Interview with Michelle Path

Interview with Michelle Path


What genre do you write and why?
I write children’s books. I originally wanted to write fantasy books but found myself drawn to writing books for children. I enjoy the challenge of coming up with unique characters and ideas to engage children with. It isn’t really that different from writing fantasy books as I incorporate fantasy into my stories anyway. I also use positive messages in my books including caring for the environment and animals. I want to make a difference in young people’s lives through my books as well as encourage children to like reading.

What advice do you have for other writers?
I think the most important reason for writing is because you are passionate about it. Anything else is a bonus. If writing is what you really want to do, then never give up on your dream. Write what you enjoy or are interested in and use this to create stories and find inspiration. When looking for publishers, do your research. Ask yourself what you want to achieve as an author and what you want to get out of your writing and work towards that goal.

What's the best thing about being a writer?
Connecting with readers is my favourite thing about being a writer. When children who read my books get enjoyment out of what I have created and they want to read more, then I have achieved my purpose as a writer. I get a lot of lovely comments about Xalien and how children really adore her and can relate to her.

Where can people find out more about you and your writing?
I have a website www.michellepath.com.au. I also use Twitter @mimilovesu and have an author Facebook page Michelle Path – Children’s book writer, Pinterest  Michelle Path childrens’s book author and have a Linkedin profile.

Interview with Michelle Path
http://amzn.to/21aFxa2
Who is you favorite character in your book and why?
Xalien is my favorite character in Xalien the Purple Alien. She is so much fun to write about. I love creating all the funny things she gets up to. I’ve become very fond of her. Her adventures almost write themselves now. She is always evolving and learning new things and getting into mischief. She takes me back to the fun times I had as a child.

Why do you think readers are going to enjoy your book?
Xalien the Purple Alien is about an alien who crashes to Earth. She loves children and they can relate to her. As they are growing up and learning things, Xalien is learning about life on Earth. Xalien finds herself getting into funny situations, the kinds of things that children also do. She is very friendly and the combination of all these things make Xalien very approachable and likeable so that children can identify with her and have a giggle too. Adults also can appreciate the humor in the story.

Where can a reader purchase your book?
Xalien the Purple Alien is available from www.rowanvalebooks.com and www.amazon.com  my website www.michellepath.com.au as well as other online stores. Or ask your local bookshop to order in copies.                                                    

What is your work in progress? Tell us about it.
I am currently working on a fantasy type underwater story based around conservation of the oceans. It is going to be around 10,000 words and is written around a girl who finds herself in an underwater world where she meets strange creatures and learns about what they are doing to keep the oceans alive and healthy. It is almost finished and will need a bit of editing and polishing but I’m having a lot of fun writing it. I am working on the ending at the moment.
I always have a few stories on the go at the same time. These include a few children’s picture books that are sequels to books I’ve already published as well as some new stories. I am also working on two YA books.

What are your thoughts on self-publishing verses traditional publishing?
I’ve only been self-published so far but I would love to have the chance to be traditionally published as well. I think as an Indie author, you have more freedom to write something a bit different rather than having to conform to what a traditional publisher is looking for. Of course you have to write books that the public want to read but I do enjoy having a bit more artistic scope. The downside is not having as much marketing fire power compared to traditional publishing. I spend a lot more time on marketing than I do on actually writing stories at the moment. I look at the whole process as a valuable learning experience and I’ve certainly gained a lot of knowledge and learned some new skills along the way. I think there are pros and cons to both types of publishing.

Who or what inspired you to become a writer?
The first inkling that I wanted to be a write was at primary school when we were asked to write and illustrate a book. I wrote about a dog. In high school I started writing as a hobby. I was always surrounded by books as a child and loved reading so it was a culmination of all these things that led me to being a published author today.

When you’re not writing, how do you spend your time?
When I am not writing I love spending time with my 6 horses and I enjoy competing in dressage competitions. My favorite place is the ocean so I often spend time at the beach. I also like going to concerts and the theatre. 


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