We also are happy to feature an author via an interview rather than a guest post. Below are some of the interview questions we’ve used in the past. Authors are welcome to select 5-10 (or however many they desire).
- At what point did you decide to be an author, and what was your path to publication?
- 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?
- Who is your favorite character to write, and why is that person your favorite? If picking a favorite character would be like picking a favorite child, which character seems to be the most demanding of your attention and detail as a writer?
- Describe your writing process. Do you outline, plot, and plan, or is your writing more organic?
- What are some books or authors that you would recommend to our readers?
- Tell us what you enjoy most about writing [insert your genre].
- What have you found to be most challenging about writing in [insert your genre]?
- Have you been able to incorporate your previous experience in your jobs/education in your writing?
- Do you identify with your main character, or did you create a character that is your opposite?
- Describe the [book/series] in 10 words or less for people just learning about it.
- Is there anything you would like people to take away from your book?
- Do you have any odd (writing) habits?
- What has been the toughest criticism you have received as an author? What has been the best compliment?
- Share some advice for aspiring authors. What advice would you give to your younger self?
- What is your favorite line from your book?
- To date, what is your favorite (or most difficult) chapter you have ever written?
- What is your take on book boyfriends? Do they actually exist? Or do they set the bar for “real-life men” impossibly high?
- Have you ever experienced writer’s block? How did you deal with it?
- What do you like to do when you’re not writing?
Author interview questions more specific for children’s books (and can choose general ones from above as well):
- Share some of your journey to publishing your children’s book.
- How did you select your topic?
- Did you get to pick your illustrator? How do you feel about illustrations in children’s books?
- Do you have a special connection with your children’s book topic or characters?
- What do you hope to teach or inspire in children reading your book?
- Describe the child that is your target reader.
- How do your children enjoy the book(s) you published?