Alright – so today we’ve got the honor of introducing you to Penny Frost McGinnis. We think you’ll enjoy our conversation, we’ve shared it below.

Hi Penny, thanks for joining us today. Learning the craft is often a unique journey from every creative – we’d love to hear about your journey and if knowing what you know now, you would have done anything differently to speed up the learning process.

If I were to choose one thing that inspired me as a writer, I’d have to acknowledge reading as my greatest influence. I’m a book lover and can never have enough books. I’ve often heard teachers say, “If you want to be a writer, be a reader.” When I speak to children about writing, I parrot those words. I read in the genre I write in, but also in other genres.

For twenty-five years, I journeyed on the path to published author. When I started out, I penned stories and poems for children. Certain my work as a children’s librarian set me on that path, I soon found out I needed to wait. Instead, I heard God’s voice (in my head) calling me to write novels. I admit I went into this turn of events saying a blatant no. The more I said no, the closer I drew to yes. I had no idea how to write a novel, plus I wasn’t getting any younger.

I’d been exposed to fiction most of my life but had no clue how to write it. Back before the internet connected me to so many resources, I attended in person classes and writers’ groups and joined the American Christian Fiction Writers. I read a mountain of how to write books and studied the novels I read.

My first penned novel became my proving ground. The place where I struggled to apply what I’d learned. That particular story still resides, hidden in my computer files. Maybe some day I’ll have the courage to resurrect it and wrestle it into a readable story. Footnote here: This novel could have discouraged me, but what I’ve learned is—everything I write improves my skills, and nothing I write is a waste of time.

Remember, I mentioned God in my writing. He knew what I didn’t. After my novels found a home with a publisher, so did my first children’s picture book with the bonus of having my youngest daughter illustrate it. The full circle touched my heart.

Of all the skills I’ve learned, the most important is to keep learning and be open to my critique partners and editor. I appreciate the efforts of an editor and their intent to make the work better.

Working a full-time job and caring for a family kept me busy. Instead of allowing that to stop me, I grabbed what I could, where I could. I’m thankful to my husband and family for supporting me in my efforts. When I retired, the doors opened, and my hard work paid off.

You asked how I could speed up the process. I don’t think I could have, except to start sooner in my life. Had I started writing for publication at a younger age, I may or may not have had the same opportunities. I find I work better if I take a day at a time and allow the day to flow.

Great, appreciate you sharing that with us. Before we ask you to share more of your insights, can you take a moment to introduce yourself and how you got to where you are today to our readers.

I’m the author of the Abbott Island series and picture book, Betsy and Bailey: No One Will be Just Like You. I’ve lived in the world of books most of my life. From checking out books to my cousins in my bedroom “library”, working in the library in high school, and eventually working in the public library, elementary school library, and college library. I think I’ve spent more time with books than people. I retired from library life, then focused more on my writing journey. My husband and I live in southwest Ohio with our golden retriever, Rosie May. I love spending time with our children and grands, creating fiber arts, and watching baseball. My life’s goal is to encourage and uplift through my writing.

As a lover of books and a librarian, writing a book seemed the next natural step. In high school, in the seventies, I wrote the typical poetry of the times and dreamed of someday writing something substantial. Fast forward through years of raising children, working, and living life. I started to pursue writing for publication when I turned forty. Twenty-five years later, my first novel, Home Where She Belongs, was published by a small independent press. Yes, twenty-five years placed me in my sixties. It’s never too late to pursue a dream.

A thread of hope is woven through everything I write. Without hope, I can’t function in this world. I want my writing to resonate with people who need encouragement or simply to be entertained with a break from the every day.

I’m most proud that I didn’t give up. Writing is a tough business. My husband, Tim, and our children, family, and friends cheered me on. Plus, my writer friends and I encouraged each other. Positive reviews keep me writing along with the hope I’ve brightened someone’s day.

My brand includes my faith, along with the love of family. My Abbott Island series is romance, with a dash of mystery and the promise of hope. I’m currently writing a cozy mystery. The main character has come home after being a war correspondent/photographer for twenty years. She moves in with her aunt on a homestead to seek peace. In the midst of her attempt to settle in, she discovers a prominent member of the community has died. With the help of her aunt and sister, she’s determined to discover what happened. Even through tragedy, hope drives my characters.

What do you think is the goal or mission that drives your creative journey?

My philosophy for writing stems from finding God’s beauty in everyday life, be it through nature, books, a lovely teacup, or a tattered Bible. God has called me to bring hope and joy to people. He has so much to offer to the hurting world, and if my writing brings healing and hope, I’ve done good work.

Any insights you can share with us about how you built up your social media presence?

Building a following on social media challenged me. As an author, I was encouraged to connect with readers before I had anything published. Of course, my family and friends started my fan base. I friended other authors, many also starting out. As an introvert, I struggled with putting myself out in the public eye. The piece of advice I clung to was to start a blog/website and a newsletter. I use an email marketing tool to send my newsletter to my followers. There are several available. Find the one that works for you.

I’ve learned patience in my accumulation of readers. My family and friends signed up right away, then I gathered names and emails through my connections on social media platforms. Once I had a book published, I asked folks to sign up at book signing events. I also used some paid marketing tools to increase newsletter readership.

One question every new writer asks: If I haven’t published a book yet, what do I put in the newsletter? My early ones featured books I recommended, a snippet of my life, my Rosie May Pup Date about our dog who came into our life about the time I started my newsletter. People love animals. I include my flower garden, and some people share recipes. The newsletter isn’t about selling books, it’s about building relationships. Be friendly and personable as you strive to connect with your reader.

I started a blog several years ago. Posting once a week taught me to meet a deadline. The blog followers were also familiar with my writing and more apt to subscribe to my newsletter. Write about what you’re passionate about. I post a devotion every Saturday. I’ve also written about nature and words throughout the years. Don’t be afraid to share what you know that might help someone else.

Contact Info:

• Website: https://www.pennyfrostmcginnis.com/
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/pennyfrostmcginnisauthor/
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/PennyFrostMcGinnisAuthor/
• Other: Newsletter: https://dashboard.mailerlite.com/forms/526944/95682695697270249/share