Author Interview
What books/authors have influenced you and why? The books I remember most from my childhood are the Amelia Bedelia series by Peggy Parish, Beverly Cleary’s Ramona Quimby books, L.M. Montgomery’s Anne of Green Gables series, and of course, Little Women by Louisa May Alcott. I think these books inspired me to always have the confidence to follow my dreams no matter the obstacles. These stories also gave me the gift of being able to see humor in everyday life and to always look at situations from a different perspective.
How do you develop your plot and characters?
My writing is truly inspired by the silliness, inquisitiveness and laughter of children, especially my own. I think that one of the greatest joys in life is a child’s laughter; you know, that deep, belly laugh that comes when something is truly funny! When I can see the ordinary world through the eyes of a child, there’s always a story there! I pay close attention when my kids look up at me in wonder, point to something and exclaim, “Look, Mommy!” For me, those moments hold the key to their imagination and lead me to many of my story ideas.
What are your current/future projects?
Oh, goodness! I have quite a list of stories that are in the works! You might see a return of “Stinky Feet” or be reading about dinosaurs, farmers, sheep, popsicles, or even carrots! You never know what silly thing I might be writing about next!
Do you have a routine you follow when writing?
The only thing consistent about following a routine in my writing would be the lack of one! Quiet time to write is a rare commodity in my house! You’ll most often find me writing somewhere in-between my kids’ shenanigans and mundane household tasks. I have found that developing my story ideas can be done at the park, waiting in line at the grocery store, or washing dishes. As a busy mom, I use whatever time available to me each day!
What is your preferred method for readers to get in touch with you?
Interested readers are welcome to be part of my writing journey by following my Facebook page (@authorhdtorres). Or, they can also connect with me by email (authorhdtorres@gmail.com).
What does literary success look like to you?
To me, literary success would be walking into a library and finding my book on a shelf waiting to be discovered by an excited little reader! Growing up, I remember the excitement I felt after checking out my carefully selected stack of books from the library. I couldn’t wait to get home to see where the pages would take me or what interesting things I would learn. If my writing can make a child laugh or allow them to be silly then that is success! My biggest wish is to help children discover the joy of reading!
