Interview with Jolie Dubriel

Author of Red and Blue: A Reimagined Fairytale

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

I reside in my hometown of Oberlin, Louisiana. It’s a rural area pretty much quiet around here in the sticks.

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

I was born in Alexandria, Louisiana. The youngest child of three. I was mostly raised in a single-parent home which reflects Red Riding Hood’s home life in the story. Much of Red’s life reflects mine growing up; living in the woods, playing on a small farm and getting into some trouble as a child. Unlike Red, I had an older sister and brother, so I wasn’t completely alone, but I was constantly dreaming of other places.

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

I’ve always wanted to publish a book. I started writing poetry, stories, and journal at the age of thirteen. I had the story in the beginning, it just seemed that publishing a book was like a distant dream. Until I met someone who showed that being published is not a distant dream but a goal to achieve. A goal that I wanted to try even if it fell through. I found my local publisher in Lake Charles then went from there to editing the manuscript, making the cover and selling the books. I am grateful to have found my publisher. She is amazing.

How would you describe your books to first time readers?

The book is really an easy read. If you are looking for a fast read, this is the book for you. I know that there are hundreds of stories re imagined and rewritten for Red Riding Hood, but I wanted to stick the original story. My questions while writing was “What happened after she got out of the wolf’s belly? Where did she go and what did she do?” My greatest inspiration for this story is the 1987 Broadway Musical “Into the Woods.”

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

I would hope that the story connects to anyone who has ever felt alone or has made a mistake that they seem to can’t shake from. For me, I’ve always felt alone as a child. I always felt invisible even in a crowd of people or even with my small group of friends. I’ve never felt like I fit in anywhere. I’ve learned that it’s okay not to fit and not be like everyone else. I now shrive to be me no matter what anyone else thinks about me.

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

The most unexpecting that is that I can write a story that makes sense and it’s complete. I have 12 journals with half-written stories and ideas that don’t make sense. This is the most surprising thing I have ever done in my life. I’m just thankful that there are readers out there that are still looking for a good story to read.

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

Don’t stop dreaming. Don’t’ be hard on yourself or quick to be discouraged. It’s okay to make mistakes and let TIME run its course. I strongly believe that if it’s meant to be it’ll be no matter what happens or how long it takes. Being patience has its rewards. Along with faith in the good Lord above.

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

Ideally, the state of Louisiana, but if the story could reach others wherever they may be. I’m okay with that. I’m surprised to get this interview in my email from all the way in Delaware. Something must be happening so thank you for reaching out.

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

The biggest challenge and frustration is funding the publishing of the book. Local Publishing has its own rewards, but it’s not something tons of people at my age do. I took a leap of faith and am continuing to leap, but there are some drawbacks and pauses that go along with Local Publishing. I don’t regret going in this direction because I have learned much about publishing and about myself. It’s a continuing life journey.

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

My biggest strengths is writing. I’ve learned to let the words bleed on the paper. I’ve allowed myself to be vulnerable and let my emotions spill out into the story. Writing is very therapeutic to me and a way to get my scrabbled thoughts in order.

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

My biggest weakness is marketing. I’m still very new at selling myself. I’m a naturally shy person so to just be out there selling me is like standing on a stage in a Broadway play. Being center stage is frightening to me while I prefer to be three persons down to the left backstage.

When do you think you will write your next book?

I’m currently working on book 2. My goal, this time around, was to write 100,000 words and I have succeeded that goal. I have the manuscript and have it edited by friends but not professionally, yet. Like the first go around, I know it’ll be a process but hopefully, before 2020 ends this story will be out. That is a goal of mine.

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

I’m published locally and they are amazing. I have never felt so at ease or judged by my stories. They are so supportive and my personal cheerleaders. Shout out the ALLY-GATOR BOOKBITES from Lake Charles! I wouldn’t trade their friendship for the world.

Thank you AuthorVoices.com for these amazing questions. I had a great time. Thank you for this opportunity to tell my small story. Thank you again.