American Gem Literary Festival 2008 Short Story Competition Winner - MAGGIE & SUSIE

when I’ve reached an audience beyond my family.

My inspiration to write MAGGIE & SUSIE.......

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FilmMakers Magazine: What inspired you to write?

Shana Keller: A desire to create inspires me to write and after I had my first child, she inspired me to go further and reach for my dreams—since I hope to be a positive example for her.

FilmMakers Magazine: How did you prepare yourself to write your first story? 

Shana Keller: My first story was written a long time ago, back in elementary school. I would draw a picture from a squiggle mark my mom made on a clean sheet of paper then create the story from the drawing.

FilmMakers Magazine: Is this your first story and how long did it take you to write MAGGIE & SUSIE?

Shana Keller: This is one of many stories I’ve written. It took me about a week to complete.

FilmMakers Magazine: Do you have a set routine, place and time management for writing?

Shana Keller: I try to write in the early mornings at least three to four times a week when it’s quiet, otherwise I juggle around my two-year old’s schedule.

FilmMakers Magazine: Do you believe literary contests are important for aspiring writers and why?

Shana Keller: I absolutely believe literary contests are important for aspiring writers because they offer hope!

FilmMakers Magazine: What influenced you to enter the American Gem Literary Festival Competition?

Shana Keller:  I subscribe to several film magazines and it was there I first learned about American Gem. After due diligence, I found the competition to be legitimate and inspiring. Many people had good things to say about this competition.

FilmMakers Magazine: What Book would you urge aspiring writers to read and why?

Shana Keller: I highly recommend reading Writing Down the Bones by Natalie Goldberg. She helps you eliminate whatever pressures we induce on ourselves and simply begin to write.

FilmMakers Magazine: Beside writing what are you passionate about and why?

Shana Keller: I am very passionate about reading and travelling; both are opportunities to learn, explore and experience.

FilmMakers Magazine: Who is your favorite author and Why?

Shana Keller: One of my favorite writer’s is Frank McCourt. His memoir, Angela’s Ashes is incredibly beautiful, the gold standard for memoirs.

FilmMakers Magazine: Any tips and things learned along the way to pass on to others?

Shana Keller: Don’t ever give up!

FilmMakers Magazine: What's next for you?

Shana Keller: I’m currently working on a screenplay about a man who loses his identity to consumerism.

FilmMakers Magazine: Where will you be five years from now?

Shana Keller: On an island with my family, writing full-time.