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Linda Joy Singleton
Linda is the author of the REGENERATION series. Enter Contest at: www.LJSingleton.com DOUBLE VISION: www.amberquill.com/ya.html#DV Coming in 2004: DRAGONFLY, DON'T DIE
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What drove/inspired you to get started?
I've been writing stories since I was very young, and feel compelled to write. I feel I was born to be a writer.
Do you have any specialized training?
No. No college or writing classes. But I've been attending writing conferences, sharing critiques, reading and working hard at my writing since 1986.
Has this been something you've always wanted to do?
Yes. Have there been any obstacles along the way? Many! And I have a heavy box of rejections as evidence. My first book sold, then was canceled, then finally came out -- only to go out of print too soon. Other books sold and also went out of print. Had a lot of challenges with agents, too--currently don't have one. The roller coaster of publishing keeps me busy trying new things and reinventing myself.
Before you got the all important contract how did your friends and family react to your goals? Were they supportive?
My parents applaud all my books and read everything. My husband respects how I take my career seriously and is very supportive. My own kids aren't impressed, although I think they're proud.
Now that you have a book/books in print, do you get different reactions from friends and family?
The biggest reaction was when my series REGENERATION was optioned by Fox TV. It was a fun ride while it lasted. But then I came back to normal and the books went out of print, my agent dropped me, and I had three years of constant rejections. Fortunately, I just sold a new book, DRAGONFLY, DON'T DIE, as #1 in a teen mystery series that begins in 2004 from Llewellyn Worldwide.
How did you land that very first book deal?
I submitted a lot! One rejection came back with a personal letter inviting me to submit again. So I contacted the publisher to get a better idea of what they were looking for and subbed about three partials (3 chapters/synopsis). I got The Call in September 1988 that they wanted one of these books -- and after some publishing bumps, ALMOST TWINS, came out in 1991.
Did you have any misconceptions in the beginning about the whole book process?
I didn't know much about the hardback market. There were a lot of paperback publishers and I focused on them. I spent the last few years working on improving my craft and fine-tuning several single title novels. Just recently, I subbed a paperback series proposal -- and that's what sold.
How would you describe your work?
Fast-paced, humorous, suspenseful with a fun dose of paranormal topics.
What's the most important thing you'd like others to get out of it?
I want readers to love my books and ask for more. This has happened many times with my REGENERATION series, and it's wonderful to hear from kids who want to know what happens next to my characters.
Do you have an agent? If yes, please explain how you acquired your agent and how do you think having one has helped you? If you don't have an agent, would you consider getting one?
I've had two agents and loved working with them both. The first agent sold three series for me to Avon and Berkley. She quit the business and agent #2 stepped in with a large agency that was able to get the TV option. But when that agent cut her client list, I started looking for a new agent -- and am still looking.
Describe your relationship with your editor.
My new editor Megan is SO cool! I love talking to her on the phone or email. She appreciates my experience and enjoys my writing. My last editor mostly ignored me, so I really appreciate being treated with respect this time. And I hope to do many books with my new editor.
How do you most often communicate with your publisher--e-mail, phone, or snail mail?
It's still new, but I can call Megan anytime. We share emails, too.
What books do you have in the works now?
With Megan, my new YA series with a psychic teen, Sabine Rose. The first book, DRAGONFLY, DON'T DIE, involves a mysterious girl with a dragonfly tattoo and vandalism at a high school. With ghosts, psychics, and spirit guides, this series will have plenty of mystery and excitement.
Is there anything you'd do differently with your new projects?
No. I write one book at a time and have some other books I'll get to when I finish this one.
What's the best thing about publishing a book?
I love seeing book covers, finding the book in stores -- and the best part is hearing from fans. I treasure all my fan letters!
What's the worst?
Wondering about your own abilities -- I still get a lot of moments when I question my writing ability.
Any last words of encouragement for beginners?
You just keep writing, learning, reading. My motto is: Try everything and never give up.
