Interview with Lori Roth

Author of The Journal Book: Your Journaling Journey

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

I am originally from the United States (seriously – all over) father is a former marine, ex-husband FBI. I now reside in Sarasota, FL with my wonderful husband, Angel and our rescue dog, Remmy.

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

I have always wanted to live in Florida and my parent and 1 sister live close by. I love the water.

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

It has been a dream of mine to be an author. I’ve had many books in my head and some that I have started. The Journal Book: Your journaling journey is what I know best.

How would you describe your books to first time readers?

I started journaling when I was 12 years old – I am 56 now – so it has been a long time (you do the math). I never went more than a month without journaling. I would like to share my “wisdom” about journaling, and the many different types of journals and why it can help you get thin, sane, and wealthier (and other wonderful things).

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

Anyone who loves self-development, has stress in their lives or wishes to write an autobiography (choose one). Also, this book is interesting and educational.

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

That I needed help and I can rely on some very good friends/family. I thought writing was a solo sport, it turns out that I got a lot of cool idea from my friends, family, and even some strangers.

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

LOL – Do you mean my journaling journey or my book journey. Advice about my journaling journey is in the book. Advice to myself before embarking on the writing/publishing journey? Ask people you love what you know best – take their advice. Also, Just finish!

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

As many as possible. People would be a lot happier and healthier if they would journal.

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

I really don’t like the details of editing. I thank my Editor, Liz and my wonderful family – Carol, Tami, and Sheril.. OK not blood related buy they are all my “sisters”. OK I think Carol is related.

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

writing – I love to share ideas and help people.
Publishing – I am persistent- and I had a lot of help from the good people at Balboa Press!
marketing – ummm. none really. I am quite shy about marketing my book.

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

writing – finishing.
Publishing – I know more now but I didn’t know anything then – Balboa Press was awesome (and they still are awesome).
marketing – all of it – except answering questions about my book. I love to answer qs.

When do you think you will write your next book?

Soon. I have a working title and many ideas – it is related.

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

I used Balboa Press.