Author Meet & Greet

All are welcome here.

Connect with authors through their social media links (if they choose to share them), learn about their writing process, and purchase their works.

The 4 most current interviews are posted here. Older ones may be found under the Archive: Author Meet & Greet on the main page of this blog by the author’s last name.

**Jack Ketchum’s Interview from December 2017 is PINNED at the bottom of this page**

So, without further ado, let’s get to know

Meet & Greet Author:  #225

Rebecca Gittrich Whitecotton

Your Name: Rebecca Gittrich Whitecotton       

Genre(s) of your work: Spirituality and Mysticism, Personal Transformation, Children’s Spirituality

Titles/Year of Published Work(s):

Pull Your Self Together: A True Story of Alternate Realities, Spiritual Healing, and Dimensional Wholeness, 2021

Child of Mine, Know This, 2006

Santa’s Greatest Gift: The Truth About Santa’s Identity Wrapped in the Spiritual Meaning of Christmas, 2010

Bio:

Rebecca Whitecotton is a modern-day philosopher—a wanna-be Socrates sitting on the digital steps of the internet Parthenon, throwing out ideas about the nature of reality.

With the publication of Pull Your Self Together: A True Story of Alternate Realities, Spiritual Healing, and Dimensional Wholeness, Rebecca added interdimensional travel agent to her list of job titles, which have included reporter, editor, children’s book author, and graphic designer. She offers workshops and retreats about multidimensional thinking and connecting with alternate versions of yourself in the multiverse.

Rebecca is also the award-winning children’s book author of Child of Mine, Know This, hailed by Neale Donald Walsch as “the single most imaginative children’s book to come along in ages.” Children of the New Earth magazine gave it their Award of Excellence, it was a finalist in the Coalition of Visionary Retailers Awards, and Light of Consciousness magazine called it “A hallmark book in an age of emerging global consciousness.”

Rebecca’s first children’s book, Santa’s Greatest Gift, spilled the beans about Santa Claus and is an Amazon bestseller.

With a bachelor’s in journalism from Northwestern University and a master’s in sociology of religion from the University of New Mexico, Rebecca loves to think and write about spirituality, philosophy, meditation, and quantum physics. She has lived a nomadic life due to her husband Randy’s career, and they recently moved back to Rebecca’s hometown of Peoria, Illinois,.

Why do you write in the genre that you do?

Since I was in high school I have been drawn to books about spirituality, philosophy, and metaphysics. It’s fascinating to me to read about the different ways people experience the divine and otherworldly in everyday life. Writing is part of the soul journey for me. All the books I have published started as a personal journey, and then found a wider audience. I wrote Child of Mine, Know This because I wanted my kids to know that I recognized that they were ancient, eternal souls who were squished into small bodies. I wrote Santa’s Greatest Gift to reframe Santa’s relation to Christmas in my mind so I wouldn’t feel like I was lying to my kids. Pull Your Self Together is a memoir of spiritual transformation, and I wrote it to heal myself. I was reluctant to publish it because it’s so personal and sounds a little crazy to some people. Now that it’s out there, I’m thankful I had the courage to release it because readers have let me know that my story has helped them.

How has writing changed/altered your life?

Writing has transformed me many times over. Putting pen to paper is how I discover what’s going on inside my mind and my soul, and I’m sometimes surprised by what pops onto the page.  I am a journaler and personal writer first, and some of that writing nagged at me to find a wider audience. Pull Your Self Together is essentially the story of how writing changed my life.

Who are your favorite authors and why?

I have favorite genres more than favorite authors. I like books that make me think deeply or differently about the reality I see around me. I read a lot of nonfiction in the genres of spirituality (Neale Donald Walsch, Pema Chodron), science and spirituality (Quantum Revelation by Paul Levy, and Becoming Supernatural by Joe Dispensa), quantum physics (Something Deeply Hidden: Quantum Worlds and the Emergence of Spacetime by Sean Carroll), and creative inspiration (The Artist’s Way by Julia Cameron and Big Magic by Elizabeth Gilbert).  I do love a good novel, and my favorites lately are ones with alternate realities that are very similar to my own book (A Day Like This by Kelley McNeil and The Midnight Library by Matt Haig).

Do you believe that audiobooks are the wave of the future, more of a passing fad, or somewhere in between and why?

I enjoy audiobooks myself and know there are many people (my daughter included) who will only read a book if it’s on audio. And for the record, I don’t think it’s cheating to read by audio! We live in a multitasking world, and any format that can deliver good writing and an important message while I’m driving or doing laundry is a win in my book. I’m currently producing my first audiobook for Pull Your Self Together, and look forward to expanding my audience.

What have you found to be a good marketing tool? A bad one?

I have had great success with Amazon advertising because it allows you to really hone in on your niche and target the ideal reader.

Do you find that you sell better in person (at events) or through social media (like a personal blog, website, or Amazon)?

My books are in a very distinct niche, so it’s much easier for me to sell when I can target my message to specific readers. I love going to in-person events and talking to people, but for actual sales it has to be a targeted event, like a body-mind-spirit expo.

Where can people find you and your work?

Website: https://rebeccawhitecotton.com

Amazon: Pull Your Self Together http://www.amzn.com/0996827188

Facebook: Rebecca Whitecotton https://www.facebook.com/rebeccawhitecotton

Facebook: Dimensional Wholeness https://www.facebook.com/dimensionalwholeness

 

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Matthew Bennett Young

Your Name: Matthew Bennett Young

Genre(s) of your work: Picture books/Poetry

Titles/Year of Published Work(s):

Maybe Colours – 2021

Snowman – 2021

Spaceball – 2022

Bio:

Matthew Bennett Young is a British author and has published in many forms (picture books, flash fiction, short stories and poetry) although his big passion is for picture books. Not only does he write but sometimes he illustrates as well. He is also an artist-educator and has been teaching his inspiring workshops all over the world. He currently resides in Montreal and is a member of ArtistInspire and Culture a L’Ecole. He believes all creativity is a form of expression and is essential for well-being, especially now, and it takes practice!

Why do you write in the genre that you do?

I love art and I love literature. Picture books combine both perfectly for me. I also enjoy creating a work that can have real meaning and significance for the reader in relatively little time. I’m also very interested in the way a picture book offers an opportunity for discussion/comment between adults and children.

How has writing changed/altered your life?

Made me more aware of my everyday life I think. Made me more open to reflection.

Who are your favorite authors and why?

All of those listed below produce(d) with a great sense of humour:

David McKee – fantastic wry humour often combined with social commentary. Brilliant story teller. Books I’m referring to in particular – Not Now Bernard & The Hill & the Rock

Robert Munsch – As above. Books – Paperbag Princess & The Mud Puddle & Murmel Murmel Murmel

Anthony Browne – again as above but his illustration is really powerful aswell. Books of his I particularly like – Look What I’ve Got & Piggybook

Do you believe that audiobooks are the wave of the future, more of a passing fad, or somewhere in between and why?

I listen to the radio a lot. I love to focus on the voice as often as I can so I think there should always be a place for audiobooks. Sometimes I just want to listen. I think it makes the book come alive in a different way. I have answered this from my own perspective. There are also many reasons why audiobooks might be preferable…. for people who have reading difficulties for example. Audiobooks may support learning to read and contribute to fluency.

What is your opinion of mainstream/corporate bookstores?

I think any bookstore is a good thing. I like to see bookstores in the community. Not sure what the purpose of this question is but I do like to see bookstores that feature local (Indie) authors so in that sense mainstream stores are a disappointment.

What have you found to be a good marketing tool? A bad one?

I’ve not been great at promoting myself. Something I really have to devote more time to. I have a website that needs updating! I think getting a publicist was a big step in the right direction. Need to do more! Should at least have an Instagram account and TikTok I think.

Do you believe writing should be censored – that some topics should remain taboo?

Yeah this is a challenging question (but it also feels like two separate questions). I think material should be sensitive to age certainly. I always think of comedy and how often there is such a fine line between humour and causing offense. I think ultimately I don’t agree with censorship (for an adult/academic audience) because you would remove the material that can be used for constructive discussion and possibly drive it underground etc. The question of whether something should be censored is an opportunity for review/critique and in that sense we can learn and consider more about why someone would want/choose to express themselves in that way or what they may be trying to achieve. What their context is I guess.

Where can people find you and your work?

If you google my full name Matthew Bennett Young or my website www.onewildword.org

All my books are available online (Amazon)

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Barry Kester

Your Name: Barry Kester

Genre(s) of your work: Musical Theatre

Titles/Year of Published Work(s):

Round In Circles – The Story of Rodgers & Hammerstein’s “Carousel.” 2022

Bio:

After a career as an accountant and tax advisor, in 2010 I finally set out to do what I really wanted to do with my life and write a book.  I knew it would not be easy, and it wasn’t, but after considerable effort, life’s inevitable interventions, and masses of research, Round In Circles is the result.

Why do you write in the genre that you do?

I have always loved musical theatre, particularly the shows of “The Golden Age”, so when I was considering a topic about which to write my first book, it seemed the natural choice.

My next book, will be something completely different.

How has writing changed/altered your life?

The English language has long been a passion of mine, and I have been an avid reader since childhood.  My whole life I have nurtured a desire to try my hand at writing, and finally doing so during these past few years has made my retirement a real joy. I was not at all sure I would find a publisher, but that did not matter.  It was the process that gave me so much pleasure.  Of course, finding a publisher, and holding a copy of the (beautifully) printed book in my hand was a very welcome bonus, and a source of great pride.

Who are your favorite authors and why?

Jane Austen.  Her mastery of the English language is exquisite.

In a lighter vein, I like Robert Harris’s books.  He is a master story teller.

Do you believe that audiobooks are the wave of the future, more of a passing fad, or somewhere in between and why?

They certainly have their place. I used to have to travel quite a lot and caught up with a lot of books that were on my to read list whilst in the car. I don’t think they will ever replace printed books.

What have you found to be a good marketing tool? A bad one?

Obviously social media is becoming increasingly important and I suspect is the main tool for most new authors.

Do you believe writing should be censored – that some topics should remain taboo?

No. The only exception I would consider is in respect of a direct incitement to hatred and violence.  Authors must be free to write about life as it is or as it was, and not as self-appointed arbiters would deem to be appropriate today.  That is the only way we can learn from history’s mistakes and hopefully not repeat them.

What is your opinion of Trigger Warnings?

Whilst there may be occasions when they are needed, I am not a fan. I bought an egg mayo sandwich from a major supermarket not so long ago, and the wrapper contained a stark warning that “this product may contain eggs.”  Enough said.

Do you find that you sell better in person (at events) or through social media (like a personal blog, website, or Amazon)?

I haven’t had much experience yet, of selling in person, though I have been interviewed on a couple of podcasts that have resulted in sales.  My blog as yet only attracts a small number of visitors, and I must give more time to it.

Where can people find you and your work?

On Amazon and in most major bookshops all over the world.

https://amzn.to/3e3FNZX

http://www.Hakolsheli.com

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Felicia Mack Little

Your Name: Felicia Mack Little

Pseudonym (if you use one): Mack Little

Genre(s) of your work: Historical Fiction, Horror

Titles/Year of Published Work(s):

Daughter of Hades/2021

Progenie/2019 (Out of Print)

Bio:

Born in Conyers, Georgia, I studied International Politics in Seville, Spain. I lived several years in Germany. My studies and service in the Army have taken me all over the U.S. I travel to Europe regularly for research. I am currently on the Board of Directors of the Houston Writer’s Guild.  “Progenie” is my first novel.

Why do you write in the genre that you do?

I write historical romance, fantasy, and horror because I enjoy reading these genres. However, the landscaper of what I was reading was monochromatic. I know this is starting to sound trite, but none of the heroes looked like me. In these historical novels, black and brown populations have been erased or treated as throwaway devices to serve the white hero. I want to show black and brown, and other marginalized populations do exist and can play a part in escapist fare. I want to spark the imagination of other authors, be they black or white, about what romance, fantasy, and horror could look like.

How has writing changed/altered your life?

Through writing, I have found meaning and expression. However, as an artist, it can be somewhat tortuous as an independent author, seeking validation and having to be a salesperson and market strategist.

Who are your favorite authors and why?

Maya Angelou was an early favorite because she opened up a world of possibilities to a poor country girl, who seemed to have limited options.

John Irving is the master of character development. So many of his characters as so real, I go back and re-read them so that I can re-visit them.

James A. Corey, who is actually a couple of authors, their storytelling is the best I’ve read so far. I love the way they structure the story and themes and create compelling narratives.

Do you believe that audiobooks are the wave of the future, more of a passing fad, or somewhere in between and why?

I don’t believe audiobooks will replace physical books, but, because of its convenience, it’s definitely a trend that is here to stay. While I prefer hard-copy books, but I love listening to audiobooks when I walk or drive anywhere.

What is your opinion of mainstream/corporate bookstores?

I don’t have much of an opinion. I’m sure there is some movement or another against them, but I don’t have the bandwidth to be overly concerned. I do prefer small independent bookstores, especially the ones with cats…or dogs. I love the sense of community and their accessibility to independent authors.

What have you found to be a good marketing tool? A bad one?

I think interviews, book signings, and events that contact potential readers are the best. Newsletters are necessary, but for me, right now, it is not the most useful. I have yet to harness the power of that medium.

Do you believe writing should be censored – that some topics should remain taboo?

No topics should be taboo. However, writers should be prepared for the consequences of what they write.

Where can people find you and your work?

You can purchase my books on Amazon. You can find out more about me and sign up for my newsletter at: https://mack-little.com

Twitter handle: @zenbabie

Instagram: @zenbabie

 

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Jack Ketchum

(PINNED – Interviewed in December 2017)

Name: Dallas Mayr

Pseudonym (if you use one): Jack Ketchum

Genre(s) of your work: Horror and Suspense (and the occasional Black Comedy.)

Titles/Year of Published Work(s):  Writing professionally since 1970, first fiction 1976, first novel, OFF SEASON, 1981.

Bio: see my website http://www.jackketchum.net/and add to that, Most Recent Novel, THE SECRET LIFE OF SOULS, written with Lucky McKee and Most Recent Collection, GORILLA IN MY ROOM.

Why do you write in the genre that you do?  

I grew up loving fantasy, and horror is the dark side of fantasy.

How has writing changed/altered your life? The usual perks of self-employment — no punching the time clock, no damn bosses hovering over your desk.  But in addition to that, writing mandates continual periods of self-examination.  You don’t easily get away with lying to yourself on the page.  It requires you to scour your history and your present for your deepest faults and pleasures, to reveal and revel in them, to find the strengths in your life and work from there, reaching outward.

Who are your favorite authors and why?

Far too many to list here.  I read all over the place and consequently my favorite writers come from all genres and backgrounds, from Henry Miller to Gabriel Garcia Marquez, from Raymond Chandler, Elmore Leonard and John D. MacDonald to Thomas Hardy, Philip Roth, Michael Chabon, Joyce Carol Oates, Peter Straub and Stephen King.  Why?  Because they’re smart, empathic, courageous.  Because they’re good!

What is your opinion of mainstream/corporate bookstores?

I wish we had a lot more mom-and-pop, brick-and-mortar bookstores.  I seriously miss browsing.

What do you hope your readers will take away from your work?

The need for empathy and tenderness in the world, that the souls of beasts and humans matter.  And a few hours of just plain fun.

How much does personal experience play in your written work?

Depends on the piece.  Some, like THE GIRL NEXT DOOR and RED, are highly personal, others…?  I don’t know where the hell they came from!

How do you find the motivation to complete a book/story?  

Finishing a piece is almost always easy.  It’s getting started that’s hard.  Getting all your ducks in a row and then having the balls and suspension of disbelief  to say to yourself, this is really going to work.

What makes you NOT finish reading a book?

I give books a first paragraph test.  If it passes, then a first chapter test.  If it passes that, I’ll almost always finish the book — I can tell from there that I’m going to want to.   If it fails I scuttle it immediately.  Very occasionally, too much repetition will make me dump it.  I don’t want to waste reading-time.  Too much good stuff out there.

Do you believe writing should be censored – that some topics should remain taboo?

Nothing should ever be censored.  Everything is worth discussing.  How long a discussion is another matter entirely.

Any pet peeves in writing? In reading others’ work?

 Life’s short.  I don’t bother with peeves.  If I’m bored, I just close the book.

Where can people find you and your work?

Website, see above. I have a list of published works there.   Facebook, https://www.facebook.com/jackketchumofficial/ Twitter, https://twitter.com/jackketchum Wikipedia, https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Jack_Ketchum

What can I say?

I am honored to have snagged a bit of Jack Ketchum’s time, for him to share his thoughts and words with me (and my readers), and for his participation in a blog such as this one. Thank you so much – for the interview as well as your writing. It has and continues to be an inspiration.

Readers, I implore you to look into Jack Ketchum’s work, especially if you are a horror/suspense fan. From the mouth of Stephen King – “Who’s the scariest guy in America? Probably Jack Ketchum.”