Annie Louise Twitchell is a writer, poet, artist, journalist, and first responder living and working in Rural Maine. When she is not scribbling down words or getting into mischief, she can usually be found wandering around the woods and mountains of Maine's High Peaks.
Do you have anything published?
I am releasing my fourteenth book, The People We Know, on June 1. My other titles include poetry collections, children's books, short stories and essays, and a novel.
Is there any personal backstory to your publication(s) that you want to share about?
This upcoming release is possibly one of my favorite books so far. Born out of all the "in-between" moments I've seen in my different jobs, these are fictional short stories inspired by real people.
What first got you into writing?
I have always wanted to write. When I was about five or six years old, I taught myself to write in cursive like my great-grandmother so I could 'write pretty' just like her. For me, writing is just an extension of who I am as a person.
What is your favorite genre to write?
I love to write about people. Lately, that's been contemporary fiction, especially stories that are ultimately positive and uplifting.
What is your favorite genre to read?
I can never decide. I've been alternating between classic fiction like Mary Shelley and Jane Austen, and more modern authors in a variety of genres.
What do you enjoy doing other than writing?
I love being outdoors. I spend a lot of time walking, hiking, gardening, getting lost in the woods, and doing nature photography. I also love helping people, and I do a lot of different things towards that.
What upcoming projects do you have?
My day job is in journalism, and my books come as inspiration leads. I have a couple novels I'm working on, but most likely my next publication will be another collection of poetry.
If you could give any author or poet one tip, what would it be?
I do a lot of teaching and speaking with young writers, and the most important thing I tell them is to just practice writing. Writing is a skill, just like anything else. If you want to get good at a sport, you practice a lot - writing is the same way. Practice, practice, practice!
Anything else you want to share about yourself?
I always want to remind people that no matter what barriers you face, if you have a dream, chase it. I am an author with dyslexia, a first responder with PTSD, and a journalist with ADHD. I grew up in rural Maine with limited resources and opportunities, and I had to work hard to get where I am, but it's always possible.
Where can people find out more information about you?
On my Facebook page and on my website! AnnieLouiseTwitchell.com and Facebook.com/AnnieLouiseTwitchell
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