Hey everyone,
Ian Tan here, lead editor and project coordinator of UnCensored Ink: A Banned Book Inspired Anthology, set to release this October 29. Here is the UnCensored Ink interview series to introduce you all to the incredible writers, as well as the local bookstores and libraries that gave them safe creative spaces. Hopefully you can put these incredible places on your to-visit list, and feel inspired to support your own local bookstore, library and indie authors.
Today I am with Dana Hawkins from Minnesota. She is a contemporary romance author of sparkly stories. When not searching the country for the perfect cup of piping hot Americano, she spends her time chasing her kids and rewatching ’90s movies. After living for twenty years in Seattle, she recently trekked back to her hometown. She is a huge romance-genre book nerd and borderline obsessed with happy-ever-afters.
1. You’ve written a fine piece for UnCensored Ink: A Banned Book Inspired Anthology. Can you give us a synopsis? How did the idea for this piece come about?
My short piece is about a young trans girl, Emma, who is putting on make-up for the first time and her father’s reaction to seeing his daughter in her authentic self. I wanted to capture the freeing feeling of being yourself and the power a positive parental response can have on a child.
2. Now, we would love to know you more! What do you enjoy doing in your free time, what is your favorite book quote, and how did you get into reading and writing?
In my free time, besides writing, I love taking my kids to the river to skip rocks, read, or rewatch the same shows I’ve watched a million times (Schitt’s Creek, anyone?). I have loved to read since I was a kid but didn’t get into writing until the pandemic. Once I started, I couldn’t stop. Regarding my favorite book quote, there are too many to choose from!
3. Do you have a favorite local library or bookstore? Also can you remember bookstores and libraries from your childhood, if they are not the same as the ones now?
The King County Public Library is great. I recently moved from Seattle, and when I lived there, I went to their Fairwood branch once a week. In Minnesota, I really love St. Cloud Barnes and Noble.
4. Tell us more about this bookstore/library. What do you love most about it?
St. Cloud Barnes and Noble has been hugely supportive of me and even invited me to do a book signing during Pride month. They have my books prominently displayed, and I have had several wonderful interactions with their team.
5. What do you have to say on the importance of sustaining bookstores and libraries?
Books, especially diverse books, are critical. They can save lives, and I am not saying that to be dramatic. When people see themselves in stories, it unlocks something in our souls and helps us feel less isolated. It also introduces readers and humanizes people and cultures we may be unfamiliar with.
6. Do you have any projects that your current and future readers can look forward to?
Yes! I am always working on projects. I will release the third book in my sapphic rom-com series in January. Please stay tuned.
7. Lastly, what platforms can we find you?
danahawkins.com
Instagram @d.hawkinsauthor
Twitter @DHawkinsAuthor
Well, that’s Dana Hawkins from Minnesota, everyone! Stay posted till the next one, as we head on out of the Midwest, on to Oklahoma!
Wild Ink Publishing 