Interview With Author Theresa Nellis
Tell us about yourself and how many books you have written.
I knew I wanted to be an author in first grade, but I was a struggling reader (thus, a struggling writer). I was pulled out for specialized reading instruction. With a lot of support from my mother and teachers, I mastered the written code. I obtained a Ph.D., became a teacher, and later published the Keeper of the Mirror 3-part fantasy series.
Now, I share this with my students so they can see the value of perseverance. That’s also why I wrote this series.
What is the name of your latest book and what inspired it?
I am in the editing process for The School for the Magically Insane: The Lion’s Tooth Year One. My inspiration draws from my love of fantasies and my dark, snarky personality.
Do you have any unusual writing habits?
About 75% of the time, the snarkiness just hits my head like a baseball at Yankee Stadium (well, before all the fanfare, lawsuits, and nets). Besides, all the best teachers are a bit crazy—or is that just something I tell myself? After talking with tiny humans all day, the mutual brain training is quite evident—don’t you think?
The dedication for my first book reads as follows:
For My Students
—who were the inspiration for my dark humor—sorry!
What authors, or books have influenced you?
Of course, Harry Potter! If you Google my name, you’ll also see me donning a robe and glasses at the opening of Diagon Alley at Universal Studios.
What are you working on now?
I am in the editing process for The School for the Magically Insane: The Lion’s Tooth Year One. I expect to launch this book in early 2023.
What is your best method or website when it comes to promoting your books?
As a new author, I’m still working on this part. However, the world of indie authors is amazing! This community pulls together to support each other in incredible ways.
Do you have any advice for new authors?
Keep writing and don’t take yourself too seriously.
What is the best advice you have ever heard?
“You can always edit a bad page. You can’t edit a blank page.”
― Jodi Picoult
What are you reading now?
“Magical Compass” by Jaymin Eve
What’s next for you as a writer?
I enjoy writing for young audiences because I have a passion for teaching kids how to read in exciting and innovative ways. I have received feedback about this from parents. Although my books are intended for both male and female readers, I have received a lot of great feedback from parents of boys. Their reluctant readers just don’t enjoy reading. This series—and all its snarkiness—was right up their alley. Parents, I’ve got your back on this one. Keep your kids reading all the way through to the end of Book 3!
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?
Oh, you’re killing me! I guess one book should be an informational book about how to build a boat. The other three would be fantasies. I love books that grab my imagination and take me to new places. You know, those books you don’t want to read the endings for because you don’t want the magic to stop. Those kind of books!
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