Triple Play Interview with Nancy Lepri

Since embarking on my writing career in 2007 I have developed the love of interviewing fellow authors. Nancy is another “angel” I met through Guardian Angel Publishing. Her illustrious career is one of author, illustrator, and editor. Read about Nancy’s fascinating life and career through this insightful interview.

DMc: You have led quite the adventurous life moving many times. What did you find to be the most difficult once settled in your new location to get your creative groove back?

NL: It was difficult moving, but I guess my husband doesn’t like to get any moss under his feet. Anyway, I’ve always been more or less a solitary type who loves to read and create. The first thing I always did upon moving was find the closest library. Now, thanks to the Internet, and the fact that I have TONS of books yet to be read, that’s not necessary. I like to hole up in my office and visualize what I want to write or draw. When I know what that is, I sit down at the computer and type, type, type, which I know many authors say you should not do, but I have tried writing from an outline and find I always seem to deviate from them. Unfortunately, I tend to write like I talk…too much! So, I end up going through what I’ve written and cut, cut, cut. I’ve found it much easier to cut than add. When it comes to drawing, I love to sit quietly and envision what I want to do, but I’m my own worst critic and usually my finished illustrations do not come out as I see them in my head.

DMc: What can a writer expect when collaborating on a book with you?


NL: I’m very easy to get along with. I love hearing new ideas and suggestions and working with talented people.

DMc: Your children’s chapter book, Tiny Angel was released in November 2009, please share with us your inspiration behind this delightful story.


NL: First off, thank you for saying it’s delightful! My inspiration behind this book comes from the fact that as a child I was a bookworm, very shy and wore glasses, which causes me to be the brunt of the class bully. I was very insecure and felt like I never fit in. My strong belief in guardian angels helped me through some tough times and my own personal angel is named Jody, same as Macy’s in the book. Many times I was lonely and when I got older, I learned I was not the only kid who felt that way. I thought by putting a little of my childhood angst into this book it would show other children they are not alone.

DMc: Do you find it difficult to switch from writer/illustrator to editor?


NL: I started writing almost twenty years ago. I was working as an editorial assistant for a publisher and realized my love of writing and editing. My first credits were with local newspapers and when we moved to NC, I wrote for the “Wilmington Magazine”. I had started writing “Tiny Angel” earlier, but had put it aside. Next I wrote for national and international food-industry trade magazines which paid very well, but I was not able to use my creativity with non-fiction, so I gave that up. Then I got assigned to illustrate several children’s books and with the urging (really nagging!) of my critique group, I got back to “Tiny Angel”. Meanwhile, to keep diversified, I got certified as an editor through Cape Fear Community College in 2006 and have had many freelance jobs. I also review books for New York Journal of Books and ReaderToReader.com. This way I’m never bored!

DMc: What can we expect from you in the future?


NL: I am working on a sequel to “Tiny Angel” and have started Tommy’s story. After that, I hope to write two more books in the series, the last being the bully’s story. I believe every child has insecurities or fears, and so many feel alone because of them. I hope my books will show kids there are others going through the same feeling and they are not alone.

DMc: A signature request I like to ask every author, illustrator, editor, etc., I interview is for the individual to share with us a tidbit from their lives that the reader will find either humorous or surprising. Nancy, can you please share one with us?


NL: I lead rather a boring life and don’t know if I can impart anything humorous or surprising about my work. I guess I could say what surprises me most is that I cannot read anything just for the pleasure of reading. I am always finding errors or making corrections, so it seems I’m always in the editor mode. Though I do have to say, the more I read, the more I learn, which I hope will help me become a better author.

To learn more about Nancy visit: http://nancycl.webs.com/