I had the pleasure this week of being interviewed by Kate Sniderman at VoiceCorp, a radio station for the visually impaired in Columbus, Ohio. All of my interviews with authors are recorded at their studio, and have been for the past eight years. Chuck Adkins, their engineer, has been my editor since the day the show began. Sandy Turner, the Executive Director, has been a supporter of the show as well. VoiceCorp's support of my show (and its mission) has been critical. I also discuss the role of Marilyn Knapp Litt, my webmaster/technical adviser, who convinced me three years ago that I had to start this blog. As always, she was right.
What follows is a look back at the genesis of the show, and a discussion of how and why I started it. Kate asked me the questions I am often asked by listeners. How did you come up with the idea? How do you get the authors to appear on your show? What are your favorite stories and interviews?
She also asked me some very good questions about teaching high school students to read critically and to write. For the past four years I have taught AP English Language and Composition at The First Academy in Orlando, Florida. I love teaching, and have learned a great deal about the craft of writing from my students.
I discuss, for the first time, how I came to interview Horton Foote, the author who won an Academy Award for his screenplay adaptation of How To Kill A Mockingbird. I also discuss my interview with Sidney Sheldon, which took place shortly before his death.
This labor of love started eight years ago, and is going strong. Chuck, Marilyn, and I decided we wanted to promote books and literacy around the world, and we have accomplished that. The show is listened to in over 75 countries- and we stopped counting hits to our website when they went over two million a few years ago.
I hope you enjoy the interview. It was fun to answer Kate's questions rather than ask them.
I would like to dedicate this interview to the 350 students at The First Academy who have allowed me the privilege of introducing them to the world of books and the magic of writing. Each and every one of you have taught me something and enriched my life. Follow your passion, reach for for the stars, and don't let anyone tell you you can't reach your dreams.
LISTEN TO the interview of Kacey Kowars by Kate Sniderman of VoiceCorp.
Peace,
Kacey
