Member Spotlight: Maria Wen Adcock

Why is writing important to you and why do you think it’s an important medium for the world? Writing is important to me not just for self-expression, but also to share perspectives with others who may have no other opportunities to do so. For example, when I was a kid, I never saw characters in books with my background (Chinese American). I wanted to write a book, but thought it was for other people who didn’t look like me, so I tucked that idea away for decades. Eventually, I found my way back to my childhood dream. I want to share my multicultural-themed books with kids today so they can see themselves and dream. It’s what I would have wanted when I was a child. Writing has the power to do this, and that’s why it’s an important medium for the world.

What are your tried and tested remedies to cure writer’s block?  I typically need to step away from the manuscript if I have writer’s block. It may take a while, but eventually new ideas come to my mind to help me get through the block. If the manuscript feels forced, then it probably is. As such, it’s better to get it time to sit until my mind is fresh and can be open to finding a new way to let the story flow.

What is your favorite time to write? The best time for me to write is during the day when I’m fully awake. Often, I don’t have time to write until late at night after work is done and the kids are in bed. But I find it difficult to write when I’m tired. If I can find time during the day to write, that’s when I do my best work!

What’s the best piece of writing advice you’ve ever received and would like to impart to other writers? Join a critique group. We’re often too close to our story to see the flaws. Having others review your manuscript and make suggestions is one of the best things writers can do to improve their work.

What excites you most about being a writer in today’s age? I’m excited that with today’s technology, we have more opportunities to reach a wider audience. We’re able to use social media and other digital platforms to spread the word about our books.

Maria Wen Adcock’s My Name is Ai Lin, illustrated by Yu Ting Cheng, is out now with Sleeping Bear Press.