Interview: Jenny Moss - Author of Winnie's War

Hey there readers! Got another fun interview for ya today. So without delay here's Jenny Moss.

Tell us a little about yourself.

As far back as I can remember, I wanted to be a writer. I took detours: one long road to and through aerospace engineering. Now I live in Houston and write. :)

What got you started writing? What brought you to YA?

My first published book is middle grade. But my 2010 release is a YA fantasy. I started writing that one first. I love writing for teens - it's such an amazing time of life. It's fun to go back and explore it again, looking through the eyes of my protagonists.

Tell us about your most recent/ upcoming release?

My debut, WINNIE'S WAR, was released by Walker Books for Young Readers in February. It follows the fears of a twelve-year-old girl living in a small town during the 1918 influenza epidemic.

Do you plot out in advance, or just start writing and see where things go from there?

Both. Once I begin writing that first scene, though, I start working out the plot in my head even when I'm not writing.

Many authors have told me their characters talk to them, and sometimes even have different ideas of where the story should go than the author. Do you hear your characters?

I'm always reluctant to admit my characters talk to me. :) But they do.

Who is your favorite character (of your own)?

Oh, wow, great question! It changes. From WW, I'm very fond of Miranda and Mr. Levy.

What hobbies do you have when you're not writing?

Reading, walking, watching movies. I love to travel. Love. It.

If you had not become a writer what would you have done instead?

I was an engineer for a long time. Writing is what I want to do.

Where can readers find you online?

Several places:

www.jenny-moss.com
http://jenny-moss.livejournal.com/
I'm also on Twitter & Facebook.

Your turn. What question do you have for readers of Want My YA?

What types of YA books do you enjoy the most and want to see more of on the shelves?

Thanks so much Jenny for the great answers! :) And thanks to all the wonderful readers who make this blog so fun.

If you're a YA author and you're interested in being interviewed for Want My YA's Monday interview feature be sure to send an email to wantmyya at yahoo dot com.