Interview with Author Vivianne Knebel
1. At what point did you decide to be an author and what was your path to publication?
Answer:
My life started with tragedy and ended in triumph. It is all about overcoming.
I knew I had a story within me that needed to be told. This prompted me to write my memoir “From Rubble To Champagne”. The book has since been turned into a documentary film called “An Unimportant Girl.
I started writing my manuscript by hand, it allowed me to deal with my life as a whole instead of single-day events and gave me a chance to engage in memories that evoked strong feelings and boosted my happiness. I turned in my finished project to Page Publishing.
2. What do you do when a new idea jumps out at you while you’re still working on a book? Do you chase the squirrel ( aka “ UP syndrome”) or do you finish your current project first?
Answer:
When a new idea jumps out at me I take notice and file it away in my head.
Once I am on a project I stay totally focused and committed until it is completed.
3. Tell us what you enjoy most about writing.
Answer:
Writing is my secret to lasting contentment. It involves creative work and is fulfilling.
My books are inspirational. I don’t just write because it makes me feel good.
I write because it gives me purpose. All my books are full of important teachings to help others find meaning and fulfillment.
4. What have you found to be most challenging about writing a memoir?
Answer:
To be completely open and honest. You have to face your own personal challenges that are inherent in writing. I faced vulnerability in writing my memoir. When you bear all you are open to judgment.
In order to connect with the reader it is important to not cheat the reader.
5. Is there anything you would like people to take away from your book?
Answer:
My most recent book “ The Art Of Aging” has just been released.
If there is one thing I would like people to take away from this book, I want it to be this: the characteristic that has found its way into my life and has been the most significant is a profound sense of gratitude.
6. Do you have any odd (writing ) habits?
Answer:
I still write by hand.
7. Share some advice for aspiring authors. What advice would you give to your younger self?
Answer:
My advice to aspiring authors is to be authentic and to get to the heart of the reader.
My advice to my younger self would be to free myself from self-limiting beliefs which keep us in shackles.
8. To date what is your favorite, ( or most difficult ) chapter you have ever written?
Answer:
The most difficult chapter I have written is in my memoir “From Rubble To Champagne”. Rising from the ashes of war-torn Berlin to a life of grace beauty and gratitude. I wrote about the lowest point in my life which was at age 17 when I attempted to commit suicide.
About the Author
Books by Vivianne Knebel
