I always loved to write but never found the time, working in the corporate world with a business degree from Philadelphia University. When I became treasurer for a family business, it lent me greater time and flexibility to pursue my passion.
I always loved to write but never found the time, working in the corporate world with a business degree from Philadelphia University. When I became treasurer for a family business, it lent me greater time and flexibility to pursue my passion.
I received the calling to be a writer about five years ago while tutoring elementary school students in reading. As an avid reader, who always had my head buried in books, it bothered me that some of these children didn’t like to read. I thought to myself, “If only I could write books that kids would enjoy reading—I’d make a difference.
So I took a two-year correspondence course with the Institute of Children’s Literature, learning to write for children and teens. I joined a writers’ group and became president for two years, which opened doors for me through networking. Soon, I was writing for anthologies, newsletters, local magazines and newspapers. A family article was published nationally. Then came an opportunity to serve as a local historian, chronicling the 90-year history of El Paso’s county hospital, Thomason General.
I began writing a novel as my last assignment with the Institute. The idea of a novel both thrilled and intimidated me. What would I write about? My twelve-year-old son, Nick, came up with the idea of writing about the Tower of London. I spent two years researching and writing a novel set in contemporary time about an American girl with an anger problem who visits her uncle, a Beefeater at the Tower of London. Through the tales of the Tower and its ghosts, my protagonist learns anger management. When WordWright.biz Publishers conducted a workshop for my writing group, the publisher agreed to read my novel and soon offered me a contract to publish it. Dark Tales of the Tower made its debut in October 2005.
Influences: At one of my first writers’ league meetings, I heard mystery novelist, L.C. Hayden speak. I felt spellbound, meeting a real, live author for the first time. She had published four books with a fifth on its way. A determination bubbled from within and I thought, “If she could do it, so can I!” From that moment on, I forged ahead toward my goal, mowing down obstacles thrown in my path—nothing would stop me from achieving my purpose: I would publish children’s books and promote literacy. I also met mentors along the way: members from my writers’ group who helped critique my work.
I can’t stress enough how important it is to read in your genre. Reading became my research, although I try not to model anyone else’s style. Don’t follow fads; follow your heart’s passion. I love blending history with fiction, so that children may learn while being entertained. In children’s fiction the challenge to impart a lesson is met with not sounding preachy. Let them learn subliminally, while enjoying what they read.
Join a writers’ group and get constructive feedback from your peers. Keep an open mind and don’t get defensive; that’s how we develop and hone our craft. Continue your education with writing conferences and workshops. The Society of Children’s Books Writers and Illustrators offers two invaluable conferences each year, featuring authors, editors and publishers from New York publishing houses. Each time I attend a conference, I walk away enlightened.
Prior to my book being published, I found a web master to create a website. It’s a powerful marketing tool to showcase your book reviews, your bio, the presentation and workshops you offer, a sample chapter of your book, book signings and appearances, and a page where they may order your book. When I contact a school about my presentation, I direct them to my website www.donnamunch.4t.com and almost always receive an immediate response.
I’m currently busy promoting my book. I visit schools and believe I’m reaching some of these children, getting them excited about reading. I also visit libraries and conduct writing workshops for children and adults. I’m working on my second young adult novel, and co-authoring a historical nonfiction book for the El Paso Center for Children.