Interview With Author - Jennifer Jeanne Patterson
Name: Jennifer Jeanne Patterson
Website: www.newly-weds.com
Contact: jennifer@52fights.com
Questions:
Q: Where are you originally from?
A: I’m originally from Ithaca, NY.
Q: Can you tell us your latest book news?
A: My first book, 52 FIGHTS: A Newlywed’s Confession, was recently released by Penguin/Berkley Trade. It’s a collection of essays about what happens when the person you love most of all drives you absolutely crazy. My husband, Matt, and I will be featured in an upcoming TV show (airing Aug 1st), Current Newlyweds, talking about 52 FIGHTS.
Q: How old were you when you first started writing?
A: Around sixteen. I wrote creative stories for a good friend of mine.
Q: When did you first realize you had the potential to be a writer?
A: While in college. I took a creative writing class and my professor encouraged me to continue writing.
Q: What was your inspiration to write your first novel?
A: The problems in our marriage! I found writing about them cathartic (52 FIGHTS started as a syndicated column called Newlyweds). But what surprised me was how much closer my writing brought us. Matt would look at a draft and say, “That’s not how I think!” It made me realize that often there is no wrong or right; it’s all a matter of perspective. Now, my biggest inspiration to write is still my husband -but in a very positive way. He is incredibly supportive and encouraging.
Q: Is there anyone or anything that inspired you to write?
A: I’ve always been somewhat of an emotional person and it’s nice to have an outlet for my feelings.
Q: How has your environment/upbringing colored your writing?
A: My mom, who is very imaginative, has always encouraged me to be creative. She taught me how to make piñatas and gingerbread houses and dresses for my dolls.
Q: Do you have a specific writing style?
A: I’ve been told my writing is very honest, as well as clear, concise and straight forward.
Q: What genre are you most comfortable writing?
A: Nonfiction, but I’m starting to dabble in fiction.
Q: How do you come up with the title(s) for your book(s)?
A: When Matt and I first married, I felt we were fighting at least once a week. Hence the title, 52 FIGHTS.
Q: Is there a message in your novel that you want readers to grasp?
A: Despite the title, 52 FIGHTS is a very positive book. It’s written for women like me who struggle to balance their relationship, career, and a myriad of societal expectations. I’d like readers to hear their own voice in it and find comfort in it.
Q: How much of the novel is realistic?
A: All of it.
Q: Are experiences based on someone you know, or events in your life?
A: Yes, they’re based on my marriage. 52 FIGHTS also features three good friends of mine who encountered similar challenges during their first year of marriage, one of whom had the added pressure of becoming a step mom.
Q: What books have most influenced your life?
A: Henry Green’s books. The power of his work made me want to write.
Q: If you had to choose, which writer would you consider a mentor?
A: Josip Novakovich. Not only is he a wonderful writer, but he has helped me tremendously with my own work.
Q: What are you reading now?
A: The Tipping Point. I’m fascinated by it, by how epidemics start.
Q: What new author has grasped your interest?
A: Leif Enger. I bought his book, PEACE LIKE A RIVER, before boarding an airplane, and it was so engrossing that I barely remember the flight.
Q: Is there anything additional you would like to share with your readers?
A: I hope you enjoy 52 FIGHTS! If you do, please share it with your engaged and newlywed friends. And I’d love to hear about the challenges you encounter in your own marriages.