Questions and Answers about Debbie Shakespeare Smith

When did you start writing? Years ago my mom suggested that I write a
story about something my son had done that was cute. After writing it I
wondered if I could sell it to a magazine. I don't think I ever sold that story,
but I decided to start writing stories and submitting them to magazines.
Eventually I sold about 40 stories.

What type of books do you enjoy reading? I read mostly adult
mysteries. But I try to read lots of books that interest kids too.

Where do you get ideas for the characters in your books? Sometimes
they are purely my imagination, and sometimes they are based on real
people. But if they are based on real people I just exaggerate certain
characteristics of those people.

What are your favorite types of books for children? I like books that
have good characterization and have some humor. As I read books that I
like I will add them to my web site.

Is it hard to become a writer? It takes lots of determination and you
can't get your feelings hurt by rejection letters. You just have to keep
believing in yourself and listening to what others suggest.

If you have questions you would like answered, please
submit them by e-mail.