Shortcomings: An Interview With Debut YA Author, Ginger Simpson

Blurb:

High School is hard enough without the cold stares from classmates that remind you every day how different you are.

Our shortcomings don't define who we are, unless we let them. Cindy Johnson needs to learn that. Born with one leg shorter than the other, she has no self-esteem because of the cruel comments and cold stares she receives from her classmates. When Cory Neil, the football quarterback asks her to Homecoming, she's quite sure he's asked her on a dare and refuses. It takes more than just her mother's assurances that Cindy's beautiful before she realizes she may have made a mistake in turning him down.


Sounds like a beautiful story, Ginger! Thanks for the honor of interviewing you, and welcome to the YA world. Now, let the interview begin!

1. Though you've published other works, this is your first YA book; what compelled you to try out this new genre?

As I've told everyone before, my stories are character-driven. Despite the fact that I lean toward western historical romance, Cindy showed up in my head one day with the plot and characters lined up for me. I couldn't say no because I wanted to see where her story, Shortcomings, went. I truly loved connecting with memories of my younger self and relating to her issues.

2. How did you get the idea to create a story with a character with Cindy's physical challenge?

Cindy limped into my head with her physical challenged displayed. I simply let her tell the story while I typed it.

3. Authors often relate to their characters; in this book, which character do you relate most to and why?

Cindy, of course. I sympathized and empthasized, although I don't have a physical defect per se, I've battled the bulge most of my life, so I know what it feels like to have low self-esteem. I can't count the number of times I've been told what a "pretty face" I have. Cindy is truly beautiful and I loved the moment she realized it.

4. What is a favorite scene from one of your books?

I'd have to say that my favorite scene is in Sparta Rose, where Ellie takes Ty up on a shooting match. He's so cocky and she's so feisty, they are the perfect match.

5. What is your writing routine like?

I write when I find time and when my character is talking to me. I've never plotted a book because it doesn't work for me. Right now, I'm getting a little ticked off at Hattie, from my WIP, Hattie's Hero. She's been very stubborn and delaying my completion of her story.

6. Are there any new projects you are currently working on?

Hattie's Hero, but unless she starts talking soon, I'm moving on to On the Rebound.

7. What message do you hope readers will glean from this inspirational story?

I hope to convey the importance of treating one another with kindness and respect. Shortcomings has a study plan that is available with each purchase. I hope to take Cindy's story and the plan to my local schools and hopefully garner interest in speaking with students about bullying, why they do it, how it makes them feel, and how to stop it. It's a big dream, but if I can save one child from feeling worthless, then I will have made a difference.

8. Is there anything else you would like to share with readers?

There is a message in every book I write. My characters have stories to share and I hope I do them justice in the SHOWING. At the end of each book, I pray readers will walk away glad that they read my work.

I'd like to thank my hostess for allowing me to take up space on her blog today. I also invite everyone to come by my website at http://www.gingersimpson.com where I have all my work on display with teasers for each.

Also, my blog, Dishin' It Out, seems to attract a few people, so please stop by and say hello (http://mizging.blogspot.com)

Thanks so much to Ginger for stopping by and giving us an intriguing glimpse of her new work!