Author Interview: Deena Goldstein

How did you come up with the title for your book?

The title of my book, OK, Little Bird came about from an experience I had with my father – the story, which is an important one to the narrative, is actually a chapter in the book. Without spoilers, I will tell you, not only was it the hardest chapter to write, but an incredibly impactful moment in my life.

When did you write your first book and how old were you?

I’ve always love writing and expressed myself through the writing of poetry, short stories, even greeting card captions and children’s books. I wrote my first children’s book when I was about 12-years old – illustrated it as well. I still have it and hope to one day publish and share with young readers.

What part of the book was the most fun to write?

OK, Little Bird is a memoir, so capturing my father’s irreverent and often unfiltered sense of humor was the most important and hardest to write. His “one liners” for which there are oodles in the book, were easy to conjure as I lived with them my entire life, but sharing them in a way where the reader not only got the humor, but the tone they were delivered in was crucial for authenticity and for them to be as funny on paper as they were in person.

How would you describe OK, Little Bird to a reader who might be interested in reading?

OK, Little Bird is a fast paced, “quick read” – irreverent, funny and truly inspiring story of an unforgettable father-daughter journey. Told through voicemails, letters, family dinners, unfiltered commentaries and lots of love. Readers take a bouncy ride from laughter to tears as they fly with Little Bird as she learns her father is not so invincible. Love, loss, grief and the gift of humor that healed.

Are you planning on writing another book?

I have a new project in the works, but am taking my time as the process is truly amazing and I’m just coming off the release of the book and all that’s involved.

Is writing your main hobby/interest?

I love writing – and I’ve been a multimedia artist for many years. I work in acrylics, vintage, collage, etc and have exhibited and sold my artwork through solo and collective exhibitions as well as online (www.deenasart.com). I also have had a side business for several years, Pop Art Pets – custom pet art. I create pop art from pet photos – they are fun, colorful and no two are the same – the final product is on canvas and they have been a great joy to create – I’ve worked with a lot of local charities and organizations (Phoenix Zoo, PAC911, Horses Help, etc.) in providing pop art donations for their raffles and events.

Do you provide talks to book clubs or groups? I love engaging with readers – it’s simply the best. Not only to share in depth details about my writing process and the characters in the story. I’ve spoken to book clubs, grief groups, women’s groups etc. both in person and virtually. Zoom has been fabulous as it allows me to engage anywhere in the world. Recently I spoke to a group in Ireland.

What are the main takeaways from OK, Little Bird?

Although this is my story , it is the universal story of love, loss, grief and how we navigates those waters. Knowing that you can and will find a way to be ok, that shying away from challenge and what is painful or difficult keeps you from feeling. The pain we experience in loss is simply a mirror of the depth of love we felt in life and in the relationship with that special someone. I utilized the gift of humor from my father to heal and it was and still is an incredibly powerful coping tool. It’s ok to find humor in the sad or difficult, it’s a release of sorts. Another takeaway, remember gems from those we loved dearly, places they took us, times we had tea, etc….taking those in and carrying those with us. For those that still have that special someone, embracing and enjoying them to the fullest.

What are some of your favorite things in life?

That’s an easy one – life! I’m perpetually grateful for the gift of life and all that it brings. I love my husband, daughter, family with all my heart. My ability to paint on a fresh, white canvas, to sit by a beach and of course, eat chocolate chip cookies (my fav!). Getting joy from the simplest pleasures is my favorite thing in life! Including snuggling with my pup!

What would you tell aspiring writers and where can readers find OK, Little Bird?

To aspiring writers I would say – writing is about sharing your story, a story and the inspiration that fuels your desire to share. If you are inspired, the writing will come. OK, Little Bird is available on Amazon (oklittlebird.com) Barnes & Noble, Bookbaby.com and a variety of booksellers nationwide.

oklittlebird.com
www.deenasart.com

Leave a Reply