Ask the Author: Helen Khan
Answered Questions (10)
Helen Khan
I have so many ideas for books that I would need to live a very long life to get them all written. I keep writing them down for future writings. Where do they come from? For the most part, I hope they are inspired by God. And I believe many of them are. But there are ideas that I quickly shelf because of some problem with the idea. I think God also gives us a discerning mind as to what isn’t appropriate or may offend. For example, today I thought of a great novel title, “No Common Man” and it would feature a soldier from the Pakistani army. I even had the photo I would use for the cover in my mind. But I had to reject that because the army here is sacred ground and one shouldn’t go there. I still think the title is great for what I envision as a great storyline, but I will have to think about what profession my main character would have; something less prominent, like a judge or something. So, I believe that God give me common sense to veto ideas that aren’t his.
Helen Khan
I have two books to read, one I am currently reading, Manna For The Hungry by Linda Perry McCarthy (it's a book of poetry) and next on my list is a re-read of Tess of the d'Urbervilles by Thomas Hardy.
In between that, I read more hum-drum books on writing techniques and marketing my novel (and upcoming ones).
In between that, I read more hum-drum books on writing techniques and marketing my novel (and upcoming ones).
Helen Khan
Spain would be a great place to travel too. Love Spanish music, I would explore old buildings, history, especially that from Northern African and its influence on Spain.
Helen Khan
I just finished reading My Sister, The Serial Killer by Oyinkan Braithwaite. I found it to be one of those, I can't but it down books because I wanted to know who she would kill next.
I want to read Tess of the d'Urbervilles again. I read it when I was in high school but want to read it again as a classic romance and also Sons and Lovers by DH Lawrence is on my reading list.
You might ask why they are on my list. I feel I must write romance books, not for the romance but for giving mentorship (in story form) about what makes for a good marriage, or healthy relationship. I want to understand how to write romance stories that young people will read, enjoy and yet walk away with a new idea or paradigm to think about and implement into their lives.
I want to read Tess of the d'Urbervilles again. I read it when I was in high school but want to read it again as a classic romance and also Sons and Lovers by DH Lawrence is on my reading list.
You might ask why they are on my list. I feel I must write romance books, not for the romance but for giving mentorship (in story form) about what makes for a good marriage, or healthy relationship. I want to understand how to write romance stories that young people will read, enjoy and yet walk away with a new idea or paradigm to think about and implement into their lives.
Helen Khan
From the stories of the voiceless - those who must suffer and remain silent in their pain.
Helen Khan
Start writing, get those words on paper. But at the same time, read up on how to write your genre. How do you build a character, a plot, etc.? But you have to get those thoughts and ideas written down and then you can go back and revise what you have written. And get someone to proofread and edit your work.
Helen Khan
I specifically go looking for ideas. I read, I observe, I go back and revisit a journal or something I wrote previously.
Helen Khan
Being a writer allows you to speak up about traditions or ideologies that have a negative impact on individuals and ultimately society. If done correctly, you can make a statement about taboos without offending if the writer crafts her/his story sensitively and creatively.
Helen Khan
I have several books in the works. One is about abuse. The others are about romance and marriage, whether it is a love marriage or an arranged marriage.
Helen Khan
It's an emotional charge. When I am deeply moved by a grave injustice or disrespect to a person, then I am compelled to write. It's a way of righting the wrong.
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