Meet author Annika Perry and her love of writing on “A Better World of Books” #authorinterview #annikaperry #inspirationalbooks

On By Alethea KehasIn A Better World of Books

annika-perryAnnika Perry is an award-winning author, blogger, and book reviewer. She has two books in print and is working on a third. I asked Annika to be a guest for “A Better World of Books” after I learned about the release of her children’s book, Oskar’s Quest. Bette Stevens, a reviewer of the book, had this to say about it, “In this beautifully illustrated children’s book, author Annika Perry captures the importance of caring for others, overcoming fears and making new friends.”

Annika, thank you for being a guest for “A Better World of Books.” Can you tell our readers how you came up with the idea for Oskar’s Quest?

Alethea, I am delighted to be here and thank you so much for inviting me on to your blog. I’m loving your insightful questions and I have enjoyed reflecting over my books, writing and characters.

Initially, Oskar’s Quest was a story I told my son at bedtime many years ago. The story developed over several nights and it became one of his (and my) favourites. For a couple of years, I would tell him the story, embellishing certain elements, removing others. As my son started to read books himself at nighttime, Oskar’s Quest was nearly, but not quite forgotten. Upon the advice of my mother (eternal thanks for everything!), I wrote down the story to save it.

Last year I revisited Oskar’s Quest and after much rewriting and editing I crafted the book as it is today!

What a wonderful gift for your son. Can you tell us who Oskar is and how his “quest” begins?

Initially swept away by the thought of adventures, Oskar joins the other birds to look for dragons but he is overcome by fear and turns for home. In a tumultuous storm, he finds himself on a mysterious island in need of help. Much to his surprise, he volunteers to rescue Maya the golden songbird from the formidable clouds. So, his quest begins …

Sounds like he has quite the adventure ahead! Is Oskar, or any of your other fictional characters, inspired by someone you know? If so, can you tell us what drew you to use real-life characters as models for your fiction? Or, are they all completely made up?

Oskar is all of us! Within each of us resides fear and doubt. That voice, whether quiet and niggling, or loud and controlling! I wanted to portray these emotions through an animal and came up with the idea of Oskar. As Oskar finds his courage, I wanted to empower children to look within themselves to find their inner strength. I always believe we are much stronger than we ever imagine.

In my collection of short stories, The Storyteller Speaks, a couple of stories are loosely based on my grandparent’s lives. Their strength, honesty and love influenced me tremendously and I hope to do them proud in my own life and through my writings. Although both have passed away I feel their love and care around me, at times almost hearing their chuckles, as they comment upon our lives.

The majority of the characters in my writings are made-up, sometimes based around real-life events but the protagonists are creations of my imagination and it is pure magic to bring ‘life’ to these fictional beings.

I love that you aim to empower children through your words. I’m curious why you chose Oskar to be a bird, and not a human or mammal, or even a fish…Why a bird?

I have always been drawn to birds, their sense of freedom in their flight. Birds also symbolise so much which I hold dear; not only freedom, peace, and harmony, but also empowerment, purity, and elegance. These are all qualities I hoped to convey with Oskar whilst reflecting upon his indomitable spirit. We all need to remember we can rise above our adversities in life, in whatever form they may take.

Such wonderful symbolism! In your children’s book animals talk as well as plants. It makes for a delightful read while opening a child’s mind to wonderment. As a child, did you ever find yourself imaging that nature was talking to you? Or perhaps it did…

Alethea, my childhood books made a huge impact on me and I have always enjoyed ones with talking animals and plants. To me, it seemed normal and I absorbed the stories wholeheartedly! Alas, at no stage has any animal or plant talked to me … yet! Or perhaps they have, and I just failed to understand their language! I often had long ‘conversations’ with my guinea pigs and from their noisy squeaks, I imagined their exciting adventures!

That rather sounds like your guinea pigs were doing their best to converse with you. I wonder, what is your favorite character you have ever created, and why?

Oh, this is a tricky one, Alethea! Obviously, Oskar is one of my favourite characters and he will always have a special place in my heart.

In The Storyteller Speaks there are so many varied and wonderful characters, and for me one in particular stands out.

Karin in “The Whiteout Years” is portrayed through the eyes of her husband Carl. She is a person who lived life to the fullest, her spirit at times too large for this world. Outwardly tough, she was vulnerable, and Carl could see through her being to her inner core. Even in death, her love knows no bounds as she reaches out to save the life of Carl

It sounds like Karin is a force of great strength. If you, yourself, could change anything about the world, what would it be?

I would strive for the elimination of hatred through kindness and understanding. The force of hatred from so many in society feels overwhelming at times. I’m sure I’m not the only one who feels as if they’re drowning in all the negativity and anger. The world is the most astonishing place, its very existence miraculous. What a damning indictment upon humankind that so much energy is directed towards evil instead of goodness, warmth, and love towards each other.

Unfortunately, I have begun to despair that much will change. However, I strongly believe in the ‘butterfly’ effect and that every positive action will ripple out into the world and have some significance even if in the minutest of forms.

I too believe that small, positive actions can change the world in unknown ways. Can you give us a hint at future writing projects? What can your readers expect next from you?

I never stop writing and I have a couple of bigger writing projects on the go which I hope to bring to publication this year! One is finishing my novel, Island Girl, which has been delayed as I worked on my other books. I look forward to returning full-time to the book, editing, rewriting, and polishing before it is fully ready.

Meanwhile, my love for short stories is unfettered and I’m currently working on a short story idea which intrigued me as it is based entirely on dialogue. It’s challenging and hugely enjoyable creating a fictional world through speech alone.

My notebooks, both paper and digital ones, are crammed full of ideas for stories, novels and children’s books … I can’t see myself ever stopping this writing lark!

That’s good news for your readers! If you wish to learn more about Annika and her writing, you can find her at: 

Annika’s Blog

Twitter

Annika-Perry-Author.com

Amazon Author Page

Goodreads

Linkedin

Are you an author with a vision for a better world? Do you have a published book of poetry, fiction, or nonfiction that uplifts and empowers readers to create a more positive inner and outer environment? If so, I’d love to hear more about it. On a “Better World of Books,” I interview authors and review books of all genres that offer a vision for a better world. If you think your work is a part of this vision, please contact Alethea. 

87 thoughts on “Meet author Annika Perry and her love of writing on “A Better World of Books” #authorinterview #annikaperry #inspirationalbooks”

  1. Alethea, I’m delighted to be here and thank you again for your kind invitation! 😀 I’ve loved answering your questions which have allowed me to dwell upon the craft of writing, my books and their characters! Hugs xx

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      1. What a wonderful interview Alethea. Annika is such an incredibly talented writer and I loved reading about the background to Oskar’s Quest as well as her love of writing and on life itself. For the record, I used to talk to my guinea pigs too!

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  2. How wonderful to have Annika here as a guest. She is a gifted writer and I look forward to reading more of her work. She answered your thought-provoking questions very well. Eliminating hatred through kindness and understanding is something we should all strive for.

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    2. Darlene, thank you so much for your wonderful and kind comment! 😀 It’s a delight to be here and I loved the questions which had me reflecting not only on the craft of writing, my books but also on humanity itself!

      Wishing to you both a lovely weekend! xx ❤️

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  3. Alethea, it is great to see you having Annika as your guest. I have so enjoyed
    the conversation between you two.
    Annika, your answers are so very full of life and light. Your strong writing is always a delight.
    I do so enjoy Oscar’s Quest, it is a wonderful book for children but also with a deep message to adults.
    One line I picked from your answers: ” I wanted to empower children to look within themselves to find their inner strength. I always believe we are much stronger than we ever imagine.”.

    I love both your books and am patiently waiting for your novel to move to editing.🤗.

    Miriam

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    2. Miriam, bless you for your wonderful comment! 😀 It is a joy to be on Alethea’s blog and I’ve enjoyed answering the questions… I find with interviews I always learn something new about myself! I love how you see life and light in my words – and I try to live accordingly every day. Ahh … lovely to meet such a fan of my books and it means a lot to me that you see and understand the depth within them. Yes, thank you for waiting patiently for the novel! I really appreciate that!

      Have a relaxing and enjoyable weekend, my friend! xx ❤️

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  4. Pingback: Alethea Kehas interviews Annika Perry on “A Better World of Books” #authorinterview | Sue Vincent's Daily Echo

    2. Robbie, bless! 😀 How wonderful that you’ve bought ‘Oskar’s Quest’ and look forward to reading your review. Thank you so much! ❤️ I’ve loved being here on Alethea’s blog and many thanks for sharing! Have a great rest of Sunday! hugs xx

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  6. A wonderful interview, Alethea and Annika. After all these years of following Annika, there are still new things to learn about her and her books. I loved A Storyteller Speaks, and it was fun to hear about the origins of Oskar. It sounds like the perfect amount of danger for a child and, of course, courage and kindness prevail! And the comment about the butterfly effect that ripples from every act of kindness is one I ascribe to too. I’m not surprised that this is Annika’s approach to life. ❤

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    2. Bless! 😀 Diana, I’m glad the interviews reveal something new each time … and so happy you enjoyed learning a bit more about me Thank you so much for your kind comments about my books. The hope of the butterfly effect is what keeps me going on the days of the darkest news. I think there is much on which we are kindred spirits! ❤️

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  7. Reblogged this on Annika Perry's Writing Blog and commented:
    I was delighted recently when Alethea asked me for an interview as part of her fabulous series “A Better World of Books”. Here she wants to celebrate authors who inspire “hope, joy, positivity, or a sense of empowerment” through their books! Wow! I am honoured to take part.

    Learn about the origins of my children’s book “Oskar’s Quest”, my favourite fictional creation and exactly how does this all fits in with talking to guinea pigs!

    Click on the link to read the whole interview! Enjoy!

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  8. What a great interview Alethea and Annika. I always love to learn more about one of my favorite people. I loved Oskar’s Quest! I’ve revisited the book several times and now it’s on display on our coffee table. Thanks for hosting, Alethea!

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  10. Nice to meet you Alethea. Thank you for featuring Annika on this series.

    Annika’s joy and love of writing and books is apparent on her blog and especially in “Oskar’s Quest.” Annika has a gift for writing up, not down to children. Immediate goosebumps when I read how “Oskar is all of us!” Now I understand one of the reasons my granddaughter and I love reading this book!

    I agree how every positive action will ripple out into the world. I am also happy Annika will share more of her writing and especially, more of herself! I loved learning more about you, Annika!💕

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    2. Erica, bless you! 😀 Your comment has me beaming away and will stay with me! I love how my words gave you goosebumps and that you feel exactly that way about ‘Oskar’s Quest’ – that he is all of us! When I’m answering interviews like this an outsider might think I’m a bit odd, sitting with the questions in front of me, muttering away to myself – until I find enlightenment how best to answer the question!

      It’s been a delight to share more of myself here on Alethea’s series … and I’m so glad you’ve enjoyed learning more about me and my thoughts! Thank you so much for your lovely comment about my writing / books … and I will make sure to share much more!

      Wishing you a wonderful day, my friend! hugs xx ❤️

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      1. You do have an “it” factor, Annika, and deserve all the good that comes your way. 💕 I know you are a very busy lady with all of your writing projects. I wanted to mention how I learned from one of Pamela Wight’s posts how reviews make a difference. Since reading her post, I have begun adding reviews to Amazon.ca and Goodreads. My quick question is whether reviews carry over to other parts of our planet or only show up on Canadian sites? Should I be adding reviews to other continents? Only if you have a quick answer for me, Annika. I don’t want to take up much of your time. I think Pamela is on her vacation right now. Not an urgent question.🙂

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      2. Erica, first, a huge thank you! ❤️ I’m tear-eyed having just read your amazing review on a amazon in Canada! Wow! Big hugs!

        You ask a good question about reviews on Amazon. Previously you used to be able to share them on other amazon sites, such as US and U.K. but I think this is now not possible. Alas! Having said that only recently someone from America shared their review of my other book on amazon U.K., much to my surprise. If you have the time, please do give it a go and see what happens. I appreciate all your effort and Pam is right, reviews are invaluable and I hadn’t realised until I started blogging. Xx

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      3. I am copy/pasting part of a page Amazon.UK. Who can write a review?
        To write a Customer Review, you must have spent at least £40 on Amazon.co.uk. Prime subscriptions and promotional discounts don’t qualify towards the £40 minimum. After you meet this requirement, you’ll be able to review any product on Amazon.co.uk regardless of where you purchased that product. We don’t permit reviews of the same product from customers in the same household.

        I initially tried to find somewhere on Amazon.ca where I could click as International review. No luck. Therefore, only shows on Canadian site. The info only showed an ebook and I could not click anywhere as a hard copy (not that this really matters). All of this is interesting to me, Annika. I am always curious and like learning new things. If you find out new info let me know. Amazon.com (U.S.) may work differently than Amazon.ca Hope you have a great week! 💕

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      4. Erica, you are a natural researcher! 😀Thank you so much for this invaluable information. Amazon do drive me slightly crazy at times … once removing all the reviews I’d ever written, including ones for household items, toys etc. It took me over a couple of weeks to sort it all out and in the process discovered this has happened to a lot of other people but their reviews were never restored!

        I appreciate your review so much and how you’ve shared it on Amazon in Canada and Goodreads. I know it’s there and and people from your country will see it – and from your words alone I would buy the book instantly! I will be sharing your review on my blog along with the photos of Abby in the beginning of March … can’t wait!

        BTW, for some reason, certain books shows the reviews at the bottom from the UK on US site and vice versa but not always. It seems to be hit and miss.

        With much love, xx ❤️

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      5. Annika, I have learned a great deal since I began my blog and I am still on a huge learning curve. I have only recently started adding reviews. Friends and I in real life are always sharing favourite books with each other. This is an opportunity for us to continue sharing with more readers.

        Thank you for getting back to me. I look forward to staying connected and reading more of your beautiful writing.xx💕

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  11. It’s nice to know more about you and your ideas Annika, loved your “butterfly effect”…what an expression! Your eclectic style has always captured my attention and it shines through this interview too. Thanks for sharing it ladies. Wishing you great success with your delayed venture.

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  12. I enjoyed reading this interview, Alethea and Annika. I have A Storyteller Speak and I need to get Oskar’s Quest. I love how Annika developed Oskar’s story over the years of reading this bedtime story to her son, with changing elements when reading it again and again. It shows her creativity. Oskar’s kindness to help when he himself was in trouble inspires children to be positive. It’s so powerful to children and adults alike.

    Thank you again for this inspiring interview!

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    2. Miriam, I’m cheering as I read your answer – you sum up Oskar’s Quest perfectly, reaching into its heart! 😀 Thank you so much for getting the book and enjoy when you have a chance to read it. I still can’t quite believe that is out for adults to share with children around the world, helping others to find courage whilst being captivated by an exciting story! Not only did I continually change the story as I was telling it when I revisited it for publication I found myself editing it heavily and cutting the word length by half! Tough but it made all the difference!

      Thank you so much for all your wonderful support, Miriam! Happy Reading!

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      1. Hi Annika, I had my students write at least three times a week because I think writing cultivates creativity. Both my writing course and the books on writing emphasis on making the writing lean. One author in my writing critique group said her editor cut one-third of her manuscript. I’m so glad to hear the process of your reading and writing Oskard’s Quest.

        Cheers to you, Annika!

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  14. Thank you for sharing more of yourself here, Annika. Very fun and interesting to learn how you came to create your characters and write their stories.

    Thank you, Alethea, for featuring Annika.

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  15. What a lovely interview with Annika. I so agree with her on trying to eliminate the hatred in the world through kindness. And I really enjoyed reading about how Oskar came into being and look forward to reading her novel and future short stories.

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    2. Mary, warmest thanks for your lovely comment and constant support! 😀 I am so happy you look forward to reading my novel … that means a lot!

      With so much darkness in the world, it is easy to almost give up … we can strive to improve it through kindness – I am not in the least surprised you feel the same, Mary! You have seen so much with your work and travels, it beggars belief.

      Hope the sun is with you in Scotland today … heavenly here! xx

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  16. “However, I strongly believe in the ‘butterfly’ effect and that every positive action will ripple out into the world and have some significance even if in the minutest of forms.” Me too. In fact, I believe it is the small positive actions that make all the difference, even on the darkest of nights. –Curt

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      1. And the darker it gets, the more important that hope becomes! In my life, Annika, I’ve been luck to be involved in a number of events where a small group of people have made a significant difference, even in the face of massive opposition. I know it can be done. –Curt

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  17. Thank you to you Alethea for this wonderful interview. Oskar’s Quest sounds like a delightful, and also an important book with its aim to empower children. Annika’s writing touch hearts, and the themes she explores in her works are always of interest to me. That’s why I’m happy to hear she has a couple of bigger writing projects lined up. Thanks to you too, Annika for the gift of words. ❤

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    2. Teagan, I agree, it is wonderful how Alethea is embracing and celebrating the theme of empowerment through this series … and “Oskar’s Quest” fitted perfectly, I feel! So glad you enjoyed learning more about me as a writer … the questions were thought provoking!

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    1. Jacquie, it is easy to surrender to the darkness but with united positive spirit and kindness I really think we make a difference… it is wonderful to know so many feel the same! So glad you enjoyed learning a bit more about me and heartening how many fans “Oskar’s Quest” has garnered!

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  21. What a lovely interview here Alethea, And I was delighted to learn more from Annika just how this wonderful sounding Story of Oskar’s Quest began its journey. Story telling is a wonderful art and there is no greater gift that when you inspire young children’s imagination. The cover of the book itself is delightful, that would just want a child to reach out and pick it up to read.

    I hope Annika you never ever do give up ” This Writing Lark”, you have obviously found your vocation and its wonderful to see how from your first book you are now on your third…

    Its also very inspiring to read your words to Alethea in that Oskar’s determination and spirit encourages us to “….. remember we can rise above our adversities in life, in whatever form they may take.”… I so agree with you Annika..

    Loved your interview here Annika.. Thank you Alethea for sharing, it was nice to hope over to your blog and say hello

    Have a wonderful February both of you… Much Love.. Sue ❤

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    2. Sue, bless your for your wonderful comment! ❤️ It is so in depth and thoughtful I would like to sit down and chat down about them, life, its joys & adversities! Instead know how much your warmth, care and understanding means to me, both of my books and my writing. I feel honoured and lucky to carry on the gift of storytelling to children, to capture their imagination and let them fly with strength and love into their own lives! I trust I will always write, if it no longer gives me joy or is fulfilling I would stop but I can’t imagine that scenario.

      Wishing you a beautiful February… what a heavenly start with this sunny day! Spring is tantalisingly close! Love & Hugs xx🌸🦋

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  22. This was such a joy to read! 🙂 Many thanks, Annika and Alethea for sharing.
    Annika, we have so much in common. It’s always a pleasure learning more about you.
    It’s lovely to meet you, Alethea. Delighted to be a new follower of your inspirational blog. Cheers to you both! 🙂

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    2. Natalie, thank you so much for your lovely comment and I love meeting a kindred spirit! ❤️ From all our comments across our posts I am not in the least surprised we have so much in common and it is heartwarming to meet like-minded people.

      Enjoy Alethea’s blog … she is truly inspirational and wonderfully supportive of us all!

      Happy Weekend to you both! 😀🌺

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  24. Hi Alethea and Annika – great to see you here, Annika and learn more about Oskar’s Quest. Overcoming fear and doubt is something we can all relate to. I’ve only more recently beome interested in nature and especially birds. Nature’s role in our lives is greater than many acknowledge.

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    2. Barbara, thank you so much for your lovely comment! 😀 It is amazing that a book, originally told to my son, to help him overcome his fears, to entertain him, is now out there for so many others to read, enjoy and give some courage! I can’t quite believe it!

      The healing power of nature is incredible, a blessing in our lives and it’s central in my and so many lives! I’m glad it is featuring more in your life too! 🌺

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  25. Mike

    A very interesting and enlightening interview. Some very good questions and equally informative answers. I particularly liked the idea of talking guinea pigs, and will never look at them in the same way again!.
    Well done both of you.

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    2. Haha!😀 I’m smiling that you’re taken with the idea of my talking guinea pig … maybe that should be my next book! Coincidentally, sorting through my photo albums I came across the one I made when I was young and there were pages of the guinea pig! I do appreciate my mother paying for the developing cost of these!

      So glad you enjoyed the interview, Mike and found it enlightening! 😀

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  26. Great feature, Annika and Alethea. I’m always intrigued by the creative process, and I love stories that seem to grow organically through time. Thanks for sharing it and good luck with all your future projects.

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    2. Olga, thank you so much for your great and reflective comment! 😀 I too love the organic nature of writing – although for a little while wondered if people would feel it was ‘cheating’ to publish a story initially created much earlier. Like so much art, it has gone through so many revisions to the final book which is to some extent a new creation. Thank you for your best wishes … exciting times! xx

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  28. Thank you Alethea for your insightful interview of Annika Perry. Annika comes across as such a genuine and worthy human being. I also believe in the ‘Butterfly’ effect. Our precious planet and its inhabitants need all the love and kindness they can harvest. Must read “Oskar’s Quest!.” Hugs x

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