Comments on: The 5-Question [Author] Interview: Novelist Ellen Meister

By: Ellen Meister

Ellen Meister — Tue, 12 Jan 2010 20:57:26 +0000

Alexandra, you are a sweetheart! Thank you!! I’m glad you like the interview.

Sonia, thanks for the kind comment … and I’m glad the “what if” scenario struck a chord with you.

Tom, thank you … and I’m glad you like The Raving! Now you got me thinking about all the sets of three in my life. Hm …

By: Tom McCranie

Tom McCranie — Tue, 12 Jan 2010 17:33:17 +0000

I appreciate the way Ellen illustrated how the relationships of her characters helped drive her stories. I noted that in Ellen’s first two books there is a trio of main characters (the PTA friends and the sisters). I wonder if there will be a trio in her third book, too. Also, is there a causal relationship between the trio of main characters, she writes in “third person,” is working on her third novel, and the fact she has three children? (Meredith, your question about “creations as children” brought on my question.)

Thank you Ellen and thank you Meredith

PS Ellen’s blog is very interesting. I loved The Raving.

By: Sonia Marsh

Sonia Marsh — Tue, 12 Jan 2010 05:12:38 +0000

Great interview and as a mother of 3 sons, I often wonder what my life would have been like had I chosen not to marry and lived the life of a female nomad: living in different parts of the world is both a dream and a reality. Another story for me to think about. Thanks for inspiring us.

By: Alexandra Goodwin

Alexandra Goodwin — Tue, 12 Jan 2010 01:23:54 +0000

Ellen, excellent interview, intelligent questions, enlightening answers!!! Thank you for sharing your insights with other writers. Very creative way to look at the blade of grass story. If we as writers are the angels whispering for it to grow, what is the water that waters it? Is it talent? Perseverance? Inspiration? Hard work?
In addition, your style is amazingly refreshing and unique. I love it!!!

By: Ellen Meister

Ellen Meister — Tue, 12 Jan 2010 00:13:04 +0000

Amy, I’d bet money he was smoking while writing it. And I do treasure it!

Jennifer, I appreciate that! I’ve heard from book clubs on both novels, but The Smart One has discussion questions in the back. Also, when my schedule allows, I do phone-in book club appearances. I don’t know if your group has ever done that, but it can be a lot of fun. My website has info: ellenmeister.com.

By: Jennifer Margulis

Jennifer Margulis — Mon, 11 Jan 2010 23:31:28 +0000

This is a fascinating interview. I’ve never heard of Ellen Meister but am looking forward to reading her books. Maybe I’ll suggest one to my book club. Thanks Meredith!

By: Amy Wallen

Amy Wallen — Mon, 11 Jan 2010 16:54:13 +0000

Ellen, I love that Richard Yates called you “girl”. It’s so Mad Men. I suspect he was smoking a cigarette when he was writing his inscription. And you can tell he meant everything he said because he kept going. Love it! Relish every word!

By: Ellen Meister

Ellen Meister — Mon, 11 Jan 2010 13:57:13 +0000

Such lovely comments!

Martha/me, thanks so much. I hope you like it.

Kristen, much appreciated. And for sure, the learning is an ongoing process.

Linda, so glad you liked it.

Donna, that delights me. Thanks!

Kerri, what a great compliment! Thank you.

By: Kerri Fivecoat-Campbell

Kerri Fivecoat-Campbell — Mon, 11 Jan 2010 13:30:17 +0000

This little witty gem, “People have often told me I need to get a thicker skin, but they never tell me where to buy one. Do they sell those online? I’ve looked at Target and they always seem to be out of stock,” has convinced me this is an author I must read! I can’t wait for your new novel, I love the concept.

By: Donna Hull

Donna Hull — Mon, 11 Jan 2010 12:39:41 +0000

I enjoyed the interview. Ellen provides valuable advice on writing fiction. Now I’m going to buy her book and read it.