Member Spotlight: Carol Roth

Why is writing important to you and why do you think it’s an important medium for the world? Writing is a great form of expression for me. It is a release of so many emotions, and since I like to write children’s books that have a sense of humor, this keeps me smiling.

What are your tried and tested remedies to cure writer’s block? There really are none! I have learned that you can’t force ideas to come. My best advice is to take a break, go for a walk, or dance, or exercise, and generally clear your head. Then come back and try again.

What is your favorite time to write? Early in the morning works best for me, when my mind is fresh and rested.

What’s the best piece of writing advice you’ve ever received and would like to impart to other writers? When I took a children’s book writing class years ago, the teacher emphasized that we should try to simplify our manuscripts. She said when you write for children, simple is better, and I think she was right.

What excites you most about being a writer in today’s age? With everything that is going on in the world today, I think that more than ever children want to be able to read a story that will take them away from stress, let them relax, and most importantly, enjoy themselves.

Carol Roth’s Don’t Be a Bully, Little Tiger, illustrated by Rashin Kheiriyeh, is out June 27 with NorthSouth Books.