Author Inteview: Danielle Joseph

This is my second author interview on this blog, so I decided to interview Danielle Joesph, I was so happy that I interviewed her, her book Shrinking Violet is really good!



What inspired you to write Shrinking Violet?

I was inspired to write Shrinking Violet for two reasons. First off, I wanted to write a book about something I have passion for: music. I love music and can't live without it. I worked in radio so the setting was chosen first. Then the character of Tere came to mind. Just because you are shy does not mean that you can't dream of doing something in the public eye and that is how the two came together. Tere strives to be a DJ but can she overcome her fears and obstacles to reach her goal?

Have you always wanted to become an author?

I have wanted to be an author ever since my first grade teacher introduced the class to writing. I couldn't believe that I could write whatever I wanted. Basically I was hooked after I wrote my first novel in first grade. I still have that picture book today!

How are you and Tere alike and how are you different?

Tere and I both love music, reach for our goals and don't let anything stand in our way. We are also both shy. However, I will say I was not nearly as shy as Tere.

What are you most proud of?

I'm really proud of my kids for being themselves (even my baby).

What's your all time favorite book?

This is such a hard question to answer because I have been influenced by so many books over the years. I will say that Tunes for Bears to Dance To by Robert Cormier was one of my favorite novels to teach because it was so powerful and touching in a simplistic way.

What's the scariest thing you've ever done?

One of the scariest things I ever did was a couple of years ago when I went on a zip line in Cancun but it was so exhilarating at the same time!

What's your favorite piece of advice for young writers?

One of the things I like to tell young writers is to be yourself. Just write. Don't let other people or society tell you what you should put down on paper. Writing comes from within and if you love what you are doing, you will succeed. Also, listen. We can't do that enough as writers. Listen to your peers, listen to your audience and listen to those around you.

Are you planning to write anymore books?

Yes, I plan on writing lots. You can look out for my next young adult novel, Indigo Blues. It's scheduled to be released summer 2010 from Flux Books. It's told in two points of view, in which a songwriter's hit tune tells the world about his break-up with his girlfriend, but the two have no concept how much their lives are going to change.

Thanks for interviewing me!


I thank Danielle Joseph for sharing some of her time to answer my questions, authors can be so busy sometimes that they have no time. Danielle Joesph was so kind that she actually did! Thanks so much!