Exclusive Interview with
Lizy J. Campbell
Let’s start with your Career as a writer!
When did you start writing?
I started writing a long time ago as a child and loved it. But after a while I had stopped. I began again in my early thirties and found it to be quite cathartic.
What makes writing your passion?
I love telling stories! I want kids and adults to enjoy it too. I feel I must write because it is a part of who I am.
How long have you been writing?
I have been writing consistently now for 8 years. Only in the last 3 have I written children's books which I really enjoy.
What was the feeling when you published your first book?
It was amazing! And it continues to be. Everytime it comes out I feel a new wave of excitement and possibilities.
What’s the story behind your choice of characters?
I loved small things as a child and I wanted to bring that in my children's series character. Most ideas come instantly and I run with it.
What annoys you the most in pursuing a writing career?
I feel that because you can
With Self publishing now it really takes away from those who make career's out of it. Sometimes we get lost in the mix because of the saturation of the market.
How do you get over the “writer’s block”?
I don't force it, I appreciate the ideas when they come. If I like it I will continue to write it and if not I let it go and wait for the next idea to hit me.
We all know the writer’s path is never easy, what makes you keep going? What advice would you give to new authors?
I just love writing, it really doesn't matter if it becomes number one. As long as I'm happy to write it then I will continue to do so.
Advice? Write because you're compelled to write it otherwise it isnt worth the time.
If you could go back in time and talk to your younger self, what would you say?
Write more and don't stop!
Do you read your book reviews? How do you deal with the bad ones?
A review whether bad or good is someone's opinion and we dont all like the same thing so it doesn't matter.
What is the feeling when you get a good review?
I feel like I have connected with them and it makes me happy.
Have you ever incorporated something that happened to you in real life into your novels?
Yes in my poetry book METAMORPHOSIS I have written some personal piece's.
Which of your characters you can compare yourself with? Did you base that character on you?
I dont base them on myself I usually take it from people I've met or knew.
What do you think, the book cover is as important as the story?
It is, as an Illustrator I strive to put my best foot forward in that regard. But like all books sometimes you cant judge a book by its cover .
Do you connect with your readers? Do you mind having a chat with them or you prefer to express yourself through your writing?
I don't mind hearing their thoughts. It can be quite enlightening and enjoyable.
How do you feel when people appreciate your work or recognize you in public?
I feel like a million bucks!
Who is your favorite author? Why?
I have too many!
What’s the dream? Whom would you like to be as big as?
I would love to be as big as Dr. Seuss ! They are amazing books even to this day.
Would you rewrite any of your books? Why?
No not really. I think the story when told reflect the time I wrote it so I wouldn't want to redo it.
If you could switch places with any author – who would that be?
Oh wow, I think I would switch with China Melville he's Brilliant!
What would you say to the “trolls” on the internet? We all know them – people who like to write awful reviews to books they’ve never read or didn’t like that much, just to annoy the author.
I dont worry about it, they will always be there so why make a fuss.
What would you say to your readers?
I hope you enjoy my books and get something out of them. A laugh or a smile even a tear. Then I know you felt what I was writing and that is amazing to me.
Thank you for sharing! Let’s talk about your Personal Life!
Share a bit about yourself – where do you live, are you married, do you have kids?
I live in Canada Ontario. I have 2 kids and work from home as an Illustrator and author. Also have an online Etsy shop for customized pet portrait paintings!
What is your day job if you have one?
I do. I work for publishing companies.
What are your hobbies? What do you do in your free time?
I love to read, knit, bicycle and go for walks.
Did you have a happy childhood?
It was difficult but it made me stronger for it.
Is there a particular experience that made you start writing?
I was doing illustrations for other people and the desire grew very strong to the point of just 'I have to do this! '
Do you have unpublished books? What are they about?
I do, its various styles and ideas. Fantasy fiction and some others.
What do you think should be improved in the education of our children? What do we lack?
To encourage more reading!
If you were allowed 3 wishes – what would they be?
For everyone to be in good health.
To always have a little Sunshine.
For everyone to have the opportunity to do what they love in life.
What is your favorite music?
I have a lot of different tastes in music. Metal, alternative, classical, dance. Etc!
Share a secret with us 🙂
I will never stop writing!