Frequently Asked Questions
On Tales of an Alien Invader
How did you come up with the idea for Tales of an Alien Invader?
I came up with the idea for Tales of an Alien Invader after I had finished my first novel, a YA paranormal called Flawed. After receiving some feedback on the manuscript, I realized my true literary voice was actually middle grade, not young adult, so I began to brainstorm ideas for a middle grade novel while lying in bed. In one of those rare moments of inspiration, the story about an alien being sent to Earth to decide the fate of humanity started to form in my mind. Excited, I grabbed a notebook and kept jotting down ideas as the came to me. By the end of that day, the tentative outline for Tales of an Alien Invader had been developed.
How long did it take you to write Tales of an Alien Invader?
Being a teacher, summer time is my favorite time to write. I came up with the idea for Tales of an Alien Invader in June and had finished the first draft by the end of August. I took it through one quick revision before letting it sit for awhile after having my second child at the end of October (I figured he deserved my full attention, and, in fact, demanded it :)) After taking it through a couple more revisions, I was offered a contract by Pants on Fire Press in May, 2013.
Are there going to be more books about Felix and the rest of the gang?
I hope so! Tales of an Alien Invader is meant to be a series; I plan on writing two or three more books for the series.
Why science fiction?
Science fiction and fantasy are hands-down my favorite genres to read, so it seemed natural to write a novel in one of those genres for my debut. I already have several other story lines for different series bouncing around in my head, begging to be written, and they are all science fiction and fantasy. Would I ever write in a different genre, such as realistic fiction or historical fiction...maybe, but definitely not any time soon!
How did Tales of an Alien Invader get published?
After sending out the manuscript to some agents, several who expressed interest but failed to make an actual offer of representation, I decided to look into publishing with a small press. After completing an exhaustive amount of research, I submitted my manuscript to three small presses. Pants on Fire Press showed interest immediately, promptly read the manuscript, and made an offer of publication.
On Writing
Have you always wanted to be a writer?
Yes, since my early teenage years. My love of reading fostered a love for writing, and I dreamed about seeing my words in print.
What advice do you have for other writers?
You need to persevere, develop a thick skin, seek out feedback from others (it's valuable beyond measure), and learn as much as you can about the publishing.
How did you come up with the idea for Tales of an Alien Invader?
I came up with the idea for Tales of an Alien Invader after I had finished my first novel, a YA paranormal called Flawed. After receiving some feedback on the manuscript, I realized my true literary voice was actually middle grade, not young adult, so I began to brainstorm ideas for a middle grade novel while lying in bed. In one of those rare moments of inspiration, the story about an alien being sent to Earth to decide the fate of humanity started to form in my mind. Excited, I grabbed a notebook and kept jotting down ideas as the came to me. By the end of that day, the tentative outline for Tales of an Alien Invader had been developed.
How long did it take you to write Tales of an Alien Invader?
Being a teacher, summer time is my favorite time to write. I came up with the idea for Tales of an Alien Invader in June and had finished the first draft by the end of August. I took it through one quick revision before letting it sit for awhile after having my second child at the end of October (I figured he deserved my full attention, and, in fact, demanded it :)) After taking it through a couple more revisions, I was offered a contract by Pants on Fire Press in May, 2013.
Are there going to be more books about Felix and the rest of the gang?
I hope so! Tales of an Alien Invader is meant to be a series; I plan on writing two or three more books for the series.
Why science fiction?
Science fiction and fantasy are hands-down my favorite genres to read, so it seemed natural to write a novel in one of those genres for my debut. I already have several other story lines for different series bouncing around in my head, begging to be written, and they are all science fiction and fantasy. Would I ever write in a different genre, such as realistic fiction or historical fiction...maybe, but definitely not any time soon!
How did Tales of an Alien Invader get published?
After sending out the manuscript to some agents, several who expressed interest but failed to make an actual offer of representation, I decided to look into publishing with a small press. After completing an exhaustive amount of research, I submitted my manuscript to three small presses. Pants on Fire Press showed interest immediately, promptly read the manuscript, and made an offer of publication.
On Writing
Have you always wanted to be a writer?
Yes, since my early teenage years. My love of reading fostered a love for writing, and I dreamed about seeing my words in print.
What advice do you have for other writers?
You need to persevere, develop a thick skin, seek out feedback from others (it's valuable beyond measure), and learn as much as you can about the publishing.