Joanne Kukanza Easley interview

AUTHOR INTERVIEW


A little introduction:

My name is Joanne Kukanza Easley, and I write fiction about complicated, twentieth-century women. A retired registered nurse, I live and write in the Texas Hill Country.


When did your love of books begin?

My mother read to me every night, even as a baby. One of my earliest memories is sitting beside her as she read The Night Before Christmas to me. I memorized the book by the time I was four.


When did you start to have the wish to become an author?

By the time I was in fourth grade, I was an avid reader, especially Nancy Drew books. I immersed myself in Nancy’s world and wanted to create stories that captured the imagination. As a young teen, I read the latest novels from the library and especially loved the work of Shirley Jackson. From there, I started drafting a few short stories.


How have you found the process for becoming an author?

Writing is a craft and requires study before one’s ideas can be brought to life as readable fiction. Learning the rules of grammar and the art of narrative are a must. Also, I believe you must read a lot before you start writing, all genres.



What would you say to those wanting to become an author?

Study the craft, strive to improve, join a critique group and listen to the comments. Grow a thick skin and consider the feedback, then decide what suggestions work for you and what to ignore. And don’t give up!


Tell us about your book/books:

I have three published novels. Although I was with a small press to start, I got my rights back and re-released my first two novels as well as my third under my own imprint. My debut Sweet Jane has won over a dozen awards, including Adult fiction winner at the Texas Indie Author Project and a finalist for the Sarton Award. Just One Look, which begins in 1965 Chicago, was a May 2022 pick at the Pulpwood Queen’s book club. My latest novel, I’ll Be Seeing You, features characters from Sweet Jane and spans five decades in the life of Lauren Eaton, Jane’s AA sponsor.



What do you love about the writing/reading community?

I’ve made many friends in the writing community, both in person and virtually. I find them supportive and helpful, always willing to share their experience and knowledge. Recently a group of indie authors to which I belong created an anthology of stories about motherhood. A Million Ways will be released on April 7, 2023.


If you could say anything to your readers what would it be?

My novels are set in the 20th century, the time before cell phones and instant communication. Those were different times and unless they are commemorated in media, they will be forgotten. I write about flawed women who face tough, real-life problems, but I do like a happy ending.


Where can people connect with you?

Facebook  https://www.facebook.com/J.Easleywrites/

Twitter https://twitter.com/jeasleytx

Instagram https://www.instagram.com/joanneeasleywriter/



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