Author's Interview with E. Z. Grace

First, before we move forward with our Author's Interview, I would like to start with an introduction.

1. Could you please introduce yourself to us?

Hi everyone, I'm E. Z. Grace! I happily reside in St. Louis, MO. Between my studies and career, I've been involved in the education system my entire life—long enough to know how important a book like this will be for young adults. When I'm not focused on making the world a better place, you'll find me snuggled up with my pack of rescue animals, teaching myself new DIY home projects, or spending time with my loved ones. No matter what I do, I make it a point to absorb, learn, and grow as much as possible!

 

2. Congratulations on your book. So what inspired you to write this book?

I've been teaching high schoolers for 15 years now, and the lack of real-world knowledge graduates go out into the world with is extremely concerning, to say the least! Who is to blame for this? Schools, family, or community, perhaps? There is no clear answer, so I decided to do something about it. I wrote a book!

3. What is the book all about?

The Ayeee to Z Adulting Guide: How to Navigate Adulthood Like a Boss!, will be officially released on November 12th, 2024. It is an immersive guide that will help the reader make the most of their adulting journey and find their path to happiness, whatever that may be. It’s packed with information to help readers make educated decisions, ultimately allowing them to self-advocate to a new level. The topics range from personal finance to mental healthcare and everything in between. While the topics vary widely, they all have one thing in common: 

They were carefully chosen by the target audience, young adults (aka my students and their peers). The information is presented equitably, making it relevant no matter the reader’s background. Nothing on the market compares in format, content variety, and page count. It's built to change lives nationwide!

4. Why did you choose this genre for your book?

As a teacher and a human trying to leave a positive impact, there was only one genre that made sense, nonfiction self-help!

5. How much time did it take to complete this book?

This book has been a work in progress for about 3 years now. It started with an "adulting 101" packet I made as a gift for my senior students, and that was a big hit. My students asked me to teach them about various topics, and the note packet became a book!

6. What makes your Book Special?

There is so much about this book that makes it special! I combined my 15 years of teaching, my love of writing, and my strong desire to help my students succeed. That combination produced a book that uniquely stands apart.

7. When is your second book coming?

I have several ideas for new books if this one is successful. I am a teacher and I am self-publishing this book, needless to say, my budget is limited. If I can recoup the money I invested in this project then I will happily begin working on my second. It will be another book focused on making positive impacts in the lives of its readers.

8. While writing did you get any writer's block? What tip will you give others who are facing writer's block?

This book is filled with a huge variety of topics that were all suggested by my students. In all honesty, some of them I wasn't too familiar with myself and required hours of research and outreach to industry professionals to make sure I was presenting the correct information. Taking that research and turning it into an easy-to-follow format was my biggest source of writer's block I had throughout this process. When I got stuck I was fortunate enough to have my students offering their advice on which formats help them learn the best.

9. What are your other hobbies besides being a talented author?

I enjoy tapping into my creative side by making custom sculpture art, I'm an avid rockhound, a fan of cooking new dishes, and the proud mother of a pack of rescue animals. If I'm not in the classroom or writing, I am likely doing one of the above!

10. Last but not the least, How did you feel, while giving this interview?

I feel extremely excited! This was the very first professional review I received, and you captured the intent of this book and the vision I had while writing it perfectly. I won't lie, I teared up when I first read your words. I just cannot wait for it to be published and out there helping people!

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