Interview with Suzette Brawner

Author of Taming The Family Zoo

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

My husband Jim and I co-authored the book and he asked me to answer for the interview. Jim is from Hot Springs, Arkansas and I, Suzette, am from Little Rock, Arkansas. We met on a blind date at the University of Arkansas.

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

We came to Branson , Missouri to work for a summer camp while in college and eventually moved to Branson to work year round for the camp.

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

We were encouraged by a friend to write a user friendly personality profile book to help parents understand their children. We have 3 grown married kids and nine grandkids ages 16 down to two. The Zoo book material is so helpful even grandparenting.

How would you describe your books to first time readers?

The personality book was our first one and I have written 2 more books with our daughter, Jill Jones; Uncommon Sense and Bark Less Wag More. They are all easy reads with practical suggestions for stronger relationships.

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

Probably women of all ages.

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

There are so many critics. However the biggest one is inside my own head.

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

Writing a book is much more complicated than you can imagine. Strap and just stay with it.

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

As many as possible.

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

Marketing for sure.

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

Writing. I enjoy the journey of getting ideas out of my thoughts onto paper then editing, editing, editing…

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

Marketing. Definitely marketing.

When do you think you will write your next book?

I am working on one now.

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

We have self published, and used traditional publishers.