I admired how they could use humor even when describing tragic moments.
Sparrow Spaulding – 8 September 2018
The Back Flap
Sparrow Spaulding was born into the perfect family. Two loving parents, a beautiful home, and grandparents that doted on her. Life was a dream until the day that changed everything. Sparrow’s perfect life was ripped away at age three in one tragic moment that would forever change her. Follow her on her journey as she tells the story of her traumatic childhood and how she fought hard to stay strong despite her dreadful circumstances.
In Riding Standing Up, Spaulding’s gift for storytelling will have you on the edge of your seat. Get ready to laugh out loud and cry more tears than you’d like as you embark on this memoir that reads like a novel, never knowing what’s around the corner.
Brutally honest and unfiltered, Sparrow Spaulding is an unsung antiheroine…until now. She shows us we don’t have to be perfect to be worthy and that there’s power in being real.
About the book
What is the book about?
Riding Standing Up is a coming of age memoir about my tumultuous childhood in New England. It starts with my kidnapping at age three.
When did you start writing the book?
In late 2015
How long did it take you to write it?
Nearly three years from start to finish (including editing)
Where did you get the idea from?
I had written an essay about Father’s Day, and it grew from there.
Were there any parts of the book where you struggled?
I struggled with the first half of the book the most since writing it was the most painful.
What came easily?
When I could see an end in sight I became quite focused and wrote 25 pages per week.
Are your characters entirely fictitious or have you borrowed from real world people you know?
This is a memoir so everything is truthful except some names have been changed.
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?
Augusten Burroughs changed my life with Running With Scissors. Mary Karr, Jeannette Walls. They influenced me with their honesty and strong voices. With Mary Karr and Augusten Burroughs I admired how they could use humor even when describing tragic moments.
Do you have a target reader?
Anyone who grew up with parents who smoked in the car with the windows rolled up. And young adult women.
About Writing
Do you have a writing process?
If so can you please describe it? I like to hole up in my office with the door closed and shut out the world. I listen to a song or two to get me in the mood.
Do you outline? If so, do you do so extensively or just chapter headings and a couple of sentences?
Since I write memoir I write events that stand out to me in a chronological order. I don’t write on them extensively, just a line or two.
Do you edit as you go or wait until you’ve finished?
I edit as I go. I then go back and reread and edit again, upwards of ten times.
Did you hire a professional editor?
I created my own publishing company and yes I hired a wonderful editor!
Do you listen to music while you write? If yes, what gets the fingers tapping?
I go for themes, and I think back to the music I was listening to at the time whatever I’m writing about took place.
About Publishing
Did you submit your work to Agents?
I submitted to a few. I got one request for full manuscript but then she passed.
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 didn’t want to wait years to get an agent.
Did you get your book cover professionally done or did you do it yourself?
Yes, I actually used two artists for my cover. One for the image and one for the font and design.
Do you have a marketing plan for the book or are you just winging it?
Yes! I’m reaching out to book bloggers and reviewers, connecting with people daily on social media, and run promotions through online websites. I plan on doing radio and speaking gigs as well.
Any advice that you would like to give to other newbies considering becoming Indie authors?
Make sure your work is professionally edited and proofread. I can’t stress this enough. Also make sure your cover is eye-catching. Don’t be afraid to spend a little money and invest in yourself!
About You
Where did you grow up?
I was born in NY and raised in New England
Where do you live now?
Houston
What would you like readers to know about you?
I’m an eternal optimist and never give up!
What are you working on now?
Part two of my memoir trilogy. It’s called Lather. Rinse. Repeat.
End of Interview:
For more from Sparrow, visit her website, follow her on Twitter, and like her Facebook page.
Get your copy of Riding Standing Up from Amazon US or Amazon UK.
