For me, the characters always come first. It's as though I'm meeting someone for the first time, and he or she reveals him or herself to me in his or her own time.
Tracie Barton-Barrett – 18 July 2018
The Back Flap
"They are our companions on Life's journey…and our memories of them will always be buried deep in our hearts."
In Woodhaven Run, Michigan, Nivie Emerson, Bryn Troxell and Jacqueline Stanton have animals who touch their lives in many ways. As important members of their families, these steadfast companions bring joy and compassion into their homes through the ebbs and flows of life. But, when a beloved animal dies, the painful inevitability triggers grief and soul-searching. In the process of memorializing the animals, mothers and daughters, husbands and wives, children and friends are connected to one another. A community solution is then created to foster healing and celebrate their animals' lives.
About the book
How long did it take you to write it?
From start to finish, 3 1/2 years, but the last 1 1/2 years is when I buckled down to complete it.
Where did you get the idea from?
As someone who has lost animal companions, the desire to write a book about pet loss, and addressing the unique, yet universal experience, was always a goal of mine. We know now that emotional pain lights up similar parts in the brain as physical pain. After losing two beloved pets in grad school, I remembered what one of my professors said, "Don't do nothing (with grief.)"
So, ever the devoted student, I delved into research, copying as many articles as I could and stood back, proud of my newfound labeled and neatly stacked folders. And they just sat there. Collecting dust. For years. It wasn't until the anniversary of our Kimball Kitty's death (who is featured in my book) when it hit me: Make it fiction.
From the second this "a-ha moment" occurred, a new energy and trajectory took its course, and Buried Deep in Our Hearts was born. Ironically, for most of my childhood, I only read non-fiction. I was more interested in reading books about psychology and physiology than any fiction reading list. It's only been during the last 10 years that I've read and enjoyed fiction. I know that my book came from something bigger than myself.
Were there any parts of the book where you struggled?
There are two scenes in the book that brought me to tears every time I worked on them. One scene I cried because it happened to me and the other because I hope it never happens to me.
What came easily?
"Easily" is a relative term. Some authors can easily write beautifully formed sentences that seem to flow effortlessly to the page. I, on the other hand, edit, edit, and edit some more. Dialogue tends to come a little easier for me.
I do enjoy book readings where I get to meet the readers and hear their stories. Because if we are human, we have stories. If we have animals, we have even more.
Are your characters entirely fictitious or have you borrowed from real world people you know?
The cat storyline of Kitty Kimball is almost completely based on my life with him. The main dog, Tucker, and horse, Ranger, as well as other biped and quadruped storylines are compilations from friends, family members, and observations.
We all know how important it is for writers to read. Are there any particular authors that have influenced how you write and, if so, how have they influenced you?
Harper Lee. To Kill a Mockingbird changed me and continues to change and influence me every time I read it. Her character development and description are second to none.
Do you have a target reader?
Any animal lover. Or, anyone who loves an animal lover! I'm hoping it will become a "go-to" book after someone has lost an animal.
About Writing
Do you have a writing process? If so can you please describe it?
For me, the characters always come first. It's as though I'm meeting someone for the first time, and he or she reveals him or herself to me in his or her own time. I simply "check-in" to see if something I've read, heard, or felt belongs to their story. It's comparable to opening a puzzle, spreading out the pieces, and seeing how they fit. The exhilaration when there is a match is almost indescribable. I've also journaled every morning for almost 30 years. It's as much a part of my morning routine as eating my breakfast and has helped maintain my devotion and interest in writing.
Do you outline? If so, do you do so extensively or just chapter headings and a couple of sentences?
Yes, I outline and use a board, with different colored notecards for each storyline. I've also started using Scrivener.
Do you edit as you go or wait until you've finished?
Both. And, when you think you're done, edit it again!
Did you hire a professional editor?
No, my main editor was my High School English teacher. Since she lives in a different state and wanted a hard copy of my work, I mailed her the chapters as I completed them. She would then read them and mail them back—like a homework assignment! When it became a more completed manuscript, I had three beta readers read it over, in addition to my husband and Mom.
Do you listen to music while you write? If yes, what gets the fingers tapping?
Yes, I would put on Pandora and listen to Renaissance Music. It could also be Christmas music—any time of the year!
About Publishing
Did you submit your work to Agents?
I submitted to two. The first one said if she didn't respond, that's a "No." Never heard back. The second agent was kind enough to email a rejection. I'll keep trying, though.
What made you decide to go Indie, whether self-publishing or with an indie publisher? Was it a particular event or a gradual process?
I decided to self-publish because I enjoyed the process of actually being an active participant in creating a book, from start to finish. Therefore, after hearing horror stories from other authors, I wanted to mitigate any potential issues of who owned what. And, I felt very close to these characters since there is much autobiographical material, including the setting, which is based on my hometown of Midland, Michigan.
Did you get your book cover professionally done or did you do it yourself?
I hired a gal, Deborah, to do the formatting of the book as well as the cover. It was important to me that the book look professional because like it or not, we do judge a book by its cover. Interestingly enough, I initially had the image of cover early in the writing process. But when Deborah found a picture, I knew this had to be it, which is what I ended up using. But, it meant throwing away my "perfect cover." But, an author has to be willing to let go…
Do you have a marketing plan for the book or are you just winging it?
I pretty much winged it, but I also joined a wonderful and supportive book club comprised mainly of authors. However, even with the support, I realized I needed more, so I hired another gal, Hannah, to help with PR/Promotion. She's been worth her weight, but every author has to weigh the cost/benefit, as well as ROI.
Any advice that you would like to give to other newbies considering becoming Indie authors?
Persevere. And, when you're not feeling it, find a supportive group of authors. Not everyone will understand what it's like. Also, your skin will need to thicken. Although many people will like what you write, not everyone will like "your baby." Also, learn to differentiate between constructive feedback and when to follow your gut. And, when you feel like giving up again, persevere.
About You
Where did you grow up?
In Midland, Michigan, a town in the middle of Michigan's Lower Peninsula.
Where do you live now?
Outside of Raleigh, North Carolina.
What would you like readers to know about you?
I'm an educator, as well as a Licensed Professional Counselor. My awesome husband and I are owned by our two wonderful cats, Rutherford B. Barrett (aka "Bubby") and Oliver Monkey. In addition to my love of animals, I also love traveling, music, movies, being near the water, and quoting lines from Friends, Will & Grace, and Golden Girls.
What are you working on now?
If you know authors, you know we usually have other books percolating. I have two that are in the forefront of my mind now: a cat book and a military dog book. Then, there are two more books brewing in the back of my mind. Maybe even more!
End of Interview:
For more from Tracie, visit her website, follow her on Twitter, and like her Facebook page.
Get your copy of Buried Deep in Our Hearts from Amazon US or Amazon UK.
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