Can you tell us a little bit about yourself?
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I am an award-winning author and screenwriter who has written two novels, two non-fiction
books and six screenplays after retirement from the corporate world. My books earned four
awards and my screenplays earned several wins and placements via the Film Festival Circuit.
Two of my screenplays have novels attached. I reside in the southern part of the United States
with my husband, Armand whose early experiences inspired my multi-award winning first
screenplay and novel, Concrete Wings.
How many unpublished and unfinished books do you have?
None. I’ve completed four books. As for ideas for new books, I have several.
Where did you get the idea for your most recent book?
Endlessly fascinated by people’s stories, I was aware of several people; some relatives, colleagues and friends who struggled with their sexuality and decided to help them share their experiences. When Did You Know and Who Did You Tell? was just released. I interviewed twenty-five LGBTQAI+ role models from the ages of twenty-one to eighty who graciously shared their journeys to becoming their authentic selves.
How did you develop your plots and characters?
All my written stories are taken from life experiences either witnessed or lived by me or those who have shared their journeys with me and wanted them seen and heard but didn’t know how to do it.
How do you get inspired to write?
If I am deeply touched by someone’s challenge and their courage to overcome it despite the consequences, I want to know more and how bringing it forward into written form may help others with similar struggles.
I believe that success is not always measured by what one becomes but often by what one overcomes.
What are you currently working on?
I volunteer with an organization that helps children improve their reading skills. As a result, I am considering writing a children’s book.
What advice do you have for aspiring writers?
Writing is as much a creative endeavor as it is a business. In my experience, an investment in time and money is necessary for the several processes involved in writing and one should keep good records of each step.
1. Decide the kind of writing you wish to do, such as poetry, screenplays, books, articles,
blogs, etc. Read everything related to the subject.
2. Take a course. There are several options on-line. Local schools often offer beginner
writing courses. It is important to know the basics (spelling, grammar, etc.) and the
format required for the type of writing chosen.
3. After completion of the work, have a proofreader and an editor review the work before
sending it out for publication or to a contest.
4. Register your work. In America, copyright it https://www.copyright.gov/
5. Depending on where you want your writing to be seen, you have to pitch your project to the appropriate venue such as studios, newspapers, magazines, blogs, etc.
6. Network. Join local writing groups or those on social media platforms.
7. Enjoy every step of the process.
What is the best thing about being a writer?
For me it is the satisfaction of telling stories that educate, inspire, surprise, and entertain and hearing from readers and fans that I succeeded.
Will you have a new book coming out soon?
My fourth book When Did You Know and Who Did You Tell? Compelling LGBTQAI+ Stories was just released.
What is your preferred method for readers to get in touch with or follow you (i.e., website, personal
blog, Facebook page, Goodreads, etc.)? Please provide links.
Please visit my website https://bevgandara.com
What would you like to say about our website?
Simply thank you for the opportunity to introduce myself and my work. You have provided an important space in support of writers, which is greatly appreciated.