When did you start writing?
I’ve been writing since I was little but I didn’t take it seriously until I was in my early twenties.
What was the process like for writing ‘Such a Fun Age’?
In the beginning, I would write Monday through Friday for three hours in the morning and another hour in the evening. But once I went to grad school and had more time and a bigger body of work, I would do eight hour days, especially in the final weeks of completion.
What inspired you to write ‘Such a Fun Age’?
I was very inspired by the feeling of working in someone else’s homeKiley Reid
I started with the goal of having a very awkward and charged relationships between three people. From there I focused on the nanny / mother / and child relationship, which I knew well from my time as a nanny. I was very inspired by the feeling of working in someone else’s home, especially while you don’t have a stable income and health care.
What are you currently working on?
I’m executive producing the film adaption of Such A Fun Age and when I’m not on book tour, I’m very slowly starting to write a second novel.
What has been the highlight of your career so far?
Being accepted into grad school was a game-changer as it was the first time I had time and space to really focus on writing. I was also excited to teach workshops which was a great experience.
Tell us about some of your favourite authors and books!
I loved Donna Tartt’s The Little Friend and it has one of my favorite literary nannies in it. I also loved Z.Z. Packar’s collection Drinking Coffee elsewhere and The History Of Love by Nicole Kraus.
What advice would you give to somebody who wants to start writing?
Don’t turn to your phone. Kiley Reid
Set realistic goals. Not just “I want to write more.” Make lists and try your best to complete them. If you get stuck, just sit and think about it. Don’t turn to your phone.
What is your biggest accomplishment in life?
That’s a hard one! Having the stamina to apply to graduate school two years in a row was very difficult and I’m glad I had the strength to do it despite rejections.
What will you be reading, watching or listening to in 2020?
I’m excited to read Gish Jen’s newest book. I’ll also be watching a lot of television as it’s an election year.
What advice would you give your younger self?
Apply to everything. Even if you don’t know how it would work out. Just apply and figure it out later.
If you could only eat one meal for the rest of your life what would it be?
I know it’s not a real meal…popcorn.
What do you always carry with you?
Glue. I love press-on nails and if one of them decides to pop off, I am ready.
What are you most looking forward to in 2020?
Touring has been wonderful and I’m looking forward to getting back on the road in March. I’m also excited to dive into novel number two.
