C. Walker

Q: Who do you write for? Who is your audience, and are you seeking to reach a particular type of reader with your work? Why?
A: I write for young readers. My audience consists of children who love adventure, fantasy, and stories filled with mystery and wonder. I aim to reach readers who are curious, imaginative, and eager to explore new worlds beyond their own. I write for this audience because I believe stories have the power to inspire, teach valuable life lessons, and spark creativity. Young readers are at a stage in life where they are forming their sense of self and their understanding of the world. Through my work, I hope to provide an escape, fuel their imaginations, and introduce them to characters who overcome challenges and discover their true potential.

Q: When did you decide you wanted to write?
A: I decided I wanted to write three years ago when I got heavily into reading books for my daughter. Seeing her excitement and joy while experiencing different stories inspired me to create my own. I wanted to craft stories that would spark imagination, bring joy, and create meaningful moments for young readers just like my daughter.

Q: What got you interested in the world of writing originally?
A: My interest in writing originally came from reading books to my daughter. Seeing how stories could captivate her imagination and create special moments between us sparked a desire in me to create my own. I realized how powerful storytelling could be–not just as entertainment, but a way to inspire, teach, and connect. The joy and wonder in her eyes encouraged me to start writing, and I wanted to bring that same sense of adventure and excitement to other children and their families.

Q: There are so many possible avenues to take. Why write?

A: Writing allows me to bring my imagination to life and create a sense of wonder and escape–just as the books that once inspired me. It provides a platform to express my thoughts, share meaningful stories, and connect with readers on a deeper level.

Q: Similarly, why pursue being an indie author? What is your goal?
A: Pursuing the path of an indie author allows me the creative freedom to bring my vision to life without limitations.I have the flexibility to tell my stories in a way that stays true to my voice and resonates with my audience. My goal is to share meaningful and engaging stories that inspire, entertain, and provide a sense of escape for readers.

Q: What do you do to hone your craft?
A:I read widely, both within and outside my genre, to understand different writing styles, structures, and storytelling techniques. Consistent practice, self-reflection, and an openness to learning are essential to my growth as a writer.

Q: What tricks do you use to get out of writer’s block?
A: I’ve learned that taking regular breaks is essential. Stepping away from my work allows my mind to reset and refresh. This gives me the mental space I need to come back to my writing with a clearer perspective.

Q: Would you mind telling us about your writing process?
A: My writing process is a blend of structure and spontaneity. I typically start by brainstorming ideas and building a loose outline for the story. This helps me see the direction I want to take, but I leave plenty of room for flexibility. Once I start writing, I let the characters and plot evolve naturally, often discovering new details as I go along. After that, I go through multiple rounds of revision fine-tuning the narrative, dialogue, and pacing. It’s a mix of allowing my creativity to flow and refining it into something polished.

Q: Do you have any other writing “hacks” that other writers might benefit from?
A: Absolutely! My trick is to give characters free rein–let them take you places you didn’t expect. Also,don’t be afraid to step away from your work when you're stuck. Sometimes,the best ideas come when you're not actively trying to think. Just remember to have fun with it!

Q: Where do you get your inspiration?
A: Inspiration can come from the most unexpected places! For me, it’s often a mix of nature, music, and everyday life. The world around me is constantly offering new ideas. I’m always observing, soaking in details, and thinking about howI can weave those experiences into my stories.

I also get a lot of inspiration from my daughter. Her sense of wonder, the way she looks at the world with fresh eyes, and the questions she asks have a way of sparking my imagination. I can’t help but think, What if that question led to a new adventure? And of course, books, movies, and music play a huge role in my inspiration.

Q: Would you like to share anything about your current work in progress?
A: Currently, I’m working on a novel about an orphaned boy who stumbles upon a magical suitcase. I’m keeping most of the details under wraps for now, as I want to leave a bit of mystery for readers to uncover as the story unfolds. There’s a lot more to it, but I don’t want to spoil the surprises ahead.

Q: What do you wish you found more of in books today? Why?
A: I wish there were more diverse perspectives and stories that explore different cultures, backgrounds, and experiences.It’s important for readers to see themselves represented in books they read, but it’s also valuable for them to gain insight into lives and experiences that might be different from their own.

Q: What does representation in literature mean to you? Is it important to you? How so?
A: To me, it means including characters, stories, and voices from a variety of backgrounds, experiences, and identities. It’s important because it helps break down stereotypes and fosters empathy by allowing readers to step into someone else’s shoes, offering perspectives that they might never have encountered in their everyday lives.

Q: How do you think representation in literature affects culture? Does it?
A: In literature it plays a significant role in shaping culture because it influences how we see ourselves, others, and the world around us. Literature not only reflects the world as it is but also has the power to inspire us to imagine and work toward a better, more inclusive world.

Q: Does representation play a role in what or how you write? Please talk about why or why not.
A: Yes! Representation plays a role in what and how I write. I believe it’s essential to create stories that reflect a wide range of human experiences, especially those that are often overlooked or underrepresented. I aim to create characters from diverse backgrounds, experiences, and perspectives because I want readers to see themselves in the stories I tell, just as I did when I first found books that reflected my world and my experiences.

Q: What advice would you give to new writers?
A: Don’t let self-doubt control you. Remember: You’re the expert on your own story. There’s only one you, and no one else can tell the story the way you can. Set aside time for writing! The best ideas come when you’re not actively thinking about writing.

Q: What do you wish someone had told you when you were finding your path?
A: I wish someone had told me that it’s okay to not know exactly what you want to do right at the start. Some people find their calling early, and some of us need a little more time. And during that time, there’s no need to compare yourself to others. You’re on your own unique path. So if I could go back, I’d tell myself to slow down, enjoy the ride,and be kind to myself while I find my way.

Q: Do you have any work already out there that you would like to talk about? If so, please tell us about the project, why you wrote it, and what you hope readers will take from it.
A: I have a book in progress that I’m eager to share in the near future. In the meantime, my first book in the series, The Scrolls of the Mountain Guardian, is a thrilling adventure set in the peaceful village of Kawa, where an ancient prophecy begins to unfold. I wrote this story to bring a sense of wonder and excitement to readers, inspired by my love of storytelling and the books that captivated me growing up. My goal is to transport them to a world where adventure and mystery intertwined, leaving them eager for more.

Q: Where can readers find your work? Please share links and pertinent information.
A: Your readers can find my work on Amazon at https://www.amazon.com/author/c.walker and my personal website at payhip.com/TheMystiqueEmporium

Q: What would you like to share or say to the Underground Bookshelf audience that hasn’t already been brought up?
A: Don’t underestimate the power of your voice as a writer. The stories you create have the potential to impact someone in ways you might never know. To anyone who's just starting or feeling discouraged: Trust that you are on your own journey. If you feel compelled to write, then write. Remember, sometimes, the beauty lies in imperfection. Let your creativity flow without judgment and keep going.

Q: Thank you for sharing your thoughts, today. Any final words?
A:Thank you for allowing me to share my journey with you! Whether you're just starting or already deep into your writing, it’s all part of the process. Every word written is progress, and every challenge is an opportunity to grow. Your story matters, and someone out there is waiting for it.

About the Author

C. Walker is an artist, writer, and creative soul whose work is deeply inspired by the beauty of the natural world and the warmth of family. As a proud parent of a wonderful daughter, C.Walker draws daily inspiration from the joy, love, and wonder that comes with raising a child. This connection to family and the world around her shapes both her personal life and artistic expression. Whether through art or writing, C.Walker seeks to inspire, uplift, and encourage others to embrace the beauty in the everyday moments of life. She is deeply grateful for the support of her community and is thrilled to share her creative passions with the world. Her books are available on Amazon. You can also learn more about C. Walker and her other products on the website, The Mystique Emporium.