Author interview with Karen Sherman, Ph.D.
Most of my time is spent as a practicing Psychologist and also teaching. But I love to do lots of things rather than the same routine. After lots of different experiences, I felt the need to share them with others and felt the best way to do it was through a book. Initially, I co-authored “Marriage Magic! Find It, Keep It, and Make It Last” to help couples rejuvenate their stale relationships. I tend to write about what I have experienced. I also write for various websites regarding relationships, which is one of my specialties.
1. Tell us about your latest book.
My latest book, “Mindfulness and The Art of Choice: Transform Your Life” is a self-help book that enables the reader to get past their past. It’s the result of a personal journey that was quite devastating from which I recovered with a lot of lessons on how to live a life of choice, a life of joy rather than being a prisoner to your past. After going through such an experience, I felt compelled to share with others what I had learned so that they, too, could live a better life.
2. How did you get started as a writer?
As I said, after going through my own experiences I guess I was a bit egotistical in thinking others could benefit from what I had learned!
3. What does a typical day look like for you?
Each day varies – which I love. But generally, it’s a mix between seeing clients, teaching, writing, and Fridays is left for watching my grandson. That’s really the best day of the week.
4. Describe your desk/workspace.
Organized clutter. I can find anything as long as I don’t get frustrated going through the piles.
5. Favorite books (especially for writers).
Just about anything Deepak Chopra has written and I have fun with James Patterson’s Alex Cross series when on vacation.
6. Tell us 3 interesting/crazy things about you.
– As a psychologist, I’m a bit unusual in that I’m willing to share personal information if I think it will benefit the client.
– My next book is about in-laws. Yep – you got it, another experience I’m going through that I think might help others.
– I couldn’t care less if alcohol was never on the face of this planet again; but bagels and ice cream – not that’s a whole different thing!
7. Favorite quote: “I took the road less traveled and that has made all of the difference.” (Robert Frost)
8. Best and worst part of being a writer
Best – People hold you in high regard.
Worst – Marketing the book so you can get your message out.
9. Advice for other writers:
It’s true what is said – writing the book is the easy part; getting it published and marketing it is the real work. You need to be persistent and believe in what you have to offer.
10. Tell us a story about your writing experience.
After self-publishing my first book, I decided to go the more traditional route for the second one. It was a challenge finding an agent to represent me (also part of the process). I still remember the day he signed me on – I felt so validated – someone believed in my work! A year and a half later, though there had been a couple of bites, none of the larger houses wanted to take me on. Supposedly, my title wasn’t sexy enough. My agent and I parted ways – certainly not the same exhilarating feeling as the initial one.
A small independent house, however, showed an interest in publishing my book. I was apprehensive in signing on with them. But I had heard all sorts of stories about how I would still be required to do a large portion of the market with a large publishing house and that if the book didn’t take off in 90 days, it would be problematic.
So I took the risk and signed. I have such a nice relationship with the company and get such personal attention and backing. I’ve never regretted it!
Where can people buy your book?
My book can be purchased through any online bookstore (Amazon.com, Borders.com, Barnes&Noble.com) or through either of my sites: www.drkarensherman.com or www.ChoiceRelationships.com.
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