Author Q&A: Vera Harris

Today we’re interviewing children’s author Vera Harris.

Harris, called “Sister” by her family, enjoys spending time with her family, traveling, reading, listening to various types of music, and working in her church.

Harris is a Bronze Star recipient. After retiring from the U.S. Army, a deployment that included eighteen months in Iraq, she returned to Texas and was inspired by her grandson to write her first children's book. 

Harris is a 2019 Finalist for Best Book Cover for Indie Author Legacy Award (IALA). 

SADYE: How did you come to see yourself as a writer, and what inspired you to seek publication?

VERA: Before I retired from the U.S. Army, I started to write about my experiences and was approached by people that I had a story to tell and that I should write a book about those experiences. 

Well, I did write the manuscript and will get that book in print soon; however, my life took a different turn after retirement. 

My grandson came along, and he struggled with reading.

I did not want him to be labeled a “lazy or bad kid” in school, so I started to write children’s books that would help other kids like him to embrace and gain the confidence to read, and enjoy the art of reading. 

Fast forward, he is reading great now, and because of his inspiration, I decided to seek publication and, to this date, have written and published five books.

SADYE: Tell us something about your writing process that’s unusual or that you haven’t revealed before.

VERA: My writing process always begins in the morning. I wake up early and grab a cup or two of coffee and head to my computer. 

I keep journals around the house and near my nightstand so when a thought or inspiration pops into my head I write those thoughts down and begin writing. 

When I get stuck, I go for a morning walk, and with the sounds of nature, my thoughts become clearer so when I do return back to the computer, I can tap and tap away.

SADYE: What have been the most surprising, rewarding, and challenging parts of your writing career?

VERA: The most surprising parts of my career was when my book Monica and Michelle Travel the World was selected as a Book Cover Finalist for the Indie Author Legacy Award 2019. 

I was notified by a fellow author while I was on a cruise — I didn't even know of those results. 

I attended the ceremony in Baltimore, Maryland, and had a great time meeting so many wonderful authors. 

Even though I did not win, the experience is something I will hold dearly and use as motivation for years to come.

The most challenging part of my writing career is following sound training and advice to become a better author. 

There are so many distractions and people that may try to discourage you; however, I have learned to stay on track, with or without their approval.

SADYE: What has been the most touching or memorable piece of reader feedback you’ve received?

VERA: A young reader came to me and said, “Hi, you wrote my book! I got your book, you wrote my book,” and whenever I see her she hugs me and says, “I got your book, I got your book!” 

My heart melts, and I hug her back. The look on her face is all I need to continue this journey.

SADYE: What message or theme would you like readers to take away from your work?

VERA: I would like readers to take away the message that I hope all of my books convey: they can read; they will enjoy reading; their minds will thank them later for reading. 

My intent is that my books will give them the confidence to move to chapter books, and with the confidence gained from reading my books, the readers will become leaders in their schools, community, and church.

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Learn more about Vera Harris on her website, where her books can also be purchased; like her on Facebook; and follow her on Twitter and Instagram.
 
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