What
genre do you write and why?
I enjoy writing numerous
genres for children. Picture books are a fun challenge. An author only has so
many words and pages to use. Every single word matters. This is like a fun
puzzle! I enjoy writing children’s chapter books—this may even be my favorite.
These young readers are often looking for relatable, humorous stories. I so
enjoy a good one-liner! I have dabbled in both middle grade and young adult
fiction. For me, I have to be truly committed to a story in these genres, since
they often consume much more time. Nonetheless, writing for older children is
an incredibly rewarding experience.
Tell us about your
latest book.
My latest book is titled Teeny Sweeney and the Mustache Cash. It is the first in a new
series published with Christian publisher Little Lamb Books. This early-reader
is for children who are beginning to read on their own. Teeny is a lovely
character to write. She’s bold, curious, and with such a big heart. The story
begins with Teeny’s teacher assigning the class a huge project: to create a
business plan in a single week. Teeny not only creates a business plan, she
creates a thriving business. Unfortunately, she skims over a few pretty
important parts. The story is funny and zany, and one I really do think kids
will enjoy.
What did you edit out
of this book?
I did have to edit out a line about a worm’s derriere. That kind of broke my heart,
but I know it’s part of the process!
How was this book
published? Why did you choose that particular publishing
route?
I decided to sign with traditional publisher
Little Lamb Books. After speaking with the founder, Rachel Pellegrino, I knew
God had placed Teeny in good hands. The people at Little Lamb Books expect so
much from their authors, but they expect the same—if not more—from themselves.
These people are the finest at what they do, from editing to marketing. They
are eager for your input and to share with you the many steps from manuscript
to published work. It has been a beautiful process to experience!
What formats is the
book available in?
The paperback is currently available for pre-sale
at Amazon and other major retailers. There will be hardbacks available for
purchase when I debut the story at The Great Homeschool Convention in Texas
Who are your favourite
authors?
Whew. That’s a big question. I have included a
handful of favorites.
Mem Fox
Dan Gutman
Lauren Kate
Else Holmelund Minarik
James Christopher Carroll
What's the best thing
about being a writer?
I love the whimsy of it all. It’s absolutely
thrilling to weave a world, rich in characters and growth and pretend.
Where can people find
out more about you and your writing?
I am active on both Twitter and Facebook. I
keep my website updated with current events and bookish news. Readers can
access my blog from my website and read a new Five Minute Friday each week.
These are Bible lessons for kids that require little materials and time. On my
website, readers can also subscribe to my monthly newsletter. My newsletter
peeps are the first to see new covers and hear about events before I even post
to my site. I like to include even more Bible lessons through my newsletter
too.
Website: www.amberlykristenclowe.com
My twitter handle: @AmberlyClowe
Search “Amberly Clowe” on Facebook for my
author page.
Do you believe
in writers block?
I do. There are moments in which I feel
drained. I’m discouraged. I need a break. During these moments, I focus on
something else. Maybe I put more time into my online presence. Maybe I
brainstorm ideas for new books or re-visit old ones. Maybe I ferociously read. I’m
almost always doing something, but I totally get re-grouping.
Who or what inspired
you to become a writer?
I have enjoyed creating characters since I
can remember. I cherish the memories of my elementary school teachers reading
and laughing at my writing assignments. I had such a happy childhood when it
came to books, whether meeting authors or practically camping out at the
library during my summers. And once I became a school teacher, reading to my
students at every opportunity, writing just made more and more sense. I think
all of this had an influence in my pursuit.
