Welcome to another installment of Stacked’s Twitterview series. We bring an author in to answer our questions in 140 characters or less, giving us a flavor of who they are and what their books are all about.
This month, we are bringing in Tara Kelly, author of the Cybils shortlisted title Harmonic Feedback, which I read, adored, and reviewed right here. Those of you who haven’t read it should get on it: Drea is one of the most real and fully fleshed characters I’ve read in a long time. She’s one who will stay in your mind long after you’ve finished the book. And lucky you: I have a finished copy to send off to one lucky reader. You can enter at the end of the post!
And now a few words from the author:
Pitch HARMONIC FEEDBACK in 140 characters or less
A music obsessed aspie girl starts a band, falls in lust, and learns to question what normal really means.
A girl with a great guitar and horrible stage fright. A surly boy bassist with a ’71 Camaro. Lots of music. Lots of kissing.
What’s been the biggest surprise — something you may not have anticipated — to come from publishing HARMONIC FEEDBACK?
How many people not only relate to Drea, but love her!
How did you do your research on ADHD and Aspergers to make such a convincing and likeable character in Drea?
I drew a lot from my personal experience with family and friends on the spectrum. Read Tony Attwood’s book abt girls with Asperger’s.
What is your writing ritual? How do you yourself jazzed to do it?
Playlists for every character that I listen to on repeat. In the car. At work. Even in the shower!
Since each character has a play list for them, give us a sample of Drea’s, Naomi’s, and Justin’s play lists (I graciously granted permission for up to 420 characters – all links hit youtube):
What’s the best piece of writing advice you ever received?
Write what you love.
Who are your writing influences?
Growing up I read a lot of Joyce Carol Oats, Poppy Z Brite, Kurt Vonnegut. Countless YA books as well, especially Christopher Pike.
Who do you think is doing groundbreaking stuff in today’s YA market?
Too many to list, but check out http://yaoutsidethelines.blogspot.com/ . We pride ourselves on pushing the boundaries of YA.
You are inspired and influenced by music. What three songs are always in your rotation?
Can’t narrow it to three! But you can always count on something by Placebo, something by Catherine Wheel, and something by Skinny Puppy.
Your teen years were some of your most intense years. What one memory sticks out most?
A night involving two cute boys, a dark alley, and undercover cops. Long story.
I won’t ask the inevitable favorite ice cream question. I want to know your favorite kind of cheese!
Provolone!
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Want to win a copy of Harmonic Feedback for yourself? Fill out the form below and we’ll pick a winner on or around January 20. As long as you can get shipment from bookdepository.com, I’ll send it to you.
Love this interview! Bookmarked. 😉 I'll be receiving this in the mail soon, hopefully. Can't wait to read this, as I've been dying to read it for ages!!
I'm more of a cheddar girl myself but I'm reallye xcited to read Harmonic Feedback. In fact, I think I might make it the next one I pick up! C Side Tales sounds like a must add to my TBR as well. Oh, and just added the blog she referenced to my feedreader. Lots of great stuff in this Twitterview.
In 140 or less: I'm sold, calling the library, where's the Tara Kelly Pandora station?
Thanks to you both for a truly interesting interview!
I adore the format of this interview. Well done – I cant wait to read the book and thanks for the terrific music recommendations. I am one happy bunny 😀
I've heard many wonderful things about Harmonic Feedback! I'm excited to read that and her upcoming book!
I think its cool that there are playlists for her characters!
I am definitely one of those people who related to and loved Drea. Loved the whole book, in fact! Really lovely and fresh. The new book sounds amazing, as well!