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.
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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.
