Thank you Karen for the interview.

Interview

What was your inspiration for Miracle?

Two major things: 1. The story of Simeon in the Bible, who was an old man and his life’s purpose was fulfilled when he met Jesus. I asked myself, what if a young girl’s purpose was fulfilled early on, then what? 2. My dad. He had pancreatic cancer and passed away when I was in college. He was so hopeful and positive while he was sick, and I wanted to capture that in my book.

What drew you to writing middle grade?

I wrote a lot of other genres before MG, and MG seems to be my jam. I enjoy the themes and hopefulness of MG. Deep down, I’m a kid at heart.

How did you choose which character to centre the story around? 

Amie (the MC) came to me with her voice first. She said, “Ba-ba always told me I was a miracle.” And that stuck! (It’s also the first line.)

What was your process for writing Miracle?

I had a very brief outline in my head for beginning, middle, end. I wrote it during NaNoWriMo in 2016, so it was very fast drafting.

What is your approach to world and character building?

I always start with the character. Who they are, what they want. Then, I start thinking about plot. I use Save the Cat outlines for plot nowadays.

How would you describe Miracle in five words?

Musical, joyful, grieving, friendship, hopeful!

Did you have a favourite moment in the book to write?

I loved writing the chapter where Amie gets her Christmas/Chinese New Year present.

What was your favourite book growing up?

I loved The Boxcar Children series, A Wrinkle in Time, Number the Stars.

Do you have a favourite genre to read?

Romance is my guilty pleasure. 🙂