Now that That Book I Wrote That One Time is coming out TOMORROW, I decided to finally answer these questions myself. So here I go:
1. At age eight, what did you want to be when you grew up? And at age eighteen? And while you’re at it, what about at age twenty-eight?
Eight: a teacher
Eighteen: a dental hygienist
Twenty-eight: an author
2. Which Breakfast-Club-style label would have best fit your teenage self?
The Extroverted Introvert.
3. What are some of your superstitions and/or phobias?
I am afraid of scary movies. And by scary, I mean just about anything resembling horror or suspense in any fashion. They give me nightmares and sometimes make me afraid of the dark for years. Also, seeing tempered glass all broken but still held together in a pane makes me cry (worst-case scenario) or feel itchy on the head(best-case scenario).
4. Without giving away too much from your book, which character or scene are you the most pleased about having created, and why?
Hands down, Seth. In him, I feel like I created a character who comes a long way in the course of the book. The guy on page 1 would never have done what the guy on page 295 did. (And, yes, The Thing that Happens on Page 295 is my favorite moment in the book. But DON'T look up page 295 unless you've already read the book. If you read the scene out of context, it won't mean anything to you and then you'll have spoiled yourself and then we'll both be sad!)
5. Was there any certain music that inspired you while you were writing this book, or is there a song that could serve as your protagonist’s theme song?
Was there ever! Seth's theme song is "It's Been Awhile" by Staind. I know, I know! But it really, really fits when he's depressed and stuff.
6. What’s up next for you as a writer?
I'm working on more contemporary YA! And this is an exclusive! Right here! My three in-progress manuscripts deal with 1) teen marriage, 2) sexual abuse and 3) suburban gangs. [/Bringing the Awkward. Like I do]
7. And, now, the most important question of all: Beatles or Elvis? Please support your answer. ;-)
So here's the thing. I was big into the Beatles when I was in my early-20s. Then I decided I was over them. Then I got waaaaay into Elvis. Then I watched the movie ACROSS THE UNIVERSE and started to love the Beatles again. And . . . I kind of feel like I prefer the Beatles to Elvis. So Beatles! That's my answer. Until I change my mind again.
8. Okay, your turn. Do you have a question you’d like me to ask my Magic 8-Ball on your behalf? (I’m telling you, this thing is scarily accurate! Well, except for when it’s lying.)
You don't have to tell ME how scary-accurate it is! My question is: Will I eat a veggie corn dog from Hot Dog on a Stick tomorrow?
Hooray!!!