About Christopher Francis:
Born in Brisbane, Australia, Christopher was accepted at age 19 into Sheridan College’s Animation program before earning a degree in Sociology from McMaster University.
He then enjoyed a two-year adventure overseas working with children, before completing his Bachelor of Education degree at York University. He is now
teaching junior and intermediate level students in Burlington, Ontario.
Through Christopher’s experience working with children, he found writing and illustrating to be one of his passions. Currently working on a middle grade series, he recently completed and illustrated the first three books. He has also created seven other children’s picture books and illustrated children’s novels for independent authors. His works all can be viewed on francisart.com.
What inspires you to write?
My students inspire me to write – working with middle-grade children, I always enjoyed reading to them. Throughout my career, I’ve become more and more inclined to share my own stories. Seeing the looks on their faces – their reactions to the events I have created, is extremely rewarding.
Tell us about your writing process.
I think of a theme (e.g., ghosts, camp)
I come up with a conflict
From there, I build an outline in point form, with a rough beginning, middle and end.
I fill in the details – again in point form.
As I begin to write, I’m open to the possibilities that my story may steer away from my original plan, but having a ‘plan’ brings comfort and confidence to my writing.
For Fiction Writers: Do you listen (or talk to) to your characters?
I become the characters – I question how they would react, respond, behave, move, etc. At times I do imagine myself talking to these characters as it helps me build an image and personality in my writing.
What advice would you give other writers?
Show your readers what is happening in your stories, don’t just tell them.
How did you decide how to publish your books?
I tirelessly pursued agents, until I finally landed one who guided me in the right direction. She has been my mentor in this long process.
I’d advice authors to master their craft – list to feedback, even if it stings. Becoming a writer takes time…be patient.
What do you think about the future of book publishing?
Good question – I believe there will always be book publishers – but am certain self-published books will continue to grow and compete with publishers. At some point there will be some major changes or shifts in how books get to the readers. Websites like “Wattpad” is a perfect example of the shift…
What do you use?: Professional Editor
What genres do you write?: Children, Middle-grade, Young Adult, Fiction, Paranormal, Fantasy
What formats are your books in?: Both eBook and Print
Website(s)
Christopher Francis Home Page Link
Link To Christopher Francis Page On Amazon
Your Social Media Links
Goodreads
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