Interview With Author Toby LeBlanc
Tell us about yourself and how many books you have written.
Originally from South Louisiana, I moved to Austin, TX on a whim in 2007. While I will always call Louisiana home, Austin opened its arms wide to me, lined up its fabled stars, and settled me with the best family and job that most people could only dream of. But even then, there was still itch that wasn’t scratched. Writing had always been in the background of my life. I’d written my first short story in the sixth grade. Then there were little projects and classes here and there. But on New Year’s Eve 2011, while the group of friends I was with starting listing their resolutions, out popped the words “I want to take my writing more seriously.” Some more stars must have aligned because Dark Roux came out from Unsolicited Press in 2022 and Soaked will arrive from Cornerstone Press in February 2025.
What is the name of your latest book and what inspired it?
Soaked seemed like a simple enough title for how climate change will affect South Louisiana. If you go there now, you will likely walk away with some moisture attached to you. Whether it be rain, sea spray, sweat, or even Bourbon Street runoff, folks are always looking for ways to dry themselves off. With the current climate predictions, that drenching will likely only get worse. I imagined a world where competing with water, while still needing it, was part of everyday life. However, the title story also has special significance for the idea of being “soaked.” You’ll have to read it to find out what it is.
Do you have any unusual writing habits?
I think what’s unusual about my writing habits is that I don’t have any. Writing is often an act of theft for me. There will be moments in an evening or during the day when an idea plops itself where I can see it and I feverish start jotting things down. In the few moments when life slows down (like right now), I start stitching together into something (hopefully) coherent. I’m afraid I have no other magic than that.
What authors, or books have influenced you?
I can easily start this list with Tim Gautreaux. He is a Cajun man (like me) who writes about Louisiana and its people. He studied with Walker Percy and carries his legacy onward. Another Louisiana author who speaks to my heart is Ernest J. Gaines. He lived most of his life not too far from where I grew up, writing about the injustices that still play out in our corner of the world. There are two women who I also look to to help me see my characters, and myself, better. Toni Morrison is a powerhouse in literature and social justice. Another name that I hope with join her (since she’s already won two National Book Awards) is Jesmin Ward. I had the privilege to see her speak here in Austin and I can confirm she is the real deal.
What are you working on now?
There is a novel floating out in the literary world on submission currently. It is about two neighbors who have to face the racism they’ve been surrounded by their whole lives and learn to trust each other so they can escape the aftermath of Katrina. I’ve also just finished a first draft on what I believe will be a novella. It’s another book about climate change, but involves Mars travel, parenting, Antarctica, and horticulture. I know it sounds like a lot to fit into less than 60,000 words. But I promise it all comes together.
What is your best method or website when it comes to promoting your books?
I recently listed Soaked as a Goodreads Giveaway and 3665 people signed up. I’m aware these does not all turn into purchases or even reviews, but that seemed like a good number of people to take notice and have it on their to be read list. Aside from that, I’ve really liked working with Shepherd.com. Aside from being able to talk about books with other people who like the same books, it’s just a fun, intuitive site.
Do you have any advice for new authors?
I’m afraid the only advice I have is something you’ve heard before: “Write through it.” When you get stuck…write through it. When you want to give up…write through it. When you get rejections…write through it. This is a numbers game. Eventually someone will take notice of your work. Until then…write through it. Because no matter what happens, writing through always makes you a better writer.
What is the best advice you have ever heard?
“Write scared.” I’m terrible at remembering where quotes come from, but that one stuck with me. Of course this is essential for a horror writer, but all writers will be writing only about “safe” things with “safe” characters in “safe” places unless we feel worried about who will read this while we write. That’s how I know I’ve found the “secret sauce,” the essence of a story. When I’m scared when I’m writing I know I’m finally telling the truth.
What are you reading now?
I’m in the middle of Braiding Sweetgrass by Robin Wall Kimmerer. I’ve heard so much about this book. It truly is a new way at looking at the world and where we fit in it. She distills millenia of indigenous wisdom down so it can be accessible.
What’s next for you as a writer?
I’ve been considering a follow-up (not necessarily a sequel) to Dark Roux, my first novel. In it I’d like to focus on how Cajuns commodified our culture right out from underneath us. Even thought much of my writing is focused around Louisiana, where I have experienced my greatest sense of place, I’ve spent much time in San Antonio recently. I learned it is the exact same age as New Orleans (founded 1718), and it is equally enchanting. I’d like to write more about that place. Maybe some historical fiction?
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?
One book would need to be Horizons by Barry Lopez. Only he could make being on a stranded island an experience of wonder. I’d need to take one of Tim Gautreaux’s books. Any will do. They will help me remember who I was before the island. Lastly, I’d like to take Where the Wild Things Are. While Gautreaux will remind me of who I was, Sendak will remind me of who I’m becoming.
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