Author, Sheila Malsam, Interviewed by Sassy Reviews
1. What is your favorite line from your book “Growing through the Storm”?
One of my favorite lines from my book, “Growing Through the Storm” is a quote from Anais Nin, “And the day came when the risk to remain tight in a bud was more painful than the risk it took to blossom.”
I had been under an attack from the enemy for far too long. After discovering the truth about God and experiencing an awakening that changed my life, hope burst forth in my spirit to bloom and live the life God created me to live.
I knew there’d be challenges to face, but I could no longer live the painful life I had been living.
I came across this quote upon my awakening. It inspired me to have a vision of a life fulfilled!
2. What would you say is your strength as a writer?
I believe my willingness, confidence, and passion to share from my heart are strengths of mine as a writer. I don’t hold back when expressing myself. I allow myself to be vulnerable. I also have a creative imagination to add variety to my writing!
3. How do you manage your work schedule?
When focused on writing, my work schedule involves taking time to write in the morning after reading my devotionals and working out. This is a good time to connect with any thoughts or ideas that may have entered my sleep during the night. When the weather permits, my favorite place to write is outdoors, usually in my backyard on the patio.
Taking a break, whether it’s going for a walk, spending time with the Lord, my family, or a friend or tending to chores, helps to keep my writing fresh as the break allows my imagination to be creative.
The best time for me to write is late at night when there’s no distractions interfering with what my heart wants to express.
4. How do you handle literary criticism?
I rely on God’s Word, the truth, to handle literary criticism. Others may say and think what they will. But God knows the truth behind my motives, actions, and words I speak and write.
5. What do you like about audiobooks?
I like audiobooks because I am a multi-tasker! I can hear a good story while I clean my house!
6. What inspired you to start writing?
I believe my sensitive spirit is what inspires me to write. I developed a passion to express myself through writing as a young girl already. I find writing to be therapeutic. It is a way of releasing my emotions and allowing healing to take place.
7. What, in your opinion, are the most important elements of good writing?
Elements that I think are important for good writing are proper grammar, captivating sentences, clarity, creativity, organization, staying focused on the topic, and having good flow of content. When it comes to non-fiction writing, I believe honesty, authenticity, vulnerability, and confidence is essential. The more vulnerable you are, the more your reader will relate and connect with you and what you’re writing.
8. What is your schedule like when you are not writing?
When I’m not writing, I’m focused on marketing my book and the Prayer Capsule, a keepsake I co-designed to hold a personalized prayer or encouraging note written for anyone in need, even yourself! The Prayer Capsule can be found at prayercapsules.biz
When I’m not writing or marketing, you’ll find me spending time with my family or gardening, cooking, baking, cleaning, sewing, scrapbooking, taking a walk, riding bicycle, working out, or sharing conversation with a friend over a coffee or lunch date.
9. What is the significance of the title ‘Growing through the Storm’?
The title of my book, “Growing Through the Storm” is significant because we have the opportunity every day to either grow or to die. John 10:10 (NIV) says, “The thief comes only to steal and kill and destroy; I have come that they may have life, and have it to the full.” Upon the awakening I experienced, I chose to grow through my storm rather than die!
10. What did you want to be when you grew up?
I wanted to be a counselor when I grew up. As a young girl already, I was passionate about encouraging others to believe in their dreams and become everything they wanted to be. It was my desire to offer hope, help, inspiration, and healing to all the hurting people.
For more information on Growing Through the Storm please visit http://www.sheilamalsam.com
