Who are you?
My name is Alysson Foti Bourque. My friends and colleagues call me Aly. I am a licensed elementary education educator, attorney, publicist, co-founder of Expound Publicity, and bestselling author of The Alycat Series. I live in Louisiana with my lovely family, a corgi named Winnie, and a British shorthair cat named Tiger.
What do you write?
The Alycat Series is built on stories that inspire readers to rely on friendships, imagination, and creativity to help with problem-solving. Whether they are scared, sad, or confused about a situation, readers can use these books as tools to overcome obstacles with encouragement from friends and digging deep to find the courage within. Conquering worry one step at a time, one day at a time, and with encouragement from friends, will help you brave new things.
Readers will also find various topics within the book to help them feel included or spark an interest. Themes of music, friendship, crafting, sports, baking, and sleepovers are all within the series to encourage our youth to create their own happiness, work hard, persevere, and dream big.
After nearly eight years of practicing law, I wanted something more out of a career. Something I was truly passionate about and that would leave a legacy. So, I took a temporary retirement to spend more time with my family and find a different path that would allow me to help others, inspire our youth, and feel like I was contributing to the greater good.
One evening during my temporary retirement, my children asked for more books for their overflowing bookshelf as they had read every single book. I looked at the books on the shelf and the floor and simply told them I could write them a story for the next night. I always loved to write and dream up stories—however, time never allowed me to put them on paper. They jumped for joy and thought that it was a great idea. Because of their excitement and belief in me, I had the courage to believe in myself. We tucked them, and I went straight to my office, took out a piece of paper, and started to write. The story just unfolded as I channeled my childhood and my own children’s experiences.
One book in 2016 has now turned into eight books in a series…soon to be going on 9!
Where do you write?
My writing usually takes place outside, where there is sunshine, birds chirping, and positive, simple vibes. I write on a piece of paper that ends up being filled with scratch-outs, doodles, arrows, and sometimes anything but words. Once the story starts on paper, I can see it unfold in my imagination as if I’m reading the physical book already. Once I write the very last sentence, I type it up on my computer and submit it to my publisher.
When do you write?
I typically release one book per year in the series, so my writing schedule is pretty set. Within a calendar year, I will write for 1-2 months, then work on book production and illustrative design for 2-3 months. Once the book goes to the printer, it is time to start marketing and promoting the book. The day after one of my book releases, I start the writing process all over again.
Why do you write?
I write to provide resources and tools for readers to problem-solve effectively and to give our youth fun and entertaining reads. I want a child to say I’ve had a tantrum like that before and laugh, or I have had to overcome a similar issue and feel like they are not alone. My goal is to incorporate my experiences in teaching and law in the books so that readers can conquer any difficulties they may face.
How do you overcome writer's block?
The only time I have had writer’s block was when I started writing Alycat stories outside of the week-based series. When this happens, I will usually channel my memories of my time in the classroom or courtroom when a problematic situation occurred and think, "What is the takeaway from that situation?", "How should I have handled that better?" or "Was I or the people involved being a good role model for our youth?"
Bonus: What do you enjoy doing when not writing?
When I am not writing, I enjoy being a part of other author’s book journeys and helping them get their stories out in the world. My co-owner, Lori Orlinsky, and I take pride in helping authors gain exposure and marketability with our company, Expound Publicity.
When I am not working, I can be found cheering on my kids at school or at a game, gardening, cooking, or reading a good romance novel. And I absolutely enjoy a great dinner night with my husband.
My thanks to Alysson Foti Bourque for today's interview.