Today we’d like to introduce you to Mindy McGinnis.
Hi Mindy, so excited to have you on the platform. So, before we get into questions about your work-life, maybe you can bring our readers up to speed on your story and how you got to where you are today.
I began querying – the process of trying to get a literary agent – when I was still in college. Ten years later, and after I’d written five novels, I was able to land an agent and subsequently, a publishing deal with Harper Collins. I have been publishing a book a year consistently since 2010!
Can you talk to us a bit about the challenges and lessons you’ve learned along the way? Looking back, would you say it’s been easy or smooth in retrospect?
Absolutely not. Writing is never an assured thing. I’m entirely supported by freelance income. I don’t have retirement, insurance, or any type of benefits. Also, you never know how many books you will sell or if your publisher will want another one. You are mostly just crossing your fingers a lot and hoping that you can survive.
Alright, so let’s switch gears a bit and talk business. What should we know about your work?
I’m a writer who tackles darker themes for teens. My writing covers everything from rape culture to the opioid crisis to good old-fashioned whodunit murder mysteries, as well as fantasy and historical, contemporary thrillers and fantasy.
I’m known for writing gritty, honest, no punches-pulled novels, no matter what genre I’m writing in.
What sets me apart, and what I’m also particularly proud of, is that I do jump genres. Many authors are pigeon-holed, but I’ve been fortunate in my career that my publisher has allowed me to take chances.
We love surprises, fun facts, and unexpected stories. Is there something you can share that might surprise us?
My novels are dark, but I’m really funny! I write about tough topics, but anyone who comes to any of my presentations leaves laughing. I use humor to even things out, and that can take people by surprise.