Tell us about yourself.
Professionally, I have been around the "world of words" most of my life, having been a freelance journalist for over 20 years. Yes, I've been published in the print vehicles "The Bristol Herald Courier" (VA) "Roanoke Times" (VA- Travel and editorials), "Virginia Journal of Education, " " Blueridge Country (print and online) and others.
I've also taught a little at R. U. (VA) and been a Master naturalist since 2008. I enjoy reading, hiking, doing the potluck at church, keeping up with current events. I'm also married with 3 sons. I' m also a cancer survivor with a big interest in science.
Where did you grow up, and how did this influence your writing?
I grew up in a suburban area on Long Island (NY). My parents were the kids of immigrants (from Worcester, MA). I grew up at a time when there were more kids in the neighborhood, but my parents were not big readers. They never took me to the public library. I read my first book, on my own, "Understood Besty" by Dorothy Canfield, when I was 12. Only I think as a joke or something that I one time got with 2 other girls in the neighborhood and come up with the idea of a character a bit like "Oliver Twist," but she was an orphan girl encouraged to join the circus away from the nuns running it, during the Depression. I read a few biographies after that idea did NOT turn into a book.
What was your journey to getting published like?
My husband had problems with his school system (unaccountable principals and the superintendent was worse). So I did some research and decided to write "Let's Run Our Schools Together." I found Infinity Publishing and I used a bonus from my surveys-over-the-phone job to get it self published. I am now with booklocker.com, and they've published 3 books (and an eBook) for me now.
Also, I have written nonfiction but am starting to write a novel, a satire.
What’s the best piece of feedback you’ve ever received?
I think it was when I was trying to write a mystery novel one critic didn't understand the point of the male friend/sidekick in the story, so I had to rethink some of his actions. And writer Anne Lamott said something about going "Bird by Bird," step by step. I think organizing and structuring your book in the beginning really helps.
What advice would you give to aspiring writers?
They say write every day. Really, try to write most days and have some kind of schedule, and maybe have an "accountability" friend to see that you do. Even put on a calendar what you are going to finish and when, whether it is nonfiction or fiction.
What’s a fun fact about you that your readers might not know?
With the right shoes I can do "the mashed potato" dance. I'm a huge "Frasier" fan. I'm a chocoholic, one reason I can't seem to lose weight.
What’s your guilty pleasure book or genre?
I like humor and books about humor.
What’s your favorite quote about writing?
{I don't really have one, but advice from writer Anne Lamott is philosophical and helpful for life in general.
When you’re not writing, how do you like to spend your time?
I read, I watch too much TV, and I have been planning to go to ANOTHER national park! Yellowstone was so interesting, and Lassen Volcanic National Park was actually pretty. Explore nature — walk, hike, picnic. I am starting a book on visiting Virginia parks too.
Do you remember the first story you ever read, and the impact it had on you?
As I said, my first book, (not required to read) was "Understood Betsy." I think she was a maid and maybe it encouraged me to read other books.
What has inspired you and your writing style?
I guess because I've been a journalist, nonfiction is not as hard to write and structure. I'm not sure who inspired my style, but as for fiction, I have enjoyed the writing of humorous writers Carl Hiassen and Nora Ephron, and the satire of Kurt Vonnegut. I'd like to write a novel using some of their styles. With nonfiction, I have read many, many different authors.
How do you deal with negative reviews?
Well, I don't like them, and try not to use them (like putting them on my website — at least, not the negative part).
How do you connect with your readers?
Well, I'm on Facebook, X/Twitter, Medium, LinkedIn at various times, and my own website.
What’s next for you as a writer?
I want to get a satiric novel done, and a short eBook on Sustainability and saving the planet. No biggie.
Are there any Easter eggs or hidden messages in your work?
No, but with fiction I guess you can interpret things different ways.
How do you approach writing dialogue for your characters?
I read what other authors do and think of something snappy.
If you could share one thing with your fans, what would that be?
Let me know you like my work and will buy my book(s). Let me know when you've been out in nature. It helps.
Ms. D. J. Mathews’s Author Websites and Profiles
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