First Can You Tell Us A Little Bit About Yourself?
I am a self-published author of narrative non-fiction and semi-fiction books. I grew up in Munster, Indiana, and currently work in a sales role based out of Chicago, Illinois. I started writing at an early age and graduated from Indiana University with a dual Bachelor’s Degree in Economics and Communication & Culture. I then went on to earn a Master’s in Business Administration from the Kelley School of Business at Indiana University. I have a passion for learning, teaching, and writing as well as international travel in my spare time. This book is my first piece of published work. I have a passion to share the knowledge of economics with the world, and I hope to publish my second book by the end of this year.
RBTL:
When did you first start writing Economics: A Simple Twist On Normalcy, and when did you finish it?
Kersten:
I started writing economics: a simple twist on normalcy in June 2011, and I finished the writing process in December 2011. I had an excellent team of people to help me including my editor, Autumn Conley, and outstanding designer, Lauren M. Harrington. I would never have been able to make this book possible without their help. They worked tirelessly (along side me) to get this book published on March 5, 2012. Although it's complete, I'm always jotting down notes for the next edition of the book.
RBTL:
How did you choose the topic to write?
Kersten:
Economics is a fantastic subject that is very relevant in society today. With a recessionary climate, I wanted to educate people on different ways to consider their everyday lives and activities. After I finished my master's degree, I knew that I needed to share some of the information that I learned and the examples that I came across.
RBTL:
Do you have a day job as well?
Kersten:
Yes, I sure do. I am a private label toaster pastry and granola bar salesperson for the western half of the country. I get to fly around different parts of the west coast to visit with customers and develop products with them in the cereal category. My job is fantastic - it keeps me both busy and challenged. Plus, I get to sell delicious food to people who love to eat.
RBTL:
Do you work with an outline or just write?
Kersten:
Typically, I just write, but there are constant revisions. I usually keep a "notes" page separate from the working document that constitutes the book. For this book, I moved chapters, sections, sentences, and words around many times. It's a constant rearranging process for me. I wanted to make sure it flowed correctly.
RBTL:
What is the best advice anyone has ever given to you?
Kersten:
You can never be too humble. Humility is one of the greatest assets that my parents taught me growing up. No matter what successes or defeats I have, I try to remain level-headed and humble throughout the process. You really never know who you will meet, what they will teach you, or how they will influence your life.
RBTL:
What advice would you give aspiring new authors?
Kersten:
Interview a published author and ask them as many questions that you can think of. People that have done this process will know the highlights and the issues with the entire thing. They may be able to provide insight for you that isn't written in any book or "how to" guide. Use this person as a mentor as well. People love to talk about their accomplishments and teach others. Let them do that, and be a willing student.
RBTL:
What are your views on self-publishing versus traditional publishing?
Kersten:
I think everyone should try to self-publish at least once. This has been one of the hardest and one of the most rewarding experiences I've ever had. I get to be involved in every aspect of the book's progress. It is a lot of work, but it is more than worth the effort and time.
RBTL:
Any tips for new writers hoping to write non-fiction?
Kersten:
1. Never give up.
2. Challenge yourself.
3. Edit, edit, edit, and edit again.
4. Reach out to other non-fiction authors and ask questions. People are willing to help.
5. Write about a subject you enjoy and that you are passionate about.
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