Angee Costa

Tell us a little bit about yourself, your hobbies and interests.

Some of my favorite hobbies are painting, listening to music, nutrition research, caring for animals, and walking along the beach (I know that sounds cliche, but it's fun).

When and why did you start writing books?

I started writing books about ten years ago. I was suffering from various sleep issues and it inspired me to spend my waking hours writing out these ideas and dreams that I was having. After speaking to my family about it, those dreams became a draft and that draft eventually became my first book, Otherlen.

What made you decide to tackle writing as a career?

I started writing because I realized that writing could truly help people. I have read so many books that have changed my life and given me wisdom, I wanted to share my experiences and stories with others too. It's meaningful work that I can get paid to do; what more could you ask for?

Which one of your books or characters is your favourite?

Beary from Beary and the Blue Backpack. He's based on a bear that my son kept losing. So, we imagined a book that the "lost" bear had really just wandered off to go on some great adventure and always came back home.

Which one of your books was the hardest to write and stretched you the most as a writer?

I would say Otherlen. It was hard to decide what to keep and what to throw out. Many years and writing projects have passed since then, I'm actually eager to revisit that world again soon.

Who is your favourite author and book?

At the moment, I'd say Kenya Hinson because she's my daughter and co-author. Haha! Beyond her would be Zora Neal Hurston, Their Eyes Were Watching God

What book are you reading right now?

I am a book editor and publisher, so I get to read about 250--300 books each year.

Where do you get your inspiration for your books?

My experiences and my family are a great source of inspiration. I'm a big fan of my kids. They're smart, witty, and I love how they problem-solve. Watching them grow up and tackle different problems with them has inspired many of my stories. And I've gone on an adventure or two in my life as well.

What do you enjoy doing in your spare time?

Lately, it's been watching stand-up comedy shows, seeing movies, and spending time with my family. I recently became a grandma, so my life is consumed with a lot of baby snuggles and laughter (poor me, right?).

Do you have any new books in the works?

At the moment, still working on the One Big Word series. Beary has many, many adventures to come.