Welcome to Author Spotlight! Each week will feature a different author. We’ll get the scoop behind their writing life and dish a little. The authors will also be giving away a copy of their latest books. FUN.
The winner from last week’s Author Spotlight with Cheryl Ricker is WENDY! My assistant Amy will be in touch for your mailing address.
Share a little bit about yourself. Empty nester? Do you work full-time and write when you can squeeze it in?
My three children and I, along with our wiener dog, Winston, and pet orphaned raccoon, Daniel Boone, live in Sarasota, Florida. I’m Beachy Amish Mennonite and our tiny village, Pinecraft, is the most unique plain community in the world.
I love being a full-time write-at-home mom. It not only provides a means to support my family, but also allows me to fulfill my most important calling; raising my children and being at home to care for my older daughter who’s chronically-ill. Lately our home has been a beehive of activity as we prepare for my younger daughter’s (Shannon) upcoming wedding in October.
And share something about your writing. What’s your genre(s), your areas of interest?
In the two newspapers I write for, The Budget and Florida’s first Amish newspaper, the Pinecraft Pauper, I find myself relaying true-life stories about kids, dogs, and old people. Some writers travel to far away places and write about extraordinary things. I write about the folks in my own backyard, so to speak. Living in such a unique place gives me much to write about. I look for extraordinary qualities in everyday folks and circumstances; births, deaths, celebrations, accidents, ordinations, and weddings. I don’t write fiction as of yet, just the story of the day, as I see it.
Oh, and then there’s cooking and food; my second passion. I think the world has enough complainers, so rather than a “food critic” I prefer to be called a “food reviewer.” I’m surrounded by some of the world’s greatest cooks, so tasting and telling comes easy for me. My first book was intended to be a cookbook but evolved into something much more. The nearly seven-hundred recipes are what interests folks to buy it, but it’s the stories inside, readers say, that makes it hard to put it down.
How did you get started writing?
Years ago, while living in Burkesville, Kentucky, I wrote and copied a monthly letter to friends back home, here in Sarasota. My bishop once wrote back asking “So, is life in Kentucky really as wild as you portray, or is this something we can attribute to your writing skills? I love your stories!” I actually felt a bit offended at the time. I didn’t view my writing as “stories”. I was just relaying how life was on the farm. I took it he was thinking my letters were embellished. One trip to Burkesville put that idea to rest. Later, my bishop’s words, “writing skills” resounded in my head and I began to take my letter writing more seriously. Thus began my writing journey with contributing to “Letters from home” in the National Edition of The Budget newspaper.
Did you have a dream of being a published author?
Probably not in the way most writers “dream” of being published. I once wrote in my journal “I was seen walking in Greece wearing a size 2, on my way to a book signing”. And then I woke up. I do wear a size 2. Just not the 2 I’d choose. And of all places in the world, Santorini Island, Greece is my dream vacation spot.
Two years after having dreamed that, I’ve had four book signings and am booked for oodles more this spring and summer. Other than that, it never occurred to me I would be introduced as an author, anytime in my life. I was cleaning other people’s houses for years before my book released. Each time I hear the word “author” it becomes more real. I have yet to introduce myself as such, but attending an eight-hour book signing in Holmes County, Ohio on my 45th birthday was the turning point in my life as a writer.
After you started writing seriously–how long was it before you were published?
I started writing for The Budget newspaper in 2006 and for the Pinecraft Pauper just before my book was released earlier this year.
Do you have any favorite places and routines when you write?
Most of my first book was written from a hospital room or while waiting with my daughter during a doctor’s office visit. Now that I’m at home more, and after writing on a fold-out table for three years, I purchased a desk. I actually felt my IQ rise as it came in the door. I keep a little alligator head here on my desk. It reminds me where I am, when writing as a Florida scribe for The Budget newspaper.
How many hours a day do you spend writing?
I’ve noticed many writers work late into the night. I’ve always told my children, No brain questions after six. I do all my writing early in the day. Anything on paper after 6:00PM comes across as sounding slap-happy.
What has been the biggest help to you in the journey to publication? Writers’ conferences? Writing groups?
Subscribing to Novel Journey has taught me to expect the unexpected. And as much as I love it, finding time to read while working on a writing project has been an enormous challenge. I’ve never attended a writer’s conference or group, though I co-hosted The Pinecraft Writer’s Presentation last February with Professor Richard Stevick, author of Growing up Amish; the Teenage Years. Our goal was to motivate folks in our community to not only put their thoughts on paper, but to move ahead with the next step – getting published.
Is the “writer’s life” what you thought it would be?
I had no idea what to expect before my book was released. The only previous contacts I had with authors were one who interviewed me for a character in one of her books, and another who responded to a “thank you” note I sent her. Clean books are hard to come by. I wanted to acknowledge how much I respected this author’s godly writing. What has surprised me most, are the opportunities some seasoned authors give to new authors to help them find their way. That’s priceless generosity in my eyes.
What are your biggest distractions?
There would be two. My daughter’s many doctor’s appointments use to cause me to put my writing away till life calmed down. It never did. Now, I’ve learned to write regardless of my circumstances. It has become, for me, as necessary as breathing. Also, I love visiting friends, both online and in person. It’s hard not to jump at an invitation to join friends on an outing, or converse online, mostly with Facebook.
What was one of the best moments in your career and what was one of the worst?
The most exciting? The best moment as a writer, was opening an envelope from Pathway Publishers, the oldest and largest Old Order Amish publishers in the world. It was a letter telling me my book, Taste of Pinecraft: Glimpses of Sarasota, Florida’s Amish Culture and Kitchens was selected to be placed in the Amish Historical Library in Alymer, Ontario, Canada. I wept happy tears for three days. I received another such letter this month from Eastern Mennonite University. They placed my book in the Menno Simons Historical Library in Harrison, Virginia.
The worst thing to happen was something I wrote in The Budget. With mostly Old Order Amish readers and writers, I don’t know where my head was when I starting writing a recent account with “How many people can say they slapped a police officer and got away with it?” I hadn’t realized what I wrote till I read the printed copy a week later. I was so horrified at myself, I had nightmares. My daughter, Shannon, sixteen at the time and a hostess at Yoder’s Restaurant, was approached by a towering, burly Sheriff’s Deputy at work. Holding up an open palm toward her he said “Five.” Not being one to normally do this, she took him to mean high five. She slapped his open palm. The wide-eyed look of shock on his face told her something was amiss. Really what he was trying to tell her was “Five. A party of five, please.” We both hid our red faces. A couple weeks later I had mostly forgotten that episode when Shannon took a call from a friend in Pennsylvania. She wanted us to know the owner of the Amish restaurant she worked in tacked that column up on the wall so the customers could have a good laugh before being seated.
What do you least like about being a writer? If there’s a downside, I haven’t found it.
What’s on the book horizon for you?
I have five upcoming books in the works – all scheduled to be released by Christmas, 2012.
Taste of Pinecraft: Glimpses of Sarasota, Florida’s Amish Culture and Kitchens came out on April 23, 2010. An Amish Bride’s Kitchen, a cookbook of stories, must-have recipes, and how-to’s for brides and beginners, will be released spring 2011. A souvenir-size counter-top cookbook with reader-favorites from Taste of Pinecraft: Glimpses of Sarasota, Florida’s Amish Culture and Kitchens is in the works, too. I have an illustrated children’s book based on the mishaps and adventures of my ever-getting-into-trouble pet orphaned raccoon, Daniel Boon; a book un-named as of yet. Me, Myself & Pie is an Amish cookbook devoted entirely to that ever-popular affinity. You can find this on the shelves in time for Christmas 2011.
Last on the agenda (till another light bulb goes on in my head) is Taste of Pinecraft: Glimpses of Sarasota, Florida’s Amish Culture and Kitchens II. These are a collection of more traditional and new recipes collected by Amish women in our village, and stories focused on the folks at Pinecraft Park along with adventures & interviews chronicled in the Pinecraft Pauper.
Last question, how can readers find you and your books?
www.sherrygorebooks.com and stores in both small and large Amish communities across the country.
Thank you for sharing your writing life with my bleaders! (blog + readers = bleaders)
I would love to win Sherry"s book!
I have loved being a *friend* of Sherry's on facebook. Her humor is one of a kind. Hearing about her daughters upcoming wedding has been a hoot. All those cupcakes!!! This woman is my kind of woman. I would love to win her book. gr8fullone@gmail.com
I feel like I know both of you, even if it's online through online contacts. Hope we can meet in person some day this side of heaven.
Wow!! I would love a copy of her book. One of the only new books I buy are cookbooks because I can justify those in my head. Unlike fiction. Sounds like you really found your calling, Sherry.
kristiedonelson(at)gmail(dot)com
I also love being Sherry's "friend" on facebook and getting a glimpse into her life. I would love to win her book.
I've known Sherry for about 6 years. Sherry
u had good and not good parts of your life. God
has shown that great things do happen to His people.
I would be honored to win your cookbook. Congrats
and keep doing everything the Lord is showing you.
Congrats to your daughter on her upcoming wedding. Love to all in Christ. LeAnn M
I would love to receive Sherry's book. I follow her on FB everyday and wondering if she could send me some of her energy?
I love being a friend of Sherry's on FB and following her adventures. Her book sounds great and would love to win it!
Thanks for the Chance!
Blessings,
Molly
Mollydedwards AT yahoo DOT com
hoping that I win. I LOVE cookbooks and I need an Amish one to complete my collection!!
jking63266@windstream.net
Sherry and Suzanne, your interview is one of the most enjoyable I've read. I had to laugh outloud about Shannon's hand slapping incident. I admire Sherry's attitude and sense of humor. I'm sure readers of the newspapers must turn to her column first each issue. Reading her book will be a real treat. I'm glad she has offered if for giveaway and thank you Suzanne for the chance to win it. I hope I do.
Sharing God's Love,
Barb Shelton
barbjan10 at tx dot rr dot com
Would love to win one of these books. I dont buy any other books except cookbooks because of budget , and usually look for "homecooking" of all types! This one is on my list for future purchase, but I would love to win one!!
I would love to win this book. Sherry seems like such an interesting Christian lady with many talents.
hanns3@sympatico.ca
love to win her book eds_girl2004@yahoo.com
I recently became "friends" with Sherry on Facebook. I have enjoyed knowing her and learning about her family. I would love to win a copy of her book! Thanks for the opportunity!
I would LOVE to win Sherry's new book! My hubby doesn't care for my mom's recipe for shoofly pie, so I'm in the market for a new one. Wouldn't it taste oh so much better out of a cookbook I won?! Pick me!!
I can't begin to tell you how many recipes I've made out of Sherry's cookbook. Everyone has been a "do over".
I'm also a FB follower of Sherry's. I so admire her and all she does. I've laughed and cried reading her daily doses of life.
Suzanne, you are a treasure and I so enjoy your posts and radio program.
It has been so much fun to get to know Sherry on FB. I would love to win a copy of her book.
Very interesting behind the scenes look at Sherry Gore. I love the story about the police officer!
Was blessed to meet Sherry in person at her 8 hour book signing on her birthday. Became fb friends with her through Suzanne and Amish Wisdom. Through adversity and trials she still has the ability to make me laugh each day. Love reading her fb posts whenever life gets be down her gift of spirit renews me. I have the book signed by her and don't need to win it, but just wanted to let you know what a special lady she is. God bless you Sherry and Suzanne 🙂
Please enter me….I have wanted this cookbook every since it came out.Thank you and God Bless..
A most enjoyable interview with Sherry! It was only recently that I became friends with Sherry on Facebook and I'm hooked! Love hearing about her life, her joys and sorrows. Keep it up, Sherry!
I have been following Sherry's story for a long time (by following her daughter's story). She is just an amazing woman to me. She also makes my mouth water when she mentions food on Facebook. Wouldn't it be fun to dine with her sometime? (I am determined to win her book to try these recipes out 🙂
Excited about hearing so much about Sherry Gore's book. Lots of great press! Hope to read one day
I love your blog and enjoyed what Sherry had to say…love her fb page and love to cook!! Would love to win a copy of her Taste of Pinecraft to add to my recipe book collection.
I would REALLY love a copy of Sherry's book! My husband comes from a mennonite family & grew up on a farm in southern Ontario. Every opportunity we have to go home is so special mostly because of the delicious food we get to enjoy! We are now living in the middle-east as missionaries & the food here is so different. We long for the tastes of 'home'.
Great article by the way, thanks for sharing!
I would love to win Sherry's cookbook as I absolutely love to cook for my family and enjoy trying new recipes. Sherry is they type of person that if I met her one day I'd just have to give her a big hug!
mariefluffy@yahoo.ca
I enjoy following Sherry on fb. As a collector of cookbooks I would love to add Sherry's to my collection. I tend to read cookbooks like some folks read novels; this one would really fall into that category.
Shirley
beekeeper5[at]bellsouth[dot]com
would love to win a book of yours. I havn't read yours yet.
I would love to win this book. I did not know about this community.
Good interview!! Please enter me to win.
Angelac@mchsi.com
would love to win……lived in tampa bay for 35 years and never heard of pinecraft. wish i had. can't wait to visit next year!
I would love to win a copy of Sherry's book! I grew up "plain", lived in Sarasota in my teens, visited the church where Sherry attends now (although she wasn't there then). I made lots of Beachy Amish friends in Pinecraft many years ago, one of whom I have reconnected with again after become friends with Sherry on Facebook. Love to cook and collect recipe books.
I so admire Sherry for all she endures each and every day. She is always so upbeat no matter what her days are like. We all have alot to learn from someone who thinks of others in the manner that she does, before herself. She is such a good exmaple of a wonderful mother and friend. Bless you Sherry~ Bobbe' Hadley
Sherry,I would love to win your book.i love reading your books.Houswife@gmail.com
would love to read sherry's novel…thanks for the chance…and i love the cover 🙂
karenk
kmkuka at yahoo dot com
would love your book…i love reading all kinds of books.
msmissief@aol.com
I would love to win a copy of Sherry's book
I know Sherry from Facebook and love her about her, her children, the wedding, Daniel Boone, etc. This was an interesting interview. Would love to win her book.
they say these cookbooks are great, would love one
I love reading about the Amish. Books, Cookbooks,etc….I would love to win a copy of this cookbook. Thanks for the opportunity.
Sherry, I am so happy for you that your book is doing so well. God be with you in all your endeavors.
Janet Rader
Sherry, you crack me up. Someday we are going to sit down with a pie and iced tea and just chat in person!! Of course I would have to bring Dana or she would torture me forever!!
Lisa Helbig
I would love to win this book! The story about smacking a cop was particularly funny to me since son was a cop.
Please enter me!!! I would Love to win a copy!!
i would love love love to win a copy of sherrys book i have never ever won anything before and this would be the first for me so please pick me to recieve a copy of her cook book thanks alot i have been praying daily for sherry and her wonderful family her daughter jacinda shannon and tyler so please pick me to win i would be so happy to win a copy of her book i would treasure it
hugs
connie
Great interview. We <3 Sherry and her children
I want to win sherry's cookbook, bought one for my MIL and everyone loved it…want to give it to my daughter's nurse
Love visiting with Sherry on FB. Feel like I've known her forever. Would enjoy owning her book.
Living in Pinecraft area for several years and working at the local fruit stand helps make this little village special to me. I would love to win a copy of Sherry's book.
I would love to win Sherry's book. beckipotter2002@yahoo.com
I would love to win a copy of Sherry's book! I love to cook .I collect all diferent kinds of recipes.
I think meeting Sherry would be so much fun! She sounds like a one of a kind person. I love her posts. I really need her book, too. If I don't win it I'm going to buy it as soon as I can!
I love the realness of Sherry and the way she shares herself with all us "FB friens" I know she is a blessing to those in her immediate circle of family and friends because she has become one to me. Karen Gardner
I would absolutely love to win this book…Sherry is amazing!
Well, here goes my scathingly brilliant comment!!! I WOULD LOVE to WIN Sherry's cookbook!!!!
Sherry is a very sweet lady and an awesome Godly role model!!
I would love to win her cookbook and would enjoy very much using it at home on my family!! Teeheehee
Thank you,
Michelle
milatesky@speednetllc.com
i would love to win this!
jessica.kotzbeck@yahoo.com
I would love to win the book by Sherry! I have wanted it every since it was released but every time I plan on purchasing it, "life" happens and I'm not able to. I'm beginning to think the only way for me to get it is to win it! I'm friends with Sherry on facebook and reading about her life and her daughter's upcoming wedding has become one of the highlights of my day. She radiates peace, joy and such a sweet spirit that people can't help but be drawn to her.
I always look forward to Sherry's updates and am always excited to see what is going on in the adventures of Daniel Boone her baby racoon . Yesterday's dive into a pie was just too funny.
Blessings to all.
Great lady, hope to meet her someday!
hope to win soon!
Sherry is as warm and as genuine as she appears on the computer screen. We have loved spending time with her and her loving family!
Carlos and Nikki Crespo
Sherry is as warm and as genuine as she appears on the computer screen. We have loved spending time with her and her loving family!
Carlos and Nikki Crespo
sfwasabi(at)hotmail(dot)com
I am in awe of how Sherry Gore can do all that she does to keep a home, take care of a sick daughter, and write wonderful books as well. This is a gift from God, along with an aptitude for being organized and devoted to her craft. I think all of us should make use of our God-given talents as Sherry Gore is doing. It's a joyful way of living and giving.
Would love to win this. I would give it to my daughter as I already have Sherry's book and love it.
wehred my comment go just now?
hey ewhre my post just now go?
Huh where’s my post go?? i’m not writing THAT out again no way lol
I saw you on Amish Out of Order,so I thought I’d google you to see about your cookbook. I love to read about the Amish and all their recipes sound so good! I would love one of you cookbooks. I’m sure it is awesome!
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