Review: DRIVE by Stephanie Fournet
I have loved everything I’ve read from Stephanie Fournet, and DRIVE did not disa[...]
Today, Donna Cooner is stopping by for a Q&A feature for the “How I Write” Colorado Book Month Edition! Many thanks to Donna for answering my questions!
About the author:
Donna Cooner was born and raised in Texas. A former teacher and school administrator, she now teaches teachers and principals at Colorado State University where she is the director of the School of Teacher Education and Principal Preparation. Donna is the author of over twenty picture books and was a founding member of the Brazos Valley Society of Children’s Bookwriters and Illustrators. She has also written children’s television shows for PBS and textbooks for future teachers. SKINNY is her debut novel for young adults. She lives in Fort Collins, Colorado, with her two labs and a cat named Stu. She is a big fan of chocolate and laughing (not necessarily in that order).
Are you a planner (outline, etc.) or do you “pants” it?
I’m a bit of both. I usually start the process by a lot of free writing with scenes I think will make it into the final draft. Later, I move scenes around and write a more structured outline to strengthen the structure and add layers.
Do you write daily or sporadically when you’re inspired?
I squeeze in writing whenever I can. I have a full time job as a professor and college administrator at Colorado State University. It’s a very hectic job at times, so writing typically happens in early mornings, late nights, or weekends.
What time of day do you find you write best? Or you enjoy more?
I enjoy writing most in the morning, but not too early! I’m not an early morning person.
Where is your favorite place to write?
I just redecorated my writing loft and I love the space. There’s plenty of counter space, a big wall board for scene visualization, and a comfy writing recliner for late nights. I typically write there or at a local coffee shop in the mornings before I go into the office.
What tool(s) do you use to write? Microsoft Word, Pages, Scrivener, typewriter, pen and paper, and/or napkins/toilet paper?
I write in Microsoft Word and use my iPad with Pages when I travel.
How do you stay motivated?
I believe in all kinds of mind games and rewards for keeping the words flowing. I think I’ve tried about everything. This particular draft for Book 2 has been especially challenging so I’m trying a new motivation tool. Every day I open the manuscript is celebrated with a tiny star on my wall calendar. Stars are color coded to indicate how good the writing went, but just opening the manuscript is a star worthy day in my mind.
What resources do you recommend for new writers?
Twenty years ago, I was one of the founding members of the Texas Brazos Valley Society of Children’s Bookwriters and Illustrators. SCBWI has, and continues to be, one of my primary resources for writing and publishing. The regional and national conferences are especially helpful for new writers who need information, connections and support to break into a complex business.
What types of writing events have you participated in (NaNoWriMo, conferences, workshops, etc.)? Which was your favorite?
The right writing conference at the right time is a career changer. I read the first few pages of SKINNY at the SCBWI national conference in New York City a couple of years ago. The feedback and enthusiasm from the agent in my critique group encouraged me to complete, and eventually sell, my debut novel. I met my wonderful writing group, the YAMuses, at the Big Sur Writing Conference, so it also holds a close spot in my heart. I know many writer friends who met agents, editors, and sold books at conferences. It gets us out from behind the computer screen and into the business/people side of the writing life.
More “How I Write” Q&As!
