Today we’d like to introduce you to Veronica Jarboe.

Hi Veronica, thanks for joining us today. We’d love for you to start by introducing yourself.

Well, when I was a child I used to try to imitate my mother’s handwriting. Her cursive was so elegant so I pretended to write like her even before I could actually form letters. Once school taught me how to read and write, it was game over. I was writing stories and stories and it felt natural to me. My best friend and I used to have “writing play dates!” which was wonderful. As I’ve gotten older my style and voice have changed and I’m constantly working on growing in any way I can. I knew I always wanted to write and publish books, and now that I have, it feels surreal. I’m just getting started though!

We all face challenges, but looking back would you describe it as a relatively smooth road?

I think anyone that says they’ve had a “smooth road” is probably kidding themselves. There are always obstacles, but some might not be so substantial. Personally, some of the challenges I’ve experienced has a lot to do with keeping myself focused, which I’ve become better at over the years. Also, there aren’t too many opportunities where I live for writers and artists. The artistic and literary scene is definitely growing, but it requires us to make our own opportunities where we can. Keeping relationships and contacts alive helps a lot. You never know who you’ll run into or who can help you.

Thanks – so what else should our readers know about your work and what you’re currently focused on?

Interestingly, I would say I am an artist. I am a dance instructor as well as a writer. I’ve always loved the arts even though I am not an artist in the traditional sense like a painter or muralist. I’d say living in the creative space is where I truly love to be, and being able to share anything at all, whether it be, poems, a book, my dance knowledge, and have it received in return is one of the best feelings I’ve experienced. I am proud of that, but it still takes work to be able to open yourself up for possible rejection, which I still grapple with. In the end, not trying or not putting something out there at all is worse than anything else.

Do you have recommendations for books, apps, blogs, etc?

This is a fun question! Well, apps like Reedsy and Scrivener are invaluable when crafting longer works of fiction because they help you to stay organized and keeps everything in one place. Honestly, keeping on top of whatever it is you’re trying to do is the best thing, and to learn as much as you can.

Contact Info:

• Instagram: @veronicajarboe

Image Credits

Ilich Najera
Jan Zeboski