Hello, Everyone! #BuqoYa Finding Fairytales makes another stop on my blog today with an interview with Anne Plaza (author of Fall for Grace). Check out our convo and learn something about books, writing rituals, and Loooooooove!
She Flies With Faeries (SFWF): If you were the MC (Main Character) in your story, would you have made the same choices that he/she has made, too? Why or why not?
Anne Plaza (AP): First of all, thank you, Cass for having me on your blog! I think I would've made the same choices given the knowledge I had of the other person. When I was in high school, I was really shy and I didn't know how to act around guys since I only had 3 years of co-ed school experience. I usually acted snobbish and aloof during those years simply because I was afraid to show my true personality in case I got picked on (but I still did). I think it was my defense mechanism of sorts, so I sympathize with my characters' actions and would have probably done the same things they did.
SFWF: What are your writing rituals?
AP: I don't have any regimen that I follow to the dot; my rituals depend on my current mood. But before I start writing or during the process when I outline my story, I like to have visual pegs of my characters so I can visualize their actions and expressions when I write the story. I have a Pinterest board (which I need to update regularly haha) that helps me with that. Throughout the writing process I sometimes listen to music to get the feels going. And as much as possible I stick to a writing schedule (usually in the evenings after my work) so I can devote time to just churning out the words.
SFWF: What's one YA Novel that you would recommend to everyone else? Something that you know is a MUST READ?
AP: There isn't just one I'd recommend because I think YA readers (both in the age bracket and those who are aficionados of the genre) should get to add these to their TBR pile:SFWF: If you could look back on your teenage years, what's one thing that you learned about love then that you know still holds true today?
Anina ng mga Alon by Eugene Evasco - This story perfectly captures the plight of ethnic minorities in our country. I think every Filipino whether young or old should read this as it makes you think outside of your world and that Manila isn't the Philippines.
The Nancy Drew mystery books - This is a timeless piece of lit that every young adult should read. These books helped me develop a curious mind and appreciate the world and my surroundings. (The series is on its 85th year already! Yay!)
AP: Wow, this is a tough question! Haha. Let's see. I think that when people fall in love (whether they're teens or in their 60s) those feelings are legit. I remember my parents and elders telling me during my teenage years that love is something I shouldn't think about at such a young age. While they speak true about prioritizing studies and stuff, love isn't something you can just sweep under the rug. You feel it when you feel it. Sometimes young love can make a lasting impression in a person's life and can affect them in the most profound way, so it's also important to acknowledge them and have a good balance with your everyday responsibilities.
SFWF: And, is there any story out there that you wish you yourself wrote?
AP: I have a lot of stories right now that I'm so excited to write about! In Mina's classes she's introduced several story tropes that I really want to explore. But looking at the #buqoYA stories of my classmates, I wish I wrote those story concepts, too. They're all brilliant ideas!
