Ask the Author: Jennifer-Crystal Johnson
Answered Questions (6)
Jennifer-Crystal Johnson
I got the idea for Fibers because I was online looking up creatures (cryptozoology) and came across a video that called the disease "alien fibers." I watched it and was intrigued, so I ended up watching hours of video about Morgellons and got to know what it is, how it affects the people who have it, and some of the controversy and real-life conspiracy theories involved. It didn't take long for an idea to begin taking shape, especially because of my fascination with alternate dimensions. One thing led to another... =)
Jennifer-Crystal Johnson
Great question! Most of my ideas come from dreams, so when I wake up and remember a crazy dream, I always write it down. Sometimes they are so profound that I get a little freaked out (is it possible to see into other worlds through your subconscious? Some say it is), but I always write it down because it might make an awesome story =).
Jennifer-Crystal Johnson
My time has been almost entirely consumed with marketing and advertising my new novel, Fibers; however, I am REALLY looking forward to working on the sequel and can't wait to see what happens next in Anna's adventure =).
Jennifer-Crystal Johnson
To me, the best thing about being a writer is creating entire worlds, situations, and relationships from your imagination. Though my ideas are generally plot-based, I find that I also get involved with my characters and care about the crazy situations they find themselves in.
Jennifer-Crystal Johnson
Write a lot and read a lot. You can't really be the best writer possible without reading, and believe it or not, reading helps to subconsciously ingrain spelling and grammar into your head. You wouldn't believe how important that is, simply because a publisher won't usually even look at a manuscript unless it has decent spelling and grammar.
And of course you have to keep your writing skills sharp. I recommend writing daily, even if it's just for 30 minutes some days.
Happy writing!
Jen
And of course you have to keep your writing skills sharp. I recommend writing daily, even if it's just for 30 minutes some days.
Happy writing!
Jen
Jennifer-Crystal Johnson
Great question! Writer's block can be tricky... especially when you sit down at a designated time to write and inspiration just doesn't want to come out of hiding for you.
I have a few suggestions as far as what to do when writer's block rears its ugly head:
- Write anyway. Do a free-write for ten minutes or seek out some writing exercises. Sometimes it's just about getting the creative juices flowing and taking in information to spark it.
- Read. Something fictional, something inspirational, some poetry... anything! Whatever you enjoy or whatever kind of mood you're in, read. It helps to exercise your entire brain and might just ignite an idea or three.
- Do something that has absolutely nothing to do with writing. I like to listen to loud music and clean when I'm sick of staring at a computer screen. It helps keep me a little more active as well as giving me something mindless to do so I can let my thoughts wander =).
Those are some of the tricks I use when I'm uninspired to write. Although it isn't for everyone, freelance writing and blogging is a good way to teach yourself to write on command... plus earn a little extra cash =).
Hope this helps!
Jen
I have a few suggestions as far as what to do when writer's block rears its ugly head:
- Write anyway. Do a free-write for ten minutes or seek out some writing exercises. Sometimes it's just about getting the creative juices flowing and taking in information to spark it.
- Read. Something fictional, something inspirational, some poetry... anything! Whatever you enjoy or whatever kind of mood you're in, read. It helps to exercise your entire brain and might just ignite an idea or three.
- Do something that has absolutely nothing to do with writing. I like to listen to loud music and clean when I'm sick of staring at a computer screen. It helps keep me a little more active as well as giving me something mindless to do so I can let my thoughts wander =).
Those are some of the tricks I use when I'm uninspired to write. Although it isn't for everyone, freelance writing and blogging is a good way to teach yourself to write on command... plus earn a little extra cash =).
Hope this helps!
Jen
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