Interview Alisha Paige

by

Tamia Dawn Osburn

1) Can you tell us a little more about The Wooden Nickel?

This book is very important to me. I've dedicated it to my grandparents, Louise and Cliff Pemberton and use their names for the hero and heroine. It opens up during The Great Depression and progresses into what I consider one of the most interesting times in America's history. To me, this was a time of innocence while America was still a little naive and very united. I love this time period; the music, the romance, the patriotism, the nostalgia... sigh.

2) Where did the idea come from to write The Wooden Nickel?

The very first time I had an inkling to write a story from this time period was when I read an old telegram from my grandfather to my grandmother when he was overseas fighting as a paratrooper during WWII. I also read some love letters he sent her while he was away and just knew I had to write something about this important time in history.

3) Anymore stories are in store for us from The Great Depression era?

I sure hope so. There’s nothing in the works now but I’m bouncing some ideas around.

4) While not hard at work, what do you like to do to help you relax?

I enjoy spending time with my two girls, 11 and 3 and we have a brand new baby boy. He was our Christmas present last year. I love to read of course and spend time outdoors. And I adore red wine and dark chocolate, two of life’s little luxuries.

5) Who inspired to become a writer?

I’ve always loved to write. It’s what I do best and it shined through while in school at a young age. I had an English teacher tell my in high school that I have “a spark” so that really set my pen ablaze.

6) Any other era’s that you would like to write about?

I’d love to write a story set during the Civil War, another very important time period in America’s history.

7) What are your hopes and dreams of being a writer?

To continue writing and bringing something fresh and enjoyable to my readers, something that people can reflect on, talk about and most importantly something that “moves people”.

8) Do you have any hobbies that you would like to tell us about?

I love to sing. I was very involved in choral music at one time in my life until I became a mommy and didn’t really have the time. I still love to sing. I’ve sang on the stage of Radio City Music Hall in New York City and the Meyerson in Dallas, Texas. I also sang solo in a country opry in Garland, Texas with my own back up band. All of those experiences are memories I will always cherish.

9) What are the most frustrating aspects of being a writer?

Trying to convince others that I have to write every day, just like a real job.

10) What do you do to settle the conflicts between you and the characters you write about?

Hmm… I don’t really have personal conflicts with my characters since I’m in control, but I believe that love conquers all, in real life and in the stories I write. When I face any kind of conflict or challenge, I try my best to resolve it with understanding, patience and love. I try to see any situation from the other person’s point of view. If that doesn’t work, I just write a love scene. Sometimes we should all just hush and make love.

11) How do you get around writer’s block?

I rarely get writer’s block but if I do, it’s usually because I’m distracted by my children or too many other things on my mind like housework, bills, grocery shopping. Once I take care of my other duties, I find I can write with even background noise. I need to calm down, sip some wine and get my thoughts together. By the way, I never once experienced writer’s block while writing The Wooden Nickel. The words just flowed from my fingertips onto the keyboard. This story, the characters, the time period really moved me. Even during edits, I was crying while reading this story.