Ask the Author: Alisa M. Parenti
Answered Questions (5)
Alisa M. Parenti
My best strategy when I've hit a block is to push away from the computer - literally. I'll take a walk, go for a run, light a candle, meditate, make a meal, or anything to get out of my own head.
I've found that if I can get away from the writing mindset, and let whatever is percolating up there just do its thing, it's much less stressful. I'll try to stop thinking about the story for a few hours or a few days.
I've found that if I can get away from the writing mindset, and let whatever is percolating up there just do its thing, it's much less stressful. I'll try to stop thinking about the story for a few hours or a few days.
Alisa M. Parenti
If you're interested in writing, I'd suggest starting by reading Stephen King's 'On Writing: A Memoir of the Craft.' (Even if horror is NOT your preferred genre!) Then, dedicate some time each day or each week to write. If nothing comes to you, write about that. Just getting in the habit of writing on a regular basis is huge. I was surprised by how much discipline the process takes.
Alisa M. Parenti
I'm currently engaging on the content of the story of BETRAYAL: The Ethel Rosenberg Story - writing blog posts, appearing on podcasts and reaching out to different communities with whom the themes of my book might resonate. Making meaningful connections and posting on social media about the book has been a thrill!
Alisa M. Parenti
The best inspiration for me is to read books, magazines and newspaper articles. I'm also moved to write when I watch or hear something particularly powerful - on TV or on the radio.
Alisa M. Parenti
A story on CBS's 60 Minutes in the fall of 2016 featured interviews with Michael and Robert Meeropol, the surviving sons of Ethel and Julius Rosenberg. That piece raised some serious questions about the trial and death sentences of the Rosenbergs. I ended up reading a slew of books about the case, and realized there was little out there from Ethel's perspective. As a first time author, and after working as a reporter for several decades, it was freeing to write a fictionalized version of what may have happened during that time!
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