Q & A with author Zoe Ghahremani and Susan J. Farese of SJF Communications

SJF:  In a nutshell, tell us about your book or written piece.
ZG: Drawing from my bicultural life, I have written three English novels. Sky of Red Poppies was a One Book, One San Diego selection in 2012, and The Moon Daughter won best fiction in the San Diego Book Awards of 2014 and first place in the Writers’ Digest awards of 2018. My third novel, The Basement, is now ready for publication.

SJF: What has your experience been as a writer in San Diego?
ZG: Escaping the cold in Chicago, I found San Diego the perfect place to write. Its beautiful scenery and nice people — not to forget great teachers at UCSD Extension — helped me to finish my first novel. Little did I know that there is also a very strong writing community. After two decades, and having served on the board of San Diego Writers and Editors’ Guild as well as San Diego Writers, Ink, I am now on the board of Friends of the San Diego Central Library and help other writers achieve their goals.

SJF:  How has storytelling influenced your life?
ZG: It is the other way around. My bicultural life has influenced my writing! Writing is part of me, a big enough part to make me move and become a full-time writer.

SJF: If you had a magic wand, what kind of opportunities would be available to writers in San Diego?
ZG: More public exposure, speaking events, social appearances. And mind you, I am already using my wand for them through the Author of the Month Program!

SJF: What are you excited about when it comes to participating in the inaugural San Diego Writers Festival?
ZG: I am thrilled to see it coming. Maybe with some worries, but definitely thrilled!

SJF: What advice would you give to a new writer in San Diego?
ZG: Don’t be a hermit! There’s a writing world out there. Join it!

SJF: Many thanks, Zoe!

Learn More about Zoe Ghahremani
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Learn More about Susan J. Farese of SJF Communications