22/08/2020
Check out my member profile interview in the Publishers & Writers of San Diego Newsletter
PWM: What aspect of publishing or writing are you involved in?
Kelly: I’m a writer and author, and sales representative for ETC Publishing.
PWM: What first attracted you to writing?
Kelly I got hooked on Nancy Drew books when I was a kid and discovered I love to read, which led to me reading a lot of books on many different topics, mostly nonfiction. I also love learning and teaching, and I have a real thirst for knowledge and information. It seemed a natural progression to share in written form what I’m learning, experiencing, and observing on my journey in life.
PWM: What is your previous experience in writing?
Kelly I’ve written a book of poetry, numerous articles, and columns on health and personal development, for a variety of publications, mainly magazines and trade journals. When I worked in the real estate field, I wrote a monthly column covering the current real estate market and held classes to educate first-time home buyers on the many aspects of qualifying and purchasing a home.
PWM: What was your most recent writing project?
Kelly: My book, The Guide to a Happy Pet: Creating a Loving Bond, was published late last year. I felt compelled to write the book when I learned that approximately 6.5 million companion animals are surrendered to shelters in this country every year, according to the ASPCA.
The book is intended to guide readers to consider the responsibilities, challenges, and commitment—along with the joys—of pet guardianship. My hope is the book will help people make the best decisions for themselves and for the pet they ultimately adopt. It’s my small effort to reduce the number of animals entering shelters every year.
Specifically, my book covers the needs and requirements of six popular (common) pets. The reader is encouraged to consider the many facets of caring for and sharing their life with a pet, including their expectations, investment of time, energy, and resources. I also encourage people to view the world from the animal’s perspective, which gives them a much more comprehensive understanding of the human/animal experience. The book also introduces a new and unique concept for establishing good communication and rapport with a pet, as well as tips for deepening the bond people share with their pet.
PWM: What are you working on now?
Kelly: I am working on a follow-up book. In this book I share the stories of people who have worked with the concepts and techniques introduced in The Guide to a Happy Pet, and how the book helped them with various aspects of pet guardianship.
PWM: How long have you been a member of PWSD, and what’s your objective in joining?
Kelly: I’ve been a member for 10 years. When I moved here from Washington State in 2010, I was aware the publishing industry was shifting. I expect it will go through many changes and transforma-tions in the coming years. I knew it would be challenging to keep up with all the changes on my own. I was super excited to find such a vibrant group of people focused on educating writers about the business of writing and publishing.
PWM: What guidance or a lesson learned can you offer PWSD members?
Kelly: The publishing industry is very dynamic and fast paced now. It’s almost impossible for an individual writer to keep up with everything. I’ve found PWSD to be a valuable source of information regarding so many aspects of writing and publishing, especially marketing and promoting. I often encourage writers I know to join PWSD and attend meetings so they can keep up with current trends and opportunities in the industry.
PWM: What’s another factoid from your life or experience that people would find interesting and that would help us know a little more about you?
Kelly: During the past 26 years, I’ve lived in five states in the U.S. Living in different areas of the country has given me the opportunity to experience different cultures, customs, lifestyles, food, and climates. I’ve also had the opportunity to build relationships with people I otherwise would have never met. Living in different places has enriched my life and expanded my mind in so many ways. It’s been amazing!
