Author Interview

Author Interview -- Shannon Hale

March 2004

Shannon Hale is the author of the young adult fantasy novel, THE
GOOSE GIRL, published by Bloomsbury.

Interview ala mode:


1--Why did you decide to become a writer?

I don't know that I decided. I tend to think that being a writer is some form of mental illness. I'm not happy unless I'm writing regularly, and there's nothing else that's ever given me as much satisfaction except my family.


2--Who is your favorite character that you have written?

I feel about my characters as I would about my children and I couldn't bear to name favorites. I did enjoy writing Enna Burning after Goose Girl because Enna was so different from Ani (the main character in Goose Girl). She had more spunk, boldness, made more mistakes, and the differences were fun for me.


3--If you could change one thing about being a writer, what would it be?

I wish it could support our family so I could always do it fulltime.


4--Do you remember the very first piece of fiction you wrote?

Yes! A short story in Kindergarten, we dictated the story to our teacher then did the illustrations. I remember there was a nasty witch with long green fingernails that might have been inspired by a nightmare I had.

5--Who are your favorite authors?

I have too many, but authors whose books I've read multiple times include Robin McKinley, Ursula LeGuin, Patricia McKillip, Tolkein, Austen, Joan Aiken, Lloyd Alexander, and C.S. Lewis.


6--Do you have any specific goals as a writer?

I make daily writing goals to keep me on track for each book. I have a goal to always be working on a book. I would also like to win a MacArthur Genius Grant. There's nothing I can do about that, but hey, wouldn't it be cool? 


7--What was your favorite book as a child?

I loved fairy tales. For awhile I remember it was Trumpet of the Swan by E.B. White, which was replaced by The Blue Sword.


8--What are you working on now?

Princess Academy, the third YA fantasy I'm doing for Bloomsbury. I'll also be proofing Enna Burning here shortly. It'll be released in August.


9--Do you ever write about UT?

I never have in my novels because they take place in invented lands.


10--What is the hardest thing about being a writer?

Just making myself do it every day. It's the hardest work I've ever done, probably because I care about it so much, and it's still a challenge just to get it done.


11--What is the easiest thing about being a writer?

Wanting to do it. I can't help it, I love it. As far as the process goes, rewriting is easier for me than creating a first draft.


12--What good advice do you have for people who want to be writers?

Do you really? If you're really, really sure, then read a lot and write the kinds of things you read. Don't be afraid of failing, and love the creative process more than you love the idea of being published. And try not to keep rice crackers by your computer because then you'll be addicted and always want to eat rice crackers every time you write. Not that it's ever happened to me.