Andreé Robinson-Neal got bit by the
writing bug in the 1970s and despite a career in education has never been cured
of her penchant for speculative fiction. Find her at http://starvingactivist.com She writes
under the name AR Neal, who will hopefully one day be identified as a famous
NaNoWriMo participant.
How many books have you written?
I have published one novella, one
collection of short stories, and one novel. I also write flash fiction on my
blog and have a flash fiction novel written and awaiting review/editing, which
should happen sometime in August of this year.
How much of yourself is hidden in the characters in the
book?
I think there is some of my
attitude in every character in the book. I think if I could be one character in
After, it would be Uncle Vern – he’s the most feisty.
Do you travel to do research or for inspiration? Can you
share some special places with us?
Since I work in education, I am all
about the research. I typically have the internet open, along with tons of
books and articles as I write. I would love to travel, but work and other
responsibilities don’t allow.
What do you think is the greatest lesson you’ve learned
about writing so far? What advice can you give new writers?
The greatest lesson about writing
is one that I knew when I first started as a child, but forgot as life got in
the way: keep writing. No matter what, it is important for writers to write
regularly, even if it’s not on a major work like a book. The action of writing
is important – just like working out is important to keep physical muscles in
shape, writing keeps the related mental muscles working.
Where do you store ideas for later use: in your head, in a
notebook, or on a spreadsheet?
I keep story ideas just about
everywhere. I have multiple notebooks, sticky notes, pads, and electronic
documents. I use Scrivener for more detailed organization of my stories and
books because it allows me to keep a running log of research materials
(articles, links to appropriate websites, and such). I try keeping story ideas
in my head, but they get lost in there.
Can you tell us your future writing goals/projects?
I have a flash fiction novel
awaiting editing and I have a number of partially completed possible novels. My
next goal is to connect with a literary agent. I am also developing a sequel to
After.
Are your books available in print and ebook formats? (please
provide the buy link for easy reader accessibility)
Yes! All my books are available. My
novella, Adventures in Cargo City (http://goo.gl/BFIvsi)
and novel, After (http://goo.gl/VKGyBg) are
available at Amazon in print and eBook formats and the collection of short
stories, From Reality’s Edge Volume One (http://goo.gl/1rJNve),
is available on FastPencil.
Good luck with all endeavors, Andree'!
