PBL: How did you come up with an idea for a virtual book club? Is the art of physical book clubs dying?
CAW: Patrice, I don't think physical book clubs are dying. In fact Conversations Book Club started in November 2006 with physical meetings and we still have them. The virtual book club actually came about as an extension so that others can join in the experience. We allow those around the world that want to be a part of the conversation to join us by phone and online. It makes for a more impactful discussion for sure, because you are able to get so many points of view. The internet has been a friend of readers, but to me nothing takes the place of sitting down with others to talk about a book.
PBL: What makes you such an advocate for literature?
CAW: Books have always been a friend of mine. Growing up I didn't have a lot of people I gravitated towards. Books introduced me to various characters and personalities and opportunities to learn about the world around me. When I finally started to travel, thanks to books I had a better idea of the places I was visiting. 3. What type of literature appeals to you most? I really like it all, but over the past few years I have been drawn more to non-fiction because I know that people sharing personal experiences with the world will help others going through similar situations. I use those kind of books to share with others to let them know they are not alone. Fiction can do the same thing in some ways, but there is something about the truth that resonates more with others.
PBL: When do you know that a particular title is going to satisfy your literary needs?
CAW: Sometimes I honestly don't! I have picked up some books that I thought would be great reads for me, and they ended up a struggle to finish. Others that I didn't think I would like ended up being some of my favorites. I think of the selection of books out there like a never-ending buffet. You just have to try something to see if you like it. You can't always tell by what it looks like.
PBL: In this age of technology do you find that eBooks are more popular than any other form of literature?
CAW: They might be more popular to some, but the hard copy remains my preferred choice. I get that for some the ease of carrying around lots of books on an electronic device is appealing, but there is nothing like cracking opening a book and having it in your hands.
PBL: What was the pivotal point in your life that made you want to become an advocate for authors? CAW: I would say it was meeting authors that might not be nationally known but who had such a powerful story that I felt it had to be shared. I've long dismissed the idea that only the best authors are picked up by the major houses. Sometimes it is the undiscovered authors out there that have a gift that just hasn't been discovered yet. That's why I do it. Everyone deserves to be heard.
PBL: What would you say to a writer struggling to become published?
CAW: Don't rush it and definitely don't take unnecessary risks. There are so many ways today to get your book out. Make sure it is the best product it can be, and if you can't get anyone to believe enough in it, then publish it yourself. Do your research either way, though. I've found some of these companies don't have the author's best interest in mind. Just don't give up. I read over 100 books a year, over half of them are self-published..and they're good! Don't let anyone stop you from pursuing your dream of being published.
PBL: Have you ever had to tell a writer that their work just wasn't good? If so, how did you tell them?
CAW: I made a role years ago that I would never EVER write a negative review. There's enough of that crap floating around the internet that I didn't think that was something I wanted to do. If I read a book that I felt wasn't for me, I may send the author an email or if they ask me my thoughts I'll tell them. What I learned though is that not all books are for everyone.
PBL: What is the most important thing you can say to an author?
CAW: Tell the story you have inside you the way you want to tell it, but don't expect overnight success. You have to work hard and dedicate yourself to it as you would anything else worth pursuing. Take advantage of all avenues available to you to get the word out about your book when published. If you are true to the craft and do your part, you'll be a success.
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