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Is it possible to be a good writer without being a good reader? No, I don’t think so. You might read a how-to book on writing technique, but seeing that technique applied by a skillful author in a great story connects all the dots. According to a report of the Independent Book Publishing Association, over five million American adults belong to reading groups. What, do you believe, is the basis for this country's love for literature and books? I believe it stems from all the creative freedoms we enjoy in America. We’re encouraged to ask, “what if?” and to think outside the box. We have a rich history and diversity of ideas. Also, book clubs are a way of restoring that personal connection that we lack in our daily dependence on technology. Have you ever belonged to a reading group? Not to a formal reading group, but I enjoy discussing great books with friends and passing along recommendations. What advice do you have for reading group members when it comes to selecting books for discussion? I would suggest the obvious, which is to choose wisely regarding the sensitivities of all members of the group, and that it’s important to support local authors within the community whenever possible. What books are you reading now or do you plan to read? I am currently reading The Shack, and I’m planning to read Water For Elephants. If you were stuck on a deserted island and could only bring one book with you to read, what would it be and why? My Bible. It’s got everything – romance, comedy, drama, history, adventure, hope. It’s multi-faceted and reflects more layers of truth the deeper you look into it. If you could have dinner with three writers (dead or alive) who would they be and why? Ray Bradbury – my favorite fiction author. Anne Lamott – for her authenticity in finding faith. Harper Lee – for all the obvious reasons (only one incredible book?). Have you ever read anything you're too embarrassed to admit (except in this interview)? Yes. Lamb by Christopher Moore. It was a hilarious fictional ‘account’ of Christ and his childhood pal, Biff. The ‘Church Lady’ would never approve, which made it even more fun to read. Favorite book when you were a child? It’s a tie between Blue Willow and The Witch of Blackbird Pond. If you have children, is this the same book you read to them? If not, what is your favorite book for your children? My children had very different tastes in books, but when they were young, we had a lot of fun reading Frog and Toad, and later The Hobbit became a favorite. Favorite heroine in literature and why? I would have to say Scout from To Kill a Mockingbird. She has a great voice and a wonderful viewpoint, and because she’s an innocent child, there’s an added element of tension for her welfare. Favorite hero in literature and why? Frodo Baggins. He is so endearing that by the end, I found myself emotionally invested in Frodo’s journey to the point that I was "pushing"’ him up Mt. Doom to fulfill his quest, to his almost certain demise. It was almost heartbreaking to say "goodbye" to the characters when the story ended. So I started over with the first book... Favorite first line from a book? “The seller of lightning rods arrived just ahead of the storm.” from Ray Bradbury’s Something Wicked This Way Comes. And what a "storm" it turns out to be! Book that changed your life? Again, it’s a tie between The Alchemist by Paulo Coelho for encouraging me to pursue my dreams, and The Time Traveler’s Wife, for giving me permission to re-frame some regrettable childhood experiences.
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