Interview with Callie Ann Frey

Author of Constellations

Where are you from originally and where do you reside now?

I grew up here in Ohio, and I have been living here for my entire life.

If you currently reside somewhere besides where you were born, what’s the story that lead from there to here?

Lived no where else but here in Ohio.

What made you decide to write and publish your first book?

I have always loved writing, and I always dreamt of publishing my own books at a very young age. I also became in love with poetry itself in high school, and ever since I wrote a lot of poetry. Basically to cope with feelings and what not, and I think that’s why I love poetry so much. I wasn’t even going to publish my poetry collection, Constellations at first, until the idea hit me one evening when I discovered self publishing and knew I wanted my work out there and to share it with others.

How would you describe your books to first time readers?

If you like poetry, then you would probably be interested in reading my poetry collection, Constellations. The book itself has three parts- love hurts, stay strong, and love. So whatever mood you’re feeling, you can definitely find something that you can relate too.

Who do you feel is most likely to connect with the topics you write about?

Honestly, I think all of it would connect with anyone. There’s a lot of sad poetry I think but the poems get less depressing and encourage the reader to stay strong, for it does get better.

What unexpected or surprising thing did you learn during the process of writing and publishing?

I learned A LOT that I didn’t know previously before self publishing. From the layout itself to marketing, and I am still learning a bunch! The unexpected thing about it to me was how much work actually goes into getting the book in physical form. I didn’t know there was so much but in the end, it’s all worth it.

If you could, what advice would you give to your past self before embarking on this journey?

Have patience, and don’t give up. Also, take it slow, and don’t rush things just because you can’t wait to see the finished product… When I first published Constellations, I didn’t hire an editor and I REGRET that. I ended up finding a few mistakes that I had to fix because of it.

How many people would you ideally like to reach with your books?

Ideally, thousands. Right? But just to have someone find my book(s) and read them, that alone makes it worth it and rewarding.

What has been the biggest challenge and frustration during the process to date?

The layout, no doubt. I had to learn how to do page numbers on one side, and not the other and etc. Word can be pretty picky with that kind of stuff. That took me the most time to do, and I am still learning more stuff about layouts and everything else. Though I think for my next book I am going to hire someone.

What’s your biggest strengths when it comes to book a) writing, b) publishing and c) marketing?

Biggest strengths… alright.

a. Probably creating the characters personalities and expressing their emotions, and then also the fact that the ideas will just come to me, like for example my poetry.
b. Having the ability and freedom to do most of it myself, and how I want it. That’s one of the things I love about self publishing.
c. I love designing ads, and adding quotes from my poetry to them. People will be like, “Wow, that’s so interesting. I want to read more!” or at least that’s what I hope ha ha.

What’s your biggest weakness when it comes to book a) writing, b) publishing and c) marketing?

Oh weaknesses…

a. Writers block. I tend to get it a lot and it SUCKS. …And then finishing the book.
b. Writing the blurb usually gets me, and then marketing to attract readers. I’ve yet to figure that out.

When do you think you will write your next book?

I am actually writing my next book right now which is almost complete! This one is a verse novel, and I am working on another poetry collection too.

Are you self published or did you use a hybrid publisher, or a traditional publisher?

I am self published, which I absolutely love and am proud of.