About Lisa Begin-Kruysman:
Lisa Begin-Kruysman writes from her home at the New Jersey Shore that she shares with her husband, Rich, and foster-to-forever dog, Teddy. Her works of Fiction and Non-Fiction are enjoyed world-wide as is her National Dog Week blog, launched in 2010 to promote dog welfare and the legacy of its founder, William Lewis Judy.
What inspires you to write?
As a dog-centric author, I love to read and discuss how the presence of dogs in our lives influence us. I call it “Divine Reciprocity” – they help us and we help them in so many ways. I love to share what I have learned with others through Fiction, and Non-fiction with a healthy infusion of history, too. I love provide readers with thought-provoking scenarios or to share something that is new to them. I tell aspiring young writers that there is enduring power in the written word.
Tell us about your writing process.
I always begin with handwritten drafts. There is something in the physical writing process that connects my heart to the story, almost literally! After I have my “sloppy copy” I do a fist draft on the word processor and then all edits to follow. I also write the final scene first so I know where I am going.
For Fiction Writers: Do you listen (or talk to) to your characters?
I write like I am watching a movie. I love writing dialogue, so I often listen to conversations going around me and I will think, “That’s what XXX would say!” Sometimes I write down interesting conversations as they are occurring.
What advice would you give other writers?
To write everyday, take courses or read books about the craft of writing. Read as often as your eyes allow. Do your research first so all material flows naturally. Be open to changes as your story unfolds. Listen to the ideas and critiques of others when they seem reasonable. Write with a great dog or other pet at your feet.
How did you decide how to publish your books?
I have been self-published and published by two traditional publishers. I am fortunate to have a literary agent. If she wants to rep something I have presented, then she can bring it to the “Big” guys. If it isn’t for her, I can go out on my own or publish it myself. There are so many options it can get confusing. You just have to keep trying. It also helps to find a niche and market with that niche in mind. It is very competitive out there.
What do you think about the future of book publishing?
I think we are in a new frontier. It is easier to publish now, but on the flip side, there is a lot of poor writing as a result.
What do you use?: Professional Editor, Professional Cover Designer
What genres do you write?: Biorgraphy, narrative non-fiction, children, Middle Grade, short stories
What formats are your books in?: Both eBook and Print
Website(s)
Lisa Begin-Kruysman Home Page Link
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