Usually, I focus on fiction, but today, Jeanette Levellie is
visiting Christian Writer/Reader Connection with her book, "The Heart of
Humor."
Check out the giveaway details at the end of this post.
1. Susan: You have
several books to your credit. When and how did the desire to write take root in
your heart?
As a child I loved to make books by writing stories and
"binding" them with a cardboard cover. When I was in my twenties, I
had several poems and a couple of articles published, then set aside that
desire to focus on homeschooling my kids. When they were teenagers, I began
writing for publication again.
At a Christian writers conference in 2009 I realized I wanted
to make a career of writing. When I told the Lord that, He replied, "You
can't do this by yourself." That was five books ago, and He's been
faithful to bring a boatload of friends - including you - to help me navigate
this wild ride!
Susan: Thanks, Jen. I don't know what I'd do without my
writer buddies.
2. Susan: What was the most exciting part of your
writing journey?
When I got my first book contract in 2011 for Two Scoops of Grace with Chuckles on Top. Although
I've published three books since then and finished another, that first baby
sent me over the moon with joy.
Susan: I fully understand. The Moses Conspiracy had the same
effect on me.
3. Susan: What was the most challenging part of the
journey so far?
Keeping my eyes on Jesus and His call on my life to show His
grace and be a servant, rather than focusing on the publishing, marketing, and
platform building side of writing.
Susan: There are many distractions to keep us from writing for
our Audience of One.
4. Susan: If you had it to do over again, what would
you do differently?
Relax more, stress less, laugh and pray more. In spite of
the fact that I write inspirational humor, I often take myself too seriously.
God's not worried about the world; He's got a sure and happy plan for those who
belong to Him. I need to rest in His love more.
Susan: I'm right there with you, Jen.
5. Susan: Last, but not least, do you have any advice
for non-fiction writers?
But of course! A redhead is always ready with advice,
whether she's familiar with the topic or not!
- Ask
God to help you every step of the way with divine wisdom. He's been around
awhile and knows everything. He will show you the perfect path for your
book and your career if you take time to listen.
- If you don't already have a few prayer partners that you meet with regularly, get some now. As these trusted friends for advice and prayer covering, and also pray for their needs.
- Read
similar books in the genre you write to see what works and what doesn't.
- Don't
take yourself and all the little details that go along with your book-cover
art, title, back cover blurb, etc.-too seriously. Don't ask me how I know
this. That's a whole new interview!
Susan: As always, you
hit the target with your advice. It's so easy to stress out in this profession.
GIVEAWAY TIME!
Jen has generously offered to give away one print copy of The
Heart of Humor to one
commenter. The giveaway is open to U.S. residents. You must provide your email address in your comment, so we can contact you. The deadline for
entering is Friday, August 31st. Jen will draw a name from the entries, and the
winner will be announced on Monday, September 3.
You can connect with Jen at the following social media
links:
"One little kind word makes a huge
impact. Will you be the sunlight in someone's darkness today?"
