Interview with Venessa Bellido Schwarz

What inspires you to write?

The power of words inspire me to write. Whenever I read stories by good writers I am inspired by how craftily they arrange words on a page, like the way a florist arranges flowers in a vase. I love words. I love to see them in a book waiting to be read. I love when words inspire change, when they give joy or hope to someone.

Could you share some of your challenges as a writer?

There are many, but my biggest obstacle is self-doubt. Every writer or creative-type goes through similar feelings. Brushing aside negative feelings and thoughts of self-doubt helps me to free the space inside my head to write better; and, writing better is what we all want.

What are your current/future projects?

My current project is pitched as the Little House books meet West Side Story. Based on a true story, this middle grade novel is about belonging, acceptance, and finding one’s place in the world. My work-in-progress is a prequel to this novel. Also based on a true story, it’s about rich relatives, the death of an alcoholic mother, and a lost inheritance. It is tentatively titled, Ella on the Corner of Cranberry Street.

Do you have a routine you follow when writing?

I try to write every day. Sometimes I’ll write by hand in a notebook or even scribble a few sentences on a napkin or jot down a couple of ideas in my phone. But mostly, I type several hours a day on my computer or laptop.

If you could go back in time and give yourself advice, what would it be?

Don’t stop believing. And yes, Journey would be playing in the background. Great band.

What is your preferred method for readers to get in touch with you?

I would love to hear from my readers! Please get in touch by Twitter @VenessaAnn and or email me at venessa.bellido@gmail.com