social Media Links
Goodreads Profile
Facebook Profile