Ask the Author: Alexis Lantgen
Answered Questions (6)
Alexis Lantgen
I think the best thing is creating something new, literally writing your own story that you feel passionate about or interested in. I also think that being a writer has helped me learn to observe other people and my surroundings more thoughtfully. It gives me the sense that everyone, every single person, has a story to tell. I think understanding that helps me see people more compassionately and with more empathy.
Alexis Lantgen
I try to empathize with my characters, and really think through how they might feel, how they experience the world, what their perspectives are. I think that deep empathy, whether for a fictional character or a human being we meet in our lives, is very inspirational.
Alexis Lantgen
The book I'm writing now was inspired by a couple of things. In particular, the Syrian refugee crisis and the evacuation of English children during the London Blitz. I've mixed in some old Danish folktales and some fantasy elements as well. I'm really excited by the story and hope I'll finish a rough draft by the end of the summer!
Alexis Lantgen
I think for me writer's block is a sign of exhaustion. It means I need more sleep, a nice break, and some good self-care. I tend love long walks outside, in a park or another peaceful setting, to settle my mind.
Another thing that helps me write is empathy. I try to think about what other people's lives are like, what their secret dreams and hopes and ambitions are, what they're like behind closed doors. I think everyone has a story, and I try to think about what it's like to walk in another person's shoes.
Another thing that helps me write is empathy. I try to think about what other people's lives are like, what their secret dreams and hopes and ambitions are, what they're like behind closed doors. I think everyone has a story, and I try to think about what it's like to walk in another person's shoes.
Alexis Lantgen
I'm writing a middle grade fantasy novel and editing a collection of fantasy short stories.
Alexis Lantgen
Read! Read as much as you can. Read books in the genres you love, read books in genres you don't, and try new books and new authors as much as you can. The more you read, the better your sense of good prose, tight pacing, in depth characters, and effective story.
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