Ask the Author: Maggie Plummer
Answered Questions (10)
Maggie Plummer
I think an aspiring writers needs to be teachable, humble, and open to suggestions. Years ago I was in a writers' group in which one member had a lot of potential, but never progressed in her writing because she would not listen to group members' feedback. The critiques were constructive, thoughtful, and specific, but she would get defensive instead of listening. My advice to aspiring writers is to open their minds and shove their egos aside.
Maggie Plummer
I think the best thing about being a writer is the feeling of creation: creation of characters and stories; creation of a book that didn't exist before I wrote it; creation of a reading experience for someone out there. It's amazing, when I think about it.
I'm finally answering this question during the time of Covid-19, so I want to add that right now the best thing about being a novelist is spending blocks of time in my fictional world. It's a huge blessing to be able to take mental breaks from the news and reality pretty much every day, yet still be productive. I think it's crucial that all of us spend time taking breaks from thinking about this stressful pandemic we're in. Happy reading!
I'm finally answering this question during the time of Covid-19, so I want to add that right now the best thing about being a novelist is spending blocks of time in my fictional world. It's a huge blessing to be able to take mental breaks from the news and reality pretty much every day, yet still be productive. I think it's crucial that all of us spend time taking breaks from thinking about this stressful pandemic we're in. Happy reading!
Maggie Plummer
I find that digging into research helps me deal with that. Often, as I read about background details, I'm inspired to add to a plot, deepen a character study, or develop a symbolic theme. Any of those lead me back to the writing, giving me a clear objective. Make sense?
Maggie Plummer
Maybe. Let's see...
She groped around in the dark, the stench of The Thing's rank breath turning her stomach. Cursing herself for forgetting to put new batteries in her flashlight, she felt something slither up her arm...
She groped around in the dark, the stench of The Thing's rank breath turning her stomach. Cursing herself for forgetting to put new batteries in her flashlight, she felt something slither up her arm...
Maggie Plummer
I want to read THE ALCHEMIST, since it was recommended to me recently by several friends. Have you read it? Other than that, I was thinking about trying to fill the gaps in my reading of the classics. I wouldn't mind re-reading HUCK FINN, for example. It's time to make a list! xoxo
Maggie Plummer
My favorite novel is TO KILL A MOCKINGBIRD, so I would go to Scout's southern U.S. world and be her friend. I would also love to have conversations with Atticus Finch! While there, I could hopefully help combat that Alabama racism, and help defend the wrongfully accused black defendant. Wouldn't that be something? Thanks for a great question.
Maggie Plummer
Hi, Pamela! Thanks for your kind words here. Yes, Book 2 follows the same main character, and also follows Birdie and Colin. You'll see, I hope, when you read it. I keep trying to think up a story line for a Book 3, but so far haven't been able to. I welcome any ideas, once you've finished the second book. Thanks again for writing!
Maggie Plummer
I drink plenty of black French Roast coffee!! LOL...it's true, though.
Maggie Plummer
I'm revising a different sort of novel that I wrote years ago. It's been hiding in a drawer for way too long, I figure. Although it does include quite a bit of history -- Montana gold rush history -- the story is told within a modern framework. So, this next novel is not historical fiction like my first two. I think it would be categorized as Contemporary Mainstream Fiction.
Maggie Plummer
The readers who loved my first novel, SPIRITED AWAY - A NOVEL OF THE STOLEN IRISH, were not at all shy about enthusiastically demanding a sequel. So, here it is! I hope they like it, and I hope you like it, too!
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