Inside The Indie Author with Donna Neumann

Have you ever considered writing under a pseudonym, and why or why not?

Yes! I’m working on a romance novel, and if I publish it, I’ll use a pseudonym. As a teacher, it just feels easier to keep that world separate.

What is your “go-to” method for working through or around writer’s block?

Doodling. There’s something about putting pen to paper—making random lines, connecting shapes, and adding different patterns—that helps me reset. It may seem like busy work, but it gives my brain the space to catch up, process ideas, and work through whatever problem I’m facing.

From your perspective, what are the most important elements of good writing?

Books serve as both mirrors and windows, so the most important element is crafting a story that allows readers to see themselves while also gaining insight into experiences different from their own.

What comes first – the location, the plot, or the characters – and why?

The plot. I start with the story idea first and then build the characters/setting around it. Once I have a strong storyline, the details just fall into place.

What are your least favorite and most favorite things about publishing a book?

My favorite part of publishing a book is the formatting, watching as the illustrations and text come together on each page. My least favorite part is waiting. Waiting for the illustrations, waiting for the books to print, waiting to see the final product in hand, and waiting for feedback from my readers can be the hardest part of the process.

What is a significant way your book changed from the first to the final draft?

 When I first write each of Annie’s stories, they are deeply personal, often reflecting my own childhood experiences, which carries a heavier emotional tone that feels more like a memoir of a difficult childhood experience rather than a children’s book. During revisions, I work to pull back some of those emotions, keeping the heart of the story but also ensuring it remains engaging, age-appropriate, and uplifting.

What was the inspiration for your most recent book?

Last summer, while searching for something in the closet, I came across a box of my mom’s keepsakes—things she had cherished over the years. When she passed, the box was passed down to me, and I had tucked it away for safekeeping. It had been a while since I’d looked through it, but I had been missing her a lot lately, so I sat down and opened it.

Right on top was a card I had made for her in 4th grade, one that had been entered into a Mother’s Day card contest. The drawing wasn’t great, but the words inside were surprisingly poetic for a fourth grader. Of all the things she could have kept, she chose a simple handmade card. That was my mom. She was not always the most outwardly emotional person, but she held on to the little things that meant the most to her.

As I sat there crying, missing her, a story began forming in my mind. I quickly grabbed my notebook and started writing. It was never meant to be a book, it was just me, grieving my mom. But as the story unfolded, my children encouraged me to publish it. And now, here I am, working on book four.

What is a “darling” you’ve killed in a book that you’d like to resurrect in a future book?

There is the why of my stories. I have added bits in but the editor says that it would upset the parents. I am going to write a young adult version and add that stuff back in.

Where are your most productive writing spaces, and what elements are important about that space to keep you focused on writing?

For me, it’s not about a physical space, it’s mental. My most productive writing happens when my mind is clear and open to creativity. That could be anywhere, as long as I’m in the right headspace to focus. Sometimes, that means taking a break, doodling, or stepping away from distractions until I’m ready to dive back into the story. It has even been as I am walking through a store, and the only thing on my mind is the price of green beans.

If you were to give one of your side characters a novella of their own, who would it be, and why do you think they need their own story?

I've thought about expanding Cody’s story. As a porcupine with hearing issues, he offers a unique perspective that can help some readers feel seen while giving others a new understanding.

What risks have you taken with your writing that made the book better?

One of the biggest risks I have taken is just by telling my story. My writing is deeply personal, drawn from my own experiences, which I’ve kept close to my chest. Sharing them feels like a risk because I worry that people won’t understand why I feel the way I do. My risks aren’t in the writing itself but in the emotional vulnerability it requires. That said, I’m also starting to write outside of my usual wheelhouse, which is pushing me to grow as a writer in new ways.

What’s the best monetary investment you’ve ever made with regard to your writing practice?

Memberships. Being part of writing organizations and communities has provided valuable resources, networking opportunities, and support. The connections, advice, and encouragement I’ve gained is my most important financial investment.

When you first began writing, what was a common procrastination trap you encountered, and how did you overcome it?

One of my biggest procrastination traps is self-doubt. I worry whether my stories are good enough or if anyone will understand them. Family life also made it easy to put writing on the back burner, as there was always something else that needed my attention. I am continuously working on this by reminding myself why I write—to tell stories that matter and to create books that offer both mirrors and windows for readers. I have learned that I have to give myself grace and set small, manageable goals. I’m always working on this, but I know that writing is a journey, and allowing myself the space to grow makes all the difference and my post it notes everywhere.

What is your writing software of choice, and what is its best feature?

Microsoft Office is my go-to for everything—from writing to teaching. I use Word for drafting stories, PowerPoint for formatting books, and Excel to keep track of expenses. Microsoft Word is my top choice because it is simple and reliable. It’s easy to use, allows for seamless formatting, and has great tools for tracking changes and revisions.

Do characters’ names come immediately to you?  Do you add them in a final draft?  Where do you find names, and how do you make a final decision about the names you’ll use?

When I started the Annie the Porcupine series, I always knew the title character would be Annie—I just wasn’t sure what kind of animal she would be. Most of my characters’ names are inspired by my family in some way. For example, Campbell is my son-in-law’s name, and C.J. comes from Cody’s initials.

The only time I really struggle with names is in my short stories and my romance novel, where I’ve changed them multiple times and still haven’t settled on the right ones.

Tell us one of your favorite novels, and why this book is a favorite.

One of my favorite novels is Where the Red Fern Grows. I’ve read it multiple times, and I cry every time. There’s something so powerful about a child setting their mind to something and not only changing their own life but also their family’s lives. It’s one of those stories that is not only about determination, love, and loss, and it has a message that sometimes we don’t know how our requests will be answered, and many times they will be answered in ways we never expect.

The bond between Billy and his two dogs, Old Dan and Little Ann, is what makes this book unforgettable. Their love, loyalty, and sacrifice for one another show the depth of connection between humans and animals. It’s heartbreaking and beautiful all at once, and the story stays with me every time I read it. As a matter of fact, it’s probably time for me to read it again.

Think of the title of a hugely popular novel.  What is one major thing you would change about the book?

Twilight was a hugely popular series when my daughter, Annie, was a teenager. I’ve read the series and completely understand the appeal—it’s an addictive read that keeps you hooked, wondering if Bella will choose Edward or Jacob and if they’ll survive the Volturi.

But one major change I would have made is to Bella’s character. She is often too passive, with her entire identity revolving around Edward. I would love to see her develop more independence and personal growth before turning into a vampire.

I mean, get real—her superpower is a shield, which is amazing, but she doesn’t even realize it until someone else tells her! Imagine how much more powerful her arc would be if she discovered that strength on her own, instead of being defined by what others see in her.

What are you reading right now?

I’m currently reading The Rebel by TJ London, one of my favorite authors. But in all fairness, I have a stack of books that I keep adding to, including Sunrise on the Reaping, the newest installment of The Hunger Games. It’s always hard to pick just one, so I tend to bounce between them depending on what mood I’m in!

If you could take on the identity of a character in one of your favorite books for twenty-four hours and retain the memory of that experience, which character would you choose?  Tell us the title, author, character name, and why you would want to be that character.

I would choose Dorothy from The Wizard of Oz by L. Frank Baum. I know that the witch is trying to kill her and the Wizard is a little creepy, but can you imagine waking up in a world completely different from your own? A world that’s not grey, monotonous, and boring but full of color, with talking animals and flying monkeys! It would be an incredible experience to see such a vibrant and fantastical world firsthand.

If you could save five books from being destroyed in the apocalypse, what books would you choose, and why?

1. The Hunger Games by Suzanne Collins – It shows the real evil that our world can sink to and serves as a constant reminder of the dangers of inequality, oppression, and the abuse of power.

2. The Lord of the Rings by J.R.R. Tolkien – Besides just being a breathtaking adventure, it is an exploration of friendship, bravery, and the battle between good and evil. It’s a story that never loses its magic.

3. The Bible – Whether considered fiction or non-fiction, the Bible has shaped countless lives through its moral teachings. It has influenced individuals in many ways—some for the better, some not—but its impact cannot be denied.

4. To Kill a Mockingbird by Harper Lee – This novel is a powerful story of justice, empathy, and moral growth. It’s a timeless reminder of the importance of standing up for what is right, no matter the cost.

5. The Giving Tree by Shel Silverstein – A simple yet profound story about selflessness, love, and the beauty of giving. Its lessons about the relationship between the giver and receiver are timeless and heartwarming.

Tell us a little something about your current WIP.  When do you expect it to be released?

I’m currently working on my fourth book in the Annie the Porcupine series, titled But, I Love My Mother Too. It's a story about Mother's Day and the love between a mother and her child. While I’d love to have it out by Mother's Day 2025, I’m aiming for a soft launch in November or December instead. I hope it will become a must-have for Mother's Day 2026! It’s shaping up to be a beautiful story, and I can’t wait to share it with readers.

What are the titles and genres of each book you’ve written?

1. I Don’t Celebrate Anything

2. I Want a Birthday Party

3. I Can’t Give Him a Valentine. (Children Picture Books)

How can readers find you?  Website, social media, amazon author page… share all the links!

Website: www.annietheporcupine.com

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/annietheporcupine

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/writechildrenbook/