How did you choose the genre of King James Virgin?
I chose to write a memoir because the conventional advice to write about what you know resonates with me. I have always preferred true stories and empathized with people who struggle to accept their own truths and challenges.
What made you want to write about King James Virgin?
My interest in personal stories, along with my family's experience with severe mental illness and my own childhood anxiety, inspired me to pursue a career in psychiatry. Developing my memoir felt like a natural process, motivated by my desire to share my story from the perspective of a young child who is starting to understand that she lives in two parallel cultures.
How did you research King James Virgin?
Genealogy research done by my sister, a significant character in my memoir, was a primary source of information for the family history contained in my story. I spent several days in the local library going through microfiche copies of the hometown newspaper for the period covered in my book. I also reviewed magazines and catalogs that had a national distribution during that time. I read several books about the Kennedy administration since the assassination is the backdrop for my story.
Any advice for others starting the process of independent publishing?
Embrace independent publishing; don’t view it as a second-rate option. Don’t hesitate to use developmental editors to refine your story. I have found many resources, such as books, writer's workshops, and YouTube videos, helpful in writing my memoir.
Portions of this Q&A were edited for clarity.
