Interview with Janice Kaplan
Q: You have so many careers on your resume: author, editor, television producer, etc. How do you handle all the variety and stress that comes with those positions?
I’ve always loved doing many things–it keeps life exciting. But whether I’m editing a major magazine, producing a TV show, or writing a novel, the secret is telling stories that will interest and excite people. I also remind myself regularly that life has many cycles–you can do everything, just not all at once. Once or twice I’ve written a novel while I also had a full-time job, but I don’t recommend it. Usually when I’m working on a book, I take six months or a year and write full-time. Then I’m ready to throw myself back into the media fray.
Q: How were you able to break into the industry?
I began writing magazine articles while I was still in college, and wrote my first book, called WOMEN AND SPORTS, the year I graduated. It’s the only non-fiction book I ever wrote. The next two books were YA novels. For me, they were a great training ground for learning how to put character and plot together.
Q: Did you always know you wanted to write women’s novels?
I love writing funny, spirited books that women (or anyone) can enjoy. I think my books can also be inspiring for women, helping them realize the many directions their lives can take. When my co-author and I wrote “The Botox Diaries,” reviewers marveled that our characters, who were in their 40s (aged!) were feisty and fun and liked sex. Before that, most chick lit stopped once the characters got married. We wanted to show how much fun life can be ten or more years after.
Q: Where do you get your ideas for your books?
I often start with a character and try to imagine her life. With “Looks to Die For,” my first mystery, I started with a question: how would a loving wife respond if her husband were accused of murder? Can you keep believing in the man you love when everyone else thinks he’s guilty? I’ve had many great experiences in my life, and I do call on those for nuggets of ideas. Then they get reshaped and changed. I think of my characters as my alter egos–doing everything I wouldn’t dare!
Q: I read that you are often a speaker for women’s issues. What is one issue that you feel especially passionate about?
I want women to know how many doors are open to them at every age and every stage. There’s always a next act in your life. You just the need the courage to go for it.
Q: How do you spend your free time?
I love being with my family–my husband and two wonderful sons. I like to travel and be outdoors–hiking is a favorite activity for our whole family. We’re lucky to live in New York, so we go to theater and music events and museums. And of course, there are always four or five books by my bed.
Q: Are you currently working on any novels?
I’ve just started a new one and it’s such fun to be writing again!
Q: What is your favorite part about writing?
Many writers say they like having a book finished, but I love the process of writing. I like thinking about my characters as I fall asleep at night, or walking down the street and envisioning what the next scene will be. You live with your characters while you’re writing a novel, and they become very real. That’s why my characters are usually fun and funny–they have to keep me entertained.
Q: What advice would you give to someone who has interests in writing?
Write! People often tell me about the great book they have in their head. Well, if it’s in your head, it’s not a book. Sit down and struggle with it. Write and rewrite. And then rewrite some more. When I’m writing full time, I start every day by revising what I wrote the day before, and then moving forward. I think it gets better every time. And the surprise: I’m not usually adding words, I’m taking them out to make the story faster, stronger, and a better read.
Q: What is or would be your favorite place to travel?
I’m easy to please in travel. I love visiting big cities–Paris, Rome, Venice, Florence, London. And I’ve been enthralled by remoter spots, like Guatemala and Belize and the Corcovado region of Costa Rica. My husband and I spent a week recently hiking in the Dolomites (the Italian Alps), and it was the perfect blend of gorgeous scenery, vigorous activity, and fabulous food. I wouldn’t be surprised if it appears in one of my books soon!
