Questions to Ask an Author
Thoughtful questions to ask authors about their writing process, inspiration, and craft that will help you understand their work and gain insights into the creative process.
1What inspired you to write this book?
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What inspired you to write this book?
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Why this works
Understanding the initial spark helps you appreciate the author's motivation and the story's origins.
2How long did it take you to write this book?
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How long did it take you to write this book?
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Why this works
Reveals the author's writing process and dedication, helping you understand the time investment required for creative work.
3What was your writing routine like?
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What was your writing routine like?
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Why this works
Learning about their daily habits can inspire your own creative process and show how successful writers structure their time.
4Did you always know how the story would end?
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Did you always know how the story would end?
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Why this works
Reveals whether they're a plotter or pantser, and how much of the story was planned vs. discovered during writing.
5Which character was the most difficult to write?
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Which character was the most difficult to write?
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Why this works
Shows the author's creative challenges and can reveal insights about character development and storytelling techniques.
6What research did you do for this book?
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What research did you do for this book?
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Why this works
Understanding their research process helps you appreciate the depth of their work and the effort behind authentic storytelling.
7How did you develop your writing voice?
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How did you develop your writing voice?
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Why this works
Learning about voice development can help aspiring writers understand how to find and develop their own unique style.
8What was the biggest challenge in writing this book?
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What was the biggest challenge in writing this book?
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Why this works
Reveals the author's creative struggles and problem-solving process, which can be inspiring and educational.
9Do you have any writing rituals or superstitions?
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Do you have any writing rituals or superstitions?
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Why this works
Shows the personal side of their creative process and can be entertaining while revealing their approach to creativity.
10What advice would you give to aspiring writers?
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What advice would you give to aspiring writers?
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Why this works
Direct wisdom from a successful author can provide valuable guidance for anyone interested in writing.
11How do you handle writer's block?
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How do you handle writer's block?
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Why this works
Practical advice for overcoming creative obstacles that many writers face.
12What's your favorite part of the writing process?
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What's your favorite part of the writing process?
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Why this works
Reveals what brings them joy in their craft and can help you understand the rewards of creative work.
13How do you know when a book is finished?
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How do you know when a book is finished?
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Why this works
Understanding their completion process can help with your own creative projects and decision-making.
14What books or authors influenced your writing?
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What books or authors influenced your writing?
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Why this works
Reveals their literary influences and can introduce you to new authors or books you might enjoy.
15How do you create realistic dialogue?
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How do you create realistic dialogue?
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Why this works
Practical writing advice that can help improve your own dialogue writing skills.
16What's the most important thing you've learned about writing?
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What's the most important thing you've learned about writing?
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Why this works
Condensed wisdom from their experience that can provide valuable insights for your own creative journey.
17How do you balance writing with other responsibilities?
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How do you balance writing with other responsibilities?
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Why this works
Practical advice for managing time and priorities while pursuing creative goals.
18What's your revision process like?
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What's your revision process like?
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Why this works
Understanding how they refine their work can help you improve your own editing and revision skills.
19How do you deal with criticism and rejection?
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How do you deal with criticism and rejection?
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Why this works
Valuable advice for handling the emotional challenges of creative work and professional setbacks.
20What's next for you as a writer?
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What's next for you as a writer?
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Why this works
Shows their future plans and can give you insight into their creative trajectory and upcoming projects.
Engaging with Authors
Expert tips and techniques for getting the most out of these questions.
Preparing for the Conversation
Read Their Work
Familiarize yourself with their books, articles, or other writing before the conversation. This shows respect and allows for more meaningful questions.
Research Their Background
Learn about their writing journey, previous works, and any unique aspects of their background that might inform their writing.
Prepare Specific Questions
Have thoughtful questions ready, but also be prepared to follow up on their answers with deeper inquiries.
Key Areas to Explore
Creative Process
Craft and Technique
Professional Journey
Conversation Etiquette
Be Respectful of Their Time
Authors often have busy schedules. Be mindful of time limits and don't overstay your welcome.
Avoid Spoilers
Don't give away plot points or endings from their books, especially if others haven't read them yet.
Don't Ask for Writing Advice
While some authors enjoy giving advice, don't assume they want to critique your work or provide free writing coaching.