Deanie Humphrys-Dunne Interview Published on: 28, Mar 2017
Tell us about your life and your struggles
I was raised at a riding school in Connecticut called Sweetbrier. The single passion of my childhood was to become a champion horseback rider, but the odds were against success because I was born with cerebral palsy, affecting my legs. However, my parents refused to accept the doctor’s prediction I would never walk, so we set out to prove the doctor wrong. Our journey was a long one, filled with failures and small victories. One of the best things my parents instilled in me was to never give up. There were many days where all I did was fall off my pony and get on again. But, in my heart, I knew all things were possible through perseverance. I felt if I worked hard enough, the rewards would come.
How passionate are you about writing?I’m extremely passionate about writing stories for children and young adults. My goal is to work tirelessly to ensure I present my best work; entertaining stories with valuable lessons. Children are our future and they need a healthy work ethic and good character to guide them through both good and difficult times.
How long have you been writing and what inspired you to become a writer?My first book was published in 2009, but I studied writing before that. My parents inspired me to write. They believed I had the talent to write and inspire children.
How did you get the idea for your first book?I had a strong intuition to write a story about growing up at Sweetbrier and overcoming adversity because it could encourage children to reach for their dreams. I felt my journey from a handicapped child to a champion rider would prove anything can be done if you refuse to quit. After the idea came, I asked my sister, Holly Humphrys-Bajaj, if she’d illustrate the book, and she agreed. She also designs the covers. Holly is an amazing artist and we have fun working together. My first book is Tails of Sweetbrier.
While choosing a name for your character, what aspects do you consider that determines what you finally call them?I consider the personalities of the characters and what they do in the stories. Many of my characters are animals. For example, Hattie the chicken loves to wear hats. We thought Wooliam was the perfect name for a soft, wooly sheep. Actually, my husband gets the credit for thinking up Wooliam’s name.
Do authors in general and you in particular plan series beforehand or do they just happen?Not always, but sometimes when I finish one book an idea comes as to how we could create a series. For instance, Charlie the Horse had a little sister named Charlene the Star. We did create a series of Charlene the Star books; Charlene the Star and Hattie’s Heroes and Charlene the Star and Bentley Bulldog. The first in that series, Charlene the Star is in the process of being released in a new edition.
How do you choose which stories to tell?I strive to write entertaining stories with important lessons. If I think the story fits that criteria, we choose to publish it. Most of my stories involve animal characters who narrate the plot. We like to highlight things like helping others, teamwork, perseverance, friendship, and setting goals.
Do you ever get writer’s block?Yes, when it happens, I usually take a break from writing and eventually, I get a new idea for a book.
Do you have a “reader” in mind while writing?I tailor the books to middle grade readers, or young adults, depending on the subject and the level of vocabulary used in the book. It’s often difficult to target an age because some children advance their reading skills quicker than others.
Who is the first person to read the first draft of your books?Usually, either my sister, my husband or our sons.
How do you get reviews? Which was the best review you ever got?Many authors offer to review them for me and sometimes people who have read other books of mine will choose to review the new one. I’ve gotten many excellent reviews. I don’t have a favorite.
What does the word “story” signifies for you?It would be an experience or a fictional tale I’d like to share with others.
Do you think an author should be bound by Genre?Not necessarily, but I think he/she should write for whatever genre they are most comfortable with.
Are you currently working on anything?Yes, as previously mentioned, Holly and I are working on our first picture book. I’m also revising some of my existing stories.
Do you have a special time or place for writing?I write at my desk, but I don’t have a specific time for it.
How do you promote your work? How will AllAuthor help you in your book promotion and sales, would you like to refer this platform to your author friends?Mostly though social media, such as Facebook and Twitter.I have also done several author interviews on sites such as Theauthorshow.com and blogtalkradio.com. AllAuthor will help by increasing my internet presence. I think the best way to increase sales is to introduce my work to as many people as possible. Holly and I also really enjoy doing book events at schools. We hope when our new picture book is released we can introduce it at libraries as well.
Would you like to share something with your readers and fans?I’d like to thank my readers and fans for their incredible support and wonderful comments regarding my books.
