Meet Donna McDine

Q. Tell us something about yourself
A. Isn’t it amazing as writers we are anxious to get our words/stories on paper, but when it comes to talking about ourselves we come to a screeching halt (at least in my case). For some reason or another I find it much easier to be positive for others than myself, especially in terms of rejection letters. In an effort to overcome my insecurities I’ve teamed up with a fellow writer as an accountability partner and it keeps me more focused and positive. Of course the virtual slap upside my head from time to time helps.

Q. Who is your favorite author? Favorite book?
This has changed dramatically since I began writing in 2007. My past favorite authors were always the big names, Danielle Steele, James Paterson, Stephen King…you get my drift. Now I tend to gravitate to the lesser known author’s who have as much talent and to be fair for those of you who’ve I enjoyed over the last several years I’m not going to name names in fear of missing someone. Especially since my list is ever growing. And to pinpoint one specific would be impossible for the same reason. My apologies for being so aloof.

Q. Tell us a bit about your book?
A: Be transported through time to the Underground Railroad, where high-pitched screams echo each night. David’s cruel Pa always chooses the same victim. Despite the circumstances during slavery, David uncovers the courage to defy his Pa.
Raised in a hostile environment where abuse occurs daily, David attempts to break the mold and befriends the slave, Jenkins, owned by his Pa. Fighting against extraordinary times and beliefs, David leads Jenkins to freedom with no regard for his own safety and possible consequences dealt out by his Pa.

Q. How did you come to write about the Underground Railroad?
A. History has always fascinated me, even as a young child. And when I found myself taking up residence (as an adult) in the historical hamlet of Tappan, NY (Rockland County) I became even more enthralled. Coupled with my father’s involvement with the Rockland County Historical Society in creating artist replicas of the numerous historical locations throughout the county I found myself further drawn into the past. Then as a student at the Institute of Children’s Literature I jumped at the chance to develop a historical fiction story about a young southern boy against slavery.

Q. What do you think the relevance of the Underground Railroad is to today’s kids?
A. Overcoming adversity against immeasurable odds and that with determination success in achieving your dreams is possible.

Q. How did you go about doing your research?
A. Initially online, then visiting the Tappan Library and thoroughly researching the Underground Railroad.

Q. What are you working on now?
A. As to no surprise another historical fiction manuscript based around the USS Constitution and how boys (as young as 11) were kidnapped by the Press Gangs and forced into hard labor on ships.

Q. What do you want readers to take away from your book?
A. With conviction of knowing between right and wrong one person can make a difference.

Q. Any tips for aspiring writers?
A. Get involved in a writer’s critique group, whether at your local library, community center, or online. Several resources online:
Children’s Writers’ Coaching Club http://www.cwcoachingclub.com
Muse Online Writers Conference <a href="http://www.themuseonlinewritersconference.com “>http://www.themuseonlinewritersconference.com

Q. Where can readers buy your book?
A. The Golden Pathway is slotted for an August 2010 publication and exact date is forthcoming. Upon publication The Golden Pathway can be purchased at http://www.guardianangelpublishing.com;
http://www.amazon.com;
http://www.barnesandnoble.com .

Q. Any last words?
A. I want to take the opportunity to thank all who have helped me along the way in achieving my dream as an author. Of course beginning with my loving and supportive husband, Tom and daughter’s Nicole and Hayley, my parents, in-laws, extended family and friends, and the dear writing communities I’m involved with both online and in person. Just like it takes a village to raise a child, it takes a nurturing personal and writing community to birth an author. Thank you!

The Golden Pathway, by Donna McDine

The Golden Pathway by Donna McDine