Ann Herrick is the award-winning author of several books and short stories for kids and teens. Included in the awards her books have won are the ALA Recommended Book for Reluctant Readers, IRA/CBC Children’s Choice and EPIC Best YA Novel Finalist.

Ann grew up in Connecticut, where she graduated from The Morgan School and Quinnipiac University. She now lives in Oregon. While she misses the East Coast, especially houses built before 1900, she enjoys the green valleys, fresh air and low humidity in the Willamette Valley of Oregon. Ann loves cats, walking, the Oregon Ducks, and working in her back yard. In addition to stories and books for children and young adults, Ann also writes copy for humorous and conventional greeting cards. She loves to hear from her readers and can be contacted through her web site: http://annherrickauthor.com.

 

INTERVIEW WITH ANN HERRICK

How did you get started writing?

When I was eleven I tried to write and publish my first book, but got caught up in the mechanics of it (this was before home computers!) and gave up after a few chapters. I tried again when I was 14, but never finished that book either. Several years later, a friend learned of my interest in writing and invited me to attend a writing group meeting. I went, started writing once more and haven't stopped since.

 

Who influenced you?

My parents. One of my first memories is of them reading to me and that fostered my love of reading, which led to my interest in writing. In regard to authors, there are so many, from Jane Austen to Sarah Dessen.

 

Do you have a favorite book/subject/character/setting?

With my own books I have no favorites. All the stories, characters and setting are special to me. I have many favorite books by other authors, of course, but one that stands out is Pride and Prejudice. I love Elizabeth's wit and good sense, and her pride in her own wit. She makes mistakes in judging some people, but learns from those mistakes. I love the setting of the Regency Era in England. 

 

What advice do you have for someone who wants to be an author?

Just start! And don't quit. It may be a cliché, but persistence does pay off.

 

Where is your favorite place to write?

In a room built over our garage. It's cozy and quiet and yet has easy access to the rest of the house. There are plenty of windows, but they are next to me and in back of me, which I find less distracting than if they were in front of me.

 

What else would you like to tell us? 

I'd like to thank LitPick for interviewing me and the reviewer for the wonderful review of Trading Faces. Also, I'd like to stress again the advice to not give up on something that really interests you. I know too many aspiring writers who gave up because of a few early rejections or discouraging reviews. Keep at it and your writing will improve. You may not become a mega-bestselling author, but you will find your own success.

My publishers are Jamie Hill and Jude Pittman of Books We Love, Ltd., a small, independent publisher. If you'd like to contact them, they can be reached at bookswelove@shaw.ca .