CHANA THOMPSON

Interview with Chana

 

Why did you write Krista Pompey?

After reading and watching a number of children’s books and movies with my own children, I had the feeling that something was missing in the shows and books we were watching. This feeling of dissatisfaction rose and with it an idea slowly grew of a story. I got a basic idea and then started typing. The result is Krista Pompey, The Becoming, the first book of the trilogy.

 

How did you become interested in the topic?

I’ve always had an interest in something magical or phenomenal. Creating the young girl, Krista, was part of this process. Krista came alive and was special and mystical. She fascinated me and as I wrote I got to know her better and better. Then, I was hooked and couldn't stop writing until the first book was finished.

 

What did you hope to accomplish by publishing your books?

I am reaching out to a reader base of older children to fun adults who are interested in taking a journey with us. While our main character is a child, she is forced to address some very adult issues. This makes her situation of interest to a variety of age groups. I want others to share in this experience.

 

Who is your intended readership?

As I just mentioned, older children (pre-teen and older) will love Krista’s world. She is dealing with many of their issues, but the new challenge given to her makes the book interesting to adults as well.

 

When did you realize you wanted to be a writer?

I started writing as a child, beginning with short stories. Years afterwards, I wrote song lyrics. After the birth of my second child, the concept blossomed deep inside to write this first book. Worlds of thought continued to be released, and the trilogy was born. They soared from my fingertips bursting with inspiration. It was another birth.

 

Why do you write?

I write because I’m a very creative person. My creativity seeks constantly an outlet. I’ve danced, sung, painted and still do these things from time to time, but my first loves were the word and art. Beauty and form speak to me.

 

How long did it take you to write the books?

I probably finished the actual story within 3 to 6 months, but I kept going over it and refining it and enhancing it. The process of shaping the book in its entirety took almost 2 years. I also finished the second book of the trilogy and the third book is in its first draft form.

 

How did you research the books?

I was inspired by places I’ve been to and had to, of course, find out more details regarding these locations. The internet was an amazing help. The experience of all the people I've met everywhere I go was my other source of research. I've lived in international places and met people from all over the world. They are my other inspiration. 

 

What surprised you about the process of writing books?

What surprised me the most is the way the characters come to life, almost of their own volition. Spell check and a dictionary also helps! Krista’s emergence from the pages is the birth of a virtual child.

 

What do you like to do when you're not writing?

When I am not writing, I love to go on a long walk and sing to myself. I watch nature and marvel at the world around me. Family time is high on my list of activities. Kids grow so quickly so times with them are precious to me. When it is possible, I love to travel and explore new places. My other great love is dancing.

 

Are you working on another book?

Krista Pompey, The Becoming, is the first book of a trilogy and it is completed as well as the second book, The Test Zone. The third book is nearing completion. It is a wonderful experience and will certainly be of interest to those, who after reading the first two books, want to know will transpire next on Krista Pompey’s journey.

 

Aren’t all romances, mysteries, true crimes, suspense, action-adventures the same?

To say all forms of fiction are the same is the same as saying all people are alike. Each book has its own character, special form, and individuality. Like people, some we like more than others. This is according to our own individual needs. I find it wonderful to jump into the world someone else or myself created. Different than a film, our imagination is at play and it enhances the creative process. Of course, I love films as well. I just feel each art form be it books, paintings, photography, music, or for example, installations, expresses and stimulates something different.