BOOK CLUB FRIDAY--GUEST AUTHOR VIVIENNE MUNN

Vivienne Munn sits down for an interview today. Vivienne’s focus is on children and conveying important messages by utilizing illustrations, pictures and games. Learn more about her and her books at her website. 

When did you realize you wanted to write novels?

I loved to read in elementary school. Every Saturday, I was at the library collecting new books and spending countless hours reading. As a result of an unforeseen accident, which caused me to leave medicine, I returned to my first love of educating and empowering children. I always tutored my nieces and nephews, designing math problems or science projects, which explained the subject matter in simple terms. My love of education, is a natural path, and I am passionate about working with children. I realized I can achieve this through my writing.

How long did it take you to realize your dream of publication?

As a former dental-health professional, I co-authored a paper on Healthy Eating and Oral Hygiene. Last year, I was able to publish my children’s first book, My Pal Buddee: The Checker King, which is also available in Spanish and Mandarin.

Are you traditionally published, indie published, or a hybrid author?

Both

Where do you write?

I usually write in my recliner.

Is silence golden, or do you need music to write by? What kind?

I prefer to write listening to instrumental music and occasionally I will have the television on the PBS channel.

How much of your plots and characters are drawn from real life? From your life in particular?

Most of my plots and characters are drawn from real life experiences and personal travel. I love talking to people, learning from their experiences and gaining new insights and approaches to life.

Describe your process for naming your character?

I initially learned from the Queen of Suspense, Mary Higgins Clark. I am an avid reader so I gather information from newspapers and magazines while tapping into my creative energy.

Real settings or fictional towns?

Both, I love describing places I have visited as well as capturing scenario's from my medical background.

What’s the quirkiest quirk one of your characters has?

One of the characters deals with a phobia to the outdoors. As a result, of this phobia, he prefers to play inside and develops a fascination with board games.

What’s your quirkiest quirk?

Sometimes I can be obsessed about making sure things are organized.

If you could have written any book (one that someone else has already written,) which one would it be? Why?

The Lost Years by Mary Higgins Clark which focuses on the impact of an unexpected illness and how it impacts your life. This story resonates with me due to my unfortunate accident and being unable to continue in my career. I now have a better perspective on life and gained more insight personally, as well as professionally. I definitely found strength in my vulnerability. 

Everyone at some point wishes for a do-over. What’s yours?

When I was first injured, I spent too much time in self-pity. Once I realized I could still be a productive member of society, I started working on myself, reading and accepting assistance and support from my family.

What’s your biggest pet peeve?

Selfish and uninformed people.

You’re stranded on a deserted island. What are your three must-haves?

Vegetables, raisins and a collection of Mary Higgins Clark books.

What was the worst job you’ve ever held?

Working at a fast food restaurant and not being properly trained.

What’s the best book you’ve ever read?

I love all of Mary Higgins Clark's books. 

Ocean or mountains?

I love the water because of its serenity.

City girl/guy or country girl/guy?

I love the country because of the opportunity to appreciate nature and fresh air.

What’s on the horizon for you?

Continue writing children's books and expanding my audience to young adults. I would love to expand my scope to mystery novels.

My Pal Buddee, is the first of a series of children's books focusing on various topics which deals with life lessons. I plan to write an inspirational book for young adults. I recently received a Ph.D in Metaphysics and Humanities  and plan to continue my love of teaching.

My Pal Buddee: The Checker King

Join Buddee and Kyle as they explore the power of friendship while sharing their differences. Buddee is a curious six-year-old who loves the outdoors and adventure while his best friend Kyle loves board games and prefers staying indoors. Kyle is determined to show Buddee his version of fun. This book explores Kyle's phobia, which is one reason for his fascination with board games. 

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