Author Interview: The Literary Spotlight with Author Dallas Woodburn

Author Interview: The Literary Spotlight with Author Dallas Woodburn

Introducing Dallas Woodburn, a dynamic force in the literary world whose multifaceted talents shine brightly across genres. With a remarkable career spanning award-winning novels, captivating short story collections, and insightful nonfiction works, Dallas has established herself as a versatile storyteller with a gift for weaving narratives that resonate deeply with readers.

As the host of the Thriving Authors Podcast and a respected book coach, Dallas not only shares her own writing expertise but also uplifts fellow authors, nurturing their creative journeys and empowering them to reach their full potential. Her dedication to fostering literary talent is matched only by her passion for crafting compelling stories that leave a lasting impact.

Dallas’s latest YA novel, “Before & After You & Me,” set to release from Owl Hollow Press, promises to captivate audiences with its poignant exploration of love, loss, and the transformative power of human connection. Praised as “a polished gem of a novel” by Indies Today, it is sure to be a standout addition to her already impressive body of work.

Beyond her literary pursuits, Dallas finds joy in the simple pleasures of life, from hiking scenic trails to indulging in the delights of pumpkin spice baking. Her commitment to nurturing creativity extends beyond the written word, as she dedicates herself to teaching writing classes for both teens and adults, inspiring the next generation of storytellers.

Residing in California with her husband and two young daughters, Dallas’s life is a vibrant tapestry woven with threads of passion, creativity, and boundless imagination. Join me as we embark on a journey into the world of Dallas Woodburn, where each page is infused with the warmth of her creative spirit and the depth of her storytelling prowess.

Introduction:

Cyra: Could you please introduce yourself and tell us a bit about your writing background? What inspired you to become a writer, and how did your writing journey begin?

Dallas: I have loved to write for as long as I can remember! I feel very lucky that my dad, Woody Woodburn, is a writer. He is an amazing author, novelist, and journalist—he was always very supportive of my creative endeavors, and I grew up getting to witness firsthand a writer at work.

I was always aware that the books I read and loved didn’t just appear magically on the shelves; they were actually written by a real live person. I understood that being an author was a job you could have. And it has always been my dream job, ever since I first learned to read and write. I self-published my first book, a collection of poetry and short stories, when I was ten years old. That experience got me hooked on not just writing, but also publishing and sharing my work with others.

I studied Creative Writing in college, went on and earned my Master’s degree in Fiction Writing, and was fortunate to get a publishing deal for my debut novel in 2020 (which was actually my fourth completed novel manuscript – sometimes books aren’t published in the order the author has written them!)

Now I am the author of nine books in a variety of genres, from young adult to literary fiction, short story collections to nonfiction, to a children’s picture book series coming out next year! I count my lucky stars every day that here I am, living my dream.

Creative Process: 

Cyra: Could you share a glimpse into your creative process? How do you approach developing ideas and turning them into stories? Do you have any specific rituals or habits that help you get into the writing zone?

Dallas: Yes, I love to light a candle or turn on my twinkle lights to signal to my brain that it is time for my writing. There are so many other tasks we do on computers, I think it is important to create a ritual around our creative time. I like to close my eyes, take a few deep breaths to center myself, and say an affirmation or gratitude for my writing practice.

For me, writing the first draft is exciting, but it is also the most nerve-wracking. I always feel like I am swimming across a giant body of water, leaning on faith and trust that I will eventually make it to the other side, even when it seems like I’m not making much forward progress.

(And to keep the metaphor going, I often end up in a wholly new place, down the shore from where I was originally aiming when I set off at the beginning.) Once I have the first draft down on paper—even though it usually changes quite a bit during the revising process and the many drafts to come—the book feels somehow sturdier to me. I can exhale a little.

Writing Influences:

Cyra: Who are some of your favorite authors or literary influences, and how have they shaped your own writing style? Are there any books or works that have had a profound impact on your writing career?

Dallas: My dad Woody Woodburn, who I mentioned earlier, is my biggest influence and biggest fan. (His new novel The Butterfly Tree is amazing—I highly recommend you check it out!) As far as favorite books go, I have too many favorites to count! I love everything from Emily Henry rom-coms to Dr. Seuss to The New Yorker magazine!

Favorite YA authors include Jennifer Niven,
Sarah Dessen, Marissa Meyer, Jennifer Marie Hawkins and Abigail Hing Wen. I also adore Lorrie Moore and George Saunders. Aimee Bender is not only a fantastic writer, she is also a phenomenal teacher – I was lucky enough to have her as a Creative Writing professor at the University of Southern California, where she helped me take risks and grow enormously as a writer.

Overcoming Challenges:

Cyra: What challenges have you faced as a writer, and how did you overcome them? How do you handle writer’s block or periods of self-doubt?

Dallas: I have certainly faced challenges, just as every writer has. For example, just focusing on my new novel Before & After You & Me – this novel took twelve years to bring to fruition. That is a long time! I first began writing this novel as my MFA thesis in grad school. I had to stay true to my vision for the book, because a couple of the professors on my thesis committee questioned the “before and after” structure of dual timelines.

It is important to get feedback from others, of course, but deep down the person we most need to please is ourselves. I have always been drawn to the unique structure of this book, and I knew it was not something I wanted to change. Now that the book is out in the world, it is neat that many readers have said the before & after structure is something they love about the book!

Other challenges I have faced with this book were in the winding path to publication: hundredsof rejections, two different agents, many “almost” publishing deals, and then finally a publication deal with my dream publisher Owl Hollow Press. Every bump in the road made this book better, because it was an invitation for me to return to the manuscript with fresh eyes, to dive back in and bring the characters and their stories to life in a fuller, richer way.

In my creative life, when I feel discouraged, I remind myself that challenges are part of the creative process because they are part of growth! And I always want to be growing as a writer.

Character Development:

Cyra: How do you approach developing compelling and relatable characters in your stories? Are there any strategies or exercises you use to ensure your characters feel authentic and three-dimensional?

Dallas: When I was in high school, I attended an author event at my local indie bookstore featuring one of my favorite YA authors, Joan Bauer. (Her beautiful novel Hope Was Here is a true classic!) Imagine my surprise (and luck!) when I was the only one to show up to the event. I got to chat with Joan for nearly half an hour about her books and her writing. She could not have been more gracious and encouraging.

One piece of advice she gave has stuck with me ever since. When I asked how she creates such full, nuanced, believable characters, she told me that she writes a 30-page biography of her characters before she even begins writing the actual book. In doing so, they become real people with rich histories to her. And she discovers details about them that make the entire world of the book come to life in greater depth.

I don’t go to quite the same lengths as a 30-page biography, but I did begin – right then and there – to devote more time to getting to know my characters before I dive into the plot and world-building of my novels. I like to interview my characters, asking questions and learning little bits and pieces of their lives. This also helps me hone in on their voice, and often gives me ideas for the plot and backstory, too!

I created a template of questions that I like to ask my characters when I am starting on a new project. You can download it here. My free gift to you! Adapt it, add to it, change it as you see fit. Enjoy!

It is so magical when the characters start to come alive and leap off the page; when they begin to feel like these real people you can’t wait to go hang out with again.

Creative Inspiration:

Cyra: Where do you find inspiration for your stories? Are there any specific themes or topics you enjoy exploring in your writing?

Dallas: I find inspiration for my stories all around me. Often ideas will spark from tidbits I overhear, little scraps of conversation, phrases my daughters say. The kernel of Before & After You & Me came from a newspaper article I read about a bride who was paralyzed during her bachelorette party when she was jokingly shoved into a pool.

I keep journals all around my house to jot down ideas as soon as they strike me. I think a huge part of being a writer is opening ourselves up to our own beautiful creativity, and giving our ideas attention and space without judgment—only curiosity.

As far as plot goes, I’m mostly a “pantser” who plots a little, and it is thrilling when the story is flowing and I just can’t wait to find out what happens next! Almost as if I am reading the book myself as I am writing it.

Personal Reflection:

Cyra: Is there a particular book or project you are most proud of? Could you share the story behind it? What is the most rewarding aspect of being a writer for you?

Dallas: Writing is how I connect with not just the world around me – it is how I stay connected with my authentic self. I think it is important to practice creativity in your daily life. The world has not lost its sense of wonder for me.  I am continually impressed and inspired by the resilience, beauty, and generosity in people. Also, by the human ability to change and grow and thrive despite adversity and setbacks.

Publishing and Marketing: 

Cyra: What has been your experience with the publishing industry? Any advice for aspiring authors on finding agents or publishers? How do you navigate the world of book marketing and promotion? Any tips for authors looking to build their audience?

Dallas: Oh goodness, answering this question could be a book in itself! I think we are fortunate to live in the current time, because there is such a wealth of information and resources online—I definitely recommend reading websites and blogs about the publishing industry and literary agents to immerse yourself in this part of the industry.

Writer’s Digest, Publisher’s Marketplace, Jane Friedman’s website are all great resources. There are also hundreds of excellent podcasts and tons of content on YouTube and social media.

The trick, of course, is not to get overwhelmed or feel like you need to learn it all, because the landscape is always changing. You learn most by actually DOING it—being brave to put yourself out there, submit your work, solicit feedback, try and try again.

One thing I have learned about the publishing industry is that there is no one-size-fits-all answer; the secret truly is deciding what is best for YOU and your particular book. I have had wonderful experiences working with traditional publishers, and I have also thoroughly enjoyed self-publishing too. It’s all about your goals, your timeline, and your vision for your book.

Advice for Budding Writers:

Cyra: What advice would you give to aspiring authors who are just starting their writing journey? How do you handle rejection and criticism in the publishing world?

Dallas: Have faith in your own vision and your own voice. Trust yourself and trust the process. Don’t be afraid to try something new creatively, to push yourself out of your comfort zone. Enjoy the process. And remember: you are the only one in all of time who has your exact perspective and set of experiences and memories. You are the only one who can tell your stories the exact way you tell them. So it is your responsibility, your gift, to tell them!

Favourite Quote:

Cyra: What’s your favorite quote that keeps you going in life?

Dallas: I once had the pleasure of seeing Ray Bradbury speak at a writing conference, and he said, “Write with passion! Write with love!” I can think of no better advice for writing your book—or living your life.

Future Projects:

Cyra: Could you give us a sneak peek into any upcoming projects both in terms of your advocacy work and your literary pursuits? Do you have any upcoming projects or goals you would like to share?

Dallas: My list book 1,001 Ways to Be Kind comes out June 5th from Familius Books – it is a very sweet, inspiring book that would make the perfect gift for someone special in your life. I am also thrilled that my debut picture book Kid Scientists at the Beach comes out next summer, kicking off a Kid Scientists series that has been super fun to write.

My young daughters are excited that I am finally releasing a “book with pictures!” In the meantime, I am working on my next novel while jotting down ideas for the 999 other book projects I want to tackle!

** Note for readers by Dallas: I am hosting a writing contest and would love to invite you to enter! The prompt is to write about a time that split your life into “Before” and “After” Winners get cash prizes and publication. The deadline is May 7th. Here is all the info: http://bit.ly/beforeafterwritingcontest

Dallas’s Website: https://www.dallaswoodburn.com/