Award-winning author Feather Chelle is a single mother living in Texas with her children and two grandpuppies, who are the center of her universe. She is totally blind due to a battle with Retinoblastoma, a cancer that both of her daughters also survived. As a result, part of the proceeds from her books go to several charities that aid families of children with terminal illnesses.
Her goal is to create fun and engaging books that portray an array of diverse characters who just happen to be undercover educators. Feather is the recipient of the Book Excellence, Pinnacle Achievement, Story Monsters, and the Mom’s Choice awards and was a finalist in the Wishing Shelf and American Book Fest contests.
1. What did you like to write and read as a kid?
I’ve always loved reading anything with an interesting story line. I read every braille book that I could get my hands on. I started writing stories in kindergarten and poetry in first grade, after discovering the works of Robert Frost.
2. What was your favorite subject in school?
I always loved language arts, science, and all other languages.
3. What’s your favorite genre to write?
I absolutely love writing in books for kids about animals. It’s so fascinating to try and think like animals do.
4. What inspires you?
I get ideas for books from every aspect of my life. Of course, I love animals, so those ideas come easily. I have a lot of interesting experiences as a blind person, so I work those into my books as well. I have worked with a lot of kids, and their antics often inspire fun story ideas.
5. Do you play music while you write, and, if so, what’s your favorite?
I always like to set the mood depending upon what I’m writing. For instance, when I was writing my memoir about growing up, I listened to popular 90’s music. When I write my marine biology fantasy series, I play ocean documentaries in the background.
6. What is the most valuable piece of advice you’ve been given about writing?
You cannot please everyone, so make sure you stay true to your vision and what makes you happy with your writing.
7. What are the essential characteristics of a hero you can root for?
I always root for the underdog, people who are determined to succeed against overwhelming odds.
8. Do you prefer E-books, printed books, or audio books most of the time?
I’ve always really loved reading books in braille, but they are pretty hard to come by these
days. Instead, I listen to audiobooks or have Alexa read aloud my books on Kindle, while I do things around the house.
9. Do you write more than one thing at a time?
I have dozens of projects going at all times. Sometimes, it’s hard to focus on just one, and it can cause writer’s block.
10. Do you carry around a journal to note inspiration?
I journal on my tablet or phone and put my ideas in Braille into a big file box later. I’ve always wanted to be able to use a real writing journal, but braille takes up a lot of room.
Feather, thank you for your fantastic and enlightening interview! Please give Feather a follow on her social media accounts and check out her author website!
Website: https://featherchelle.com/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/featherchelle/
Twitter/X: https://twitter.com/feather_chelle/
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