Question and Answer with Canadian Author Heather Beck

David: You began writing your first novel when you were only sixteen.  How did people react when they found out about your plan to be an author?

Heather: So much has happened since then that it’s hard to recall people’s reactions.  “Becoming” an author was a gradual process.  It began at a young age with love for reading and writing.

David: You like reading and writing – many people do.  What made you want to become an author?

Heather: Apart from my love for writing I really don’t know why I’d get involved in such an unstable business.  The only explanation is that I had a manuscript I believed in.

David: What did it feel like to receive your first book publishing contract?

Heather: I was happy, to say the least.  It actually didn’t take that long to find a publisher for The Paradise Chronicles.  I began solicitation in October of 2004.  The manuscript was rejected three times before finding a home at Treeside Press on August 2004.

David: How soon after completing The Paradise Chronicles did you start writing Fable Farm #1 Echoes of the Strange?

Heather: Almost immediately; give or take a few months.  At that point I was addicted.

David: Why did you choose to contact publishers directly other than getting an agent?

Heather: I have an interest in becoming an agent at some point in my life.  I wanted to have first hand experience in every aspect of the book publishing business.

David:  What books are you currently reading?

Heather: Nothing other than the required reading for university.

David: What authors have influenced you in the past?

Heather: Tennessee Williams and Jack London.

David: Have you had the chance to meet fellow authors?

Heather: Yes.  I’ve met many Canadian authors.  The most famous author I’ve met is Francine Pascal.

David: What is next for you?

Heather: I’ve recently signed a contract for another book.  I’ve also taken up screenwriting.  I’ve written a feature, several shorts, and a thirteen episode television show!

David: That’s quite an undertaking.  How do you manage to do so many things?

Heather: I have great time management skills.

David: Is there anything else you’d like to accomplish?

Heather: I would love to run my own magazine that features up-and-coming Canadian talent.

David: You have so many ambitions! I feel bad for taking up your time.  Thanks for the interview.  Now go and create!

Be sure to check out http://heatherbeck.tripod.com/ for a full collection of Heather’s work as well as updates.

Happy Reading,

David.