(Interview) Kerry Sparks

As you know I have read and reviewed Frost Bites and Jen and the Frosted Friends by Kerry Sparks this week and now today I am lucky enough to share an interview that I got to do with her.

I was really excited when Kerry contacted me in December about her two middle grade books and when I asked about a Q&A she was more then willing to help out. Thank so much Kerry, I appreciate you taking the time out of your busy schedule to do this with me.

CINDY: I read that you have traveled quite a bit, do you have a favorite place and why?

KERRY: It’s a crazy place but Las Vegas. I lived there for 5 years, and I think it’s a very inspiring city where anything can happen. Las Vegas is open to the arts, and the Las Vegas librarians were very supportive of new writers.

CINDY: I have never been to Las Vegas but hoping one day to go. I love a city that is very supportive of their libraries. What would readers be surprised to discover about you? (A quirky fact)

KERRY: I do not like anything slimy. So no frogs, no olives, no cooked spinach. Things with slimy textures gross me out.

CINDY: I am like you I don’t like anything slimy. I get cold chills just thinking about it. When your not writing your own books, do you have a favorite author to read? What are you currently reading?

KERRY: I really enjoyed “A Reliable Wife” by Robert Goolrick. It was a #1 New York Times bestseller. I like stories that are different with lots of twists and turns. I’m going to start “Sarah’s Key” by Tatiana De Rosnay today.

CINDY: I read and loved A Reliable Wife. I actually have Sarah’s Keys on my TBR pile. When your writing do you listen to music? Who is currently playing? Do your characters have a theme song?

KERRY: I only listen to music when I’m in my car. When I write, I like it so quiet that I can hear a pin drop. If my characters had a theme song it would be “Girls Just Wanna Have Fun”.

CINDY: That is such a great song. Do you have a routine when you write? Any must haves while writing?

KERRY: I always write in a notebook, and I’m usually laying down. I like to have a snack nearby as well. I think you have to be comfortable while you’re writing so that the writing is continuous and flowing.

CINDY: I agree Kerry. I am like that when I am reading and blogging. You do have to be comfortable. What was the inspiration behind both books? Are the girls based on anyone you know?

KERRY: I was a substitute teacher for 7 years so I probably have a little bit of Mrs. Frost, (the mean substitute teacher), in me. I wouldn’t say that I was mean, but I didn’t let the kids run wild either.

CINDY: You were a substitute teacher? I didn’t know that. I am sure you were a good substitute. Do you have a favorite character in the books? If so who?

KERRY: I like Jennifer Logan, the main character. She is fun, funny, and she isn’t perfect. Her imperfections make her human. I would definitely hang out with her.

CINDY: I adore Jennifer as well. She is your typical girl and I honestly felt bad for the way she got treated. It brought back alot of memories for me when I was that age. Thanks again for everything Kerry.

KERRY: No Thank you!

I just wanted to send out another huge thank you to the following bloggers:
L. Diane Wolfe, Laura, and Shelly for offering up some great interview questions for me. Thank you so much.