1) Tell us a little bit about yourself. How did you get into writing?
Writing is something I’ve done for as long as I can remember, jotting down ideas and random thoughts. I studied literature at university, completing a degree in English and psychology.
However, I pursued a career in psychology, working in counseling, vocational rehabilitation and psychometry. But my love of literature and passion for writing always remained, which I’m now focused on. And I’m excited and nervous to share my debut novel.
2) What inspired you to write your book?
My fascination with abandoned buildings and old theaters inspired The Abandoned Theater. I’m intrigued by the buildings themselves, the grand lobbies, ornate ceilings and rich tapestries throughout. And the shared experience as an audience reacts to the actors in unison, holding their breath, gasping, and laughing.
I pictured a theater standing in eerie silence and imagined what could have happened, causing it to be abandoned. I envisioned the audience settling into their seats, the anticipation building, then silence as the last performance begins. Their eyes widening, and gasps echoing as fear took hold. I imagined them scrambling over the seats, spilling into the aisles, desperate to escape.
Then I built the story around the mystery of that theater.
3) What theme or message do you hope readers will take away from your book?
The Abandoned Theater while, intended as a fun escape and easy read, touches on deeper themes middle graders could encounter. Hopefully, the reader can relate to some of what the characters are experiencing, and their friendships while highlighting discovery and resilience.
4) What drew you into this particular genre?
I write mystery, science fiction and fantasy. I particularly enjoy writing middle grade fantasy because it frees your imagination to explore fantastical worlds and to go on magical adventures.
Middle schoolers are full of wonder and curiosity. And it’s fun to reflect how it felt at that age.
5) If you could sit down with any character in your book, what would you ask them and why?
I would sit down with Darthius and ask if he regrets any of his choices, knowing now where they led.
6) What social media site has been the most helpful in developing your readership?
I’m not very savvy with social media, although I’m currently exploring Instagram and finding some wonderful connections.
7) What advice would you give to aspiring or just starting authors out there?
The best advice I ever received is after you write your first novel, put it away. Then write at least a couple more and read. When you go back to the original one, you’ll realize how much can be improved after honing your skills, practicing, reading and learning.
8) What does the future hold in store for you? Any new books/projects on the horizon?
The Abandoned Theater is book one of the Alderland Series, soon to be followed by book two, Return to Gatland. I’m also completing the final rewrites of an adult mystery novel, Murder in Rockwell Estates.
ABOUT THE AUTHOR
Dana Robertson lives in Oshawa, Ontario, Canada. She completed a bachelor’s degree in English Literature and Psychology with Trent University in Peterborough Ontario, followed by a graduate creative writing program with the Humber School for Writers in Toronto, Ontario.
Formerly, a vocational rehabilitation consultant, psychometrist, youth counselor, and a small business operator.
She writes fantasy, mystery, science fiction and middle grade fiction. When she’s not writing, she enjoys traveling, nature, hiking and reading.The Abandoned Theater is her debut novel and book one of the Alderland Series.
Links to sites:
Author website: www.danarobertsonbooks.com
Publisher website: Abandoned Theater, The from Our Street
Instagram: Instagram
Facebook: Facebook
Purchase links:
Barnes and Noble: The Abandoned Theater by Dana Robertson, Paperback | Barnes & Noble®
Walmart: Alderland The Abandoned Theater, (Paperback) – Walmart.com
