Meet author Debra Williams as she pulls the strands of stories together
Whilst thinking through storylines can be a lot of work, I find joy when an idea or outline comes together.
Being able to write both creative and inspiring stories for a wide age group.
This is a beautiful state, full of history.
There are so many aspects that I can bring into my work, whether it be based on the native animals, the environment or historical places and events.
A Writing Journey Full of Lessons
My writing journey only began 8 years ago, but there has been much to learn. Number one was to find a good editor, as I did with Australian author Sally Odgers who lives here in Tassie.
We started working together in 2016, five years before I moved here, and have a great working relationship.
Learning About Independent Publishing
I have discovered that traditional publishing can be difficult to achieve, so I have taken the independently published route so far.
However, that doesn’t mean I will stop submitting to traditional publishers. Last year was my first experience of working with a publisher, Morris Publishing Australia, who released my chapter book under Assisted Independent Publishing. It has taught me much in relation to what a publisher requires.
Work Spaces for Creativity
I have two workspaces: a large room that doubles as my workshop for sewing and puppet orders, and my dining room table where I work on my iPad at various times.
In my office area, I work on my MacBook Pro, as there are certain things that can only be done on the laptop, including printer connectivity when I need it. I have a large desk for writing.
Writing Genres
I write in several genres. My first three books, the Harriet series, are for Middle-Grade readers and are time-travel historical fiction based on fact. I wrote those books after assisting in classrooms where I saw many children in the 8-12 age group struggling with their reading.
Last year I released my first chapter book, Ah-Fur, Super-Sleuth: The Case of the Missing Moggies, which is a fun cat detective story for 7-11-year-old readers.
Earlier this year I was asked to contribute to an indie anthology called A Glimmer of Uncommon Fairy Tales, which involved writing a Young Adult story. I also write adult short stories, often based on real-life experiences.
The Two Way Streets of Involvement
I have been part of an online critique group for many years, and enjoy the interaction and feedback, both from the point of view of what I can offer and what others give to me.
Festivals etc. are a great way to become inspired by what others do, and maybe give some input.
Over the years I have been invited to participate in local author events, and it’s always a joy to share and meet with other authors.
The Magic of Showing, Not Telling
I have learned a lot in the last eight years in regard to story structure i.e. “Show, not tell,” and many ways of tightening up my writing style.
I wasn’t certain that I would be able to write for the Young Adult market this year, but after encouragement from my illustrator and an author friend, I went ahead and now the story has been published.
I am actually re-writing parts of my MG Harriet series with the aim of having the books re-released in the future.
Running Writing Workshops
I run writing workshops at times in conjunction with local libraries.
These workshops are for primary-aged children and I enjoy seeing their creative side come to the fore.
I also enjoy sharing tips for writing that they can use in their stories.
Sources of Inspiration
When an idea suddenly appears (often in a dream!) I like to be able to write it down so I don’t forget.
Sometimes I will see an idea for a storyline in the media, say on a news item, and I will jot it down.
Outlining Plot, Characters and Overall Aim
It’s also good to outline and write down my plot, characters and the overall aim of the intended story.
Biggest Challenge Faced
Probably about how hard self-promotion is! It’s a constant reach, and even with paid advertising, sales are not guaranteed.
It’s really difficult to have your self-published works taken on by libraries and schools.
Puppets Bringing Characters to Life
I have been creating puppets to order for over 20 years. I have brought my own book characters to life, and do so for other authors.
I work from their illustrations and sometimes the design is quite a creative challenge!
It inspires me to stretch my skills and do the best job possible for the recipient. On another tangent, reading inspires me a lot.
As a reviewer for an online fortnightly digital children’s writing magazine, I get to read lots of new releases. It keeps me up with trends and inspires my own writing creativity.
Advice for Writers
To never give up, even when feeling like you’ll never get anywhere with it. Persistence is the key. Set yourself a goal and work towards it.
1. Take feedback from others, whether through a critique group or reviews of your work.
2. Take classes and courses. I have taken online courses through the Australian Writer’s Centre, especially Writing Chapter Books for 6-9-year olds.
3. Have a good editor. Learn from them, take their advice, even if it means a 180-degree shift in your thinking. And try to write some each day-even if it is only one paragraph or chapter.
Knowing What’s Important For You
Sales are not key to me, but rather, getting my stories into the hands of those readers who would enjoy them. To a degree, this involves sales-but I also donate my books at times and hope they find the right target audience.
On a different note, there have been times I have put my WIP’s aside for some time to come back and look at them through fresh eyes. It certainly works, especially if I have read something helpful in the meantime or learned something useful from other authors or online study.
About the Writer
Debra Williams (Debra Clewer, author) is an author from far North-West Tasmania.
She has three Middle-Grade time travel historical fiction novels independently published (The Harriet Series), and four short children’s stories published in anthologies.
Debra has several short stories published online on the UK-based Reedsy site.
In 2022, Debra released her first chapter book, Ah-Fur, Super Sleuth-The Case of the Missing Moggies.
A second chapter book manuscript for another series is awaiting a home. Two more short stories were released in 2023 in the anthologies: I Used to be an Animal Lover and A Glimmer of Uncommon Fairy Tales.
Follow Debra on Facebook and Instagram and visit her website for news about latest books and events.
Artist Profile Stories
I want there to be more arts and crafts in our world, in our communities and in our own lives. Hopefully you’ve found this blog post inspiring and interesting.
So I’m creating, with your help, Art Trails Tasmania, allowing all of us who feel this love to create more of it.
And the Art Trails Tasmania blog is a key part of making this happen, telling the stories of members. It’s about what they have happening with workshops and classes, exhibitions, open studio trails, where to find their outlets, markets, fairs and festivals so you can shop their creations as well as their art and craft retreats.
Also being shared are the supporters of our artists, the galleries, shops, cafes, art societies and groups, places to stay and artist in residencies.
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