An Interview with Barbara O'Connor

Hello!

This past Sunday, I reviewed a really good book called On the Road to Mr. Mineo’s. {click here to read the review} Anyhoo, I was so happy when the author, Barbara O’Connor agreed to answer a few questions for me! They range from inspiration on Mr. Mineo to writing tips. Enjoy! :)

1. Where did you draw inspiration for Mr. Mineo?

I was originally going to center the story around racing pigeons. But after fiddling around with the story some, I changed to homing pigeons. I like including multi-generations in books for young readers, so I wanted Mr. Mineo to be an older man. He came to me fully formed with his dog, Ernie, in that trailer by the lake.

2. How do you create your characters?

Creating characters is my favorite part of writing. They always come to me very clearly. I work hard to give them unique personalities. In On the Road to Mr. Mineo’s, it was critical that each character be distinct from the others since there were so many points of view. For instance, I needed Stella to be quite different from Gerald.

3. Which character out of all your stories can you relate to the most?

I have a special fondness for Jennalee in Me and Rupert Goody. I think I relate a lot to her because the story is set in the Smoky Mountains, a place that is near and dear to my heart and where I spent a lot of time as a child.

4. What do you need while writing? {i.e.. Do you like to take breaks? Do you listen to music?}

I need silence and no distractions. I love to write in my yard or on my porch with my dogs at my feet and birds at the feeder. I try to stay focused and usually get a chapter done in one sitting.

5. Any other tips on writing?

I would encourage beginning writers to work hard to find their distinct voice – what sets your writing apart from that of others. The best way to do that is with experience. Read LOTS of books that have a voice you love. Then write until you begin to feel your voice developing. I am also a firm believer in following your instincts. If a piece of writing doesn’t feel right, then it most likely isn’t.

You can Barbara O’Connor’s website here.

Have a happy Wednesday!

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