Good Questions to Ask Authors
Engaging questions to ask authors about their writing process, inspiration, and craft, whether you're meeting them at events, interviews, or book signings.
1What inspired you to write this book, and how did the idea first come to you?
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What inspired you to write this book, and how did the idea first come to you?
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Why this works
Reveals the creative spark and origin story behind their work, helping you understand their creative process.
2How long did it take you to write this book, and what was your writing routine?
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How long did it take you to write this book, and what was your writing routine?
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Why this works
Gives insight into their work habits and the time investment required to complete their work.
3What was the most challenging part of writing this book?
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What was the most challenging part of writing this book?
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Why this works
Reveals the obstacles they faced and how they overcame them, providing valuable insights into the writing process.
4How did you develop your characters, and are any of them based on real people?
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How did you develop your characters, and are any of them based on real people?
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Why this works
Explores their character development process and the relationship between fiction and reality.
5What research did you do for this book, and how did it influence your writing?
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What research did you do for this book, and how did it influence your writing?
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Why this works
Shows their commitment to accuracy and how research shapes their creative work.
6How do you handle writer's block, and what strategies work best for you?
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How do you handle writer's block, and what strategies work best for you?
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Why this works
Provides practical advice for overcoming creative obstacles and maintaining productivity.
7What is your editing process like, and how many drafts did this book go through?
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What is your editing process like, and how many drafts did this book go through?
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Why this works
Reveals their revision process and how they refine their work to achieve the final product.
8How do you balance writing with other responsibilities in your life?
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How do you balance writing with other responsibilities in your life?
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Why this works
Provides insight into time management and how to maintain a writing practice alongside other commitments.
9What books or authors have influenced your writing style?
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What books or authors have influenced your writing style?
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Why this works
Reveals their literary influences and how they've developed their unique voice.
10How do you know when a book is finished and ready to publish?
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How do you know when a book is finished and ready to publish?
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Why this works
Explores their decision-making process and how they determine when their work is complete.
11What advice would you give to aspiring writers who want to get published?
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What advice would you give to aspiring writers who want to get published?
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Why this works
Provides practical guidance for those looking to break into the publishing world.
12How do you handle criticism and negative reviews of your work?
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How do you handle criticism and negative reviews of your work?
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Why this works
Reveals their approach to feedback and how they maintain confidence in their work.
13What is your favorite part of the writing process, and what do you enjoy least?
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What is your favorite part of the writing process, and what do you enjoy least?
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Why this works
Helps you understand their creative preferences and what aspects of writing they find most rewarding.
14How do you come up with titles for your books, and do you ever change them?
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How do you come up with titles for your books, and do you ever change them?
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Why this works
Explores their approach to naming their work and how titles evolve during the writing process.
15What do you hope readers will take away from this book?
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What do you hope readers will take away from this book?
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Why this works
Reveals their intentions and what message or experience they want to share with their audience.
16How do you handle the pressure of deadlines and publishing expectations?
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How do you handle the pressure of deadlines and publishing expectations?
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Why this works
Provides insight into the professional aspects of writing and how they manage external pressures.
17What is your relationship with your editor, and how do you work together?
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What is your relationship with your editor, and how do you work together?
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Why this works
Explores the collaborative aspects of publishing and how authors work with their editorial team.
18How do you stay motivated during long writing projects?
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How do you stay motivated during long writing projects?
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Why this works
Provides strategies for maintaining enthusiasm and momentum over extended periods of work.
19What is the most rewarding part of being a published author?
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What is the most rewarding part of being a published author?
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Why this works
Reveals what they find most fulfilling about their career and the impact of their work.
20What are you working on next, and how does it differ from your previous work?
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What are you working on next, and how does it differ from your previous work?
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Why this works
Gives insight into their future projects and how their writing is evolving.
Engaging with Authors
Expert tips and techniques for getting the most out of these questions.
Preparing for Your Conversation
Read Their Work
Familiarize yourself with their books and writing style to ask informed questions.
Research Their Background
Learn about their career, influences, and previous work to ask more specific questions.
Prepare Your Questions
Write down your questions beforehand to ensure you cover all topics you're interested in.
Having a Great Conversation
Listen Actively
Pay attention to their responses and ask follow-up questions to deepen the conversation.
Be Respectful
Respect their time and expertise, and avoid asking overly personal or intrusive questions.
Share Your Experience
Share your own thoughts and experiences with their work to create a two-way conversation.
Following Up
Send Thank You Notes
Follow up with a thank you note expressing your appreciation for their time and insights.
Stay Connected
Follow their work and stay updated on their new projects and publications.
Apply Their Advice
Use their insights and advice in your own writing or creative pursuits.