She spends so much of the book trying to navigate these feelings of being “not good enough,” while also having big hopes and dreams and wanting to heal. But she’s also so much stronger than I was too. So a lot of her voice was remembering how I would’ve reacted at seventeen, and what I was feeling. Kiko is more like me than any other character I’ve ever written, and probably ever will write. How did you craft Kiko's voice? What are the defining points and limitations in establishing her voice? My inspiration behind Starfish was basically my desire to write the book I needed most as a teen. What or who inspired you to write Starfish?

And then I get to know my characters as I write, and let their personalities shape the scenes. I also start with very minimal notes-I write down character names, and a rough idea of where the story is headed. So it’s less of a process, and more of a desperate attempt to get all the words down immediately. But when he’s home, I write every free moment I can. When he’s away, I usually only get to write in the evenings after the kids are in bed. I’ve got a three-year-old and a one-year-old, and my husband works off-shore. How is your writing process? Could you share it with us? Now I have a bizarre need to make everyone cry!

A few years ago, I wanted to write stories that entertained people. Lately everything I write seems to be moody and emotional, and I don’t know why that is. How would you best describe your writing style?

There was also a saying in the military that went, “Hurry up and wait.” And patience is one of the most important things you can learn in the publishing industry! I’m really good with deadlines-they keep me focused and I tend to work faster when I’m on a time-limit. I don’t feel like they play a role in the stories I write, but I do think they’ve had an effect on my work ethic. How does your background in the social sciences and in the US Navy contribute to your writing? I'm interviewing Akemi Dawn, whose name is so gorgeous, all about her writing and Starfish. Readers who like character growth and family dynamics would enjoy this. Hello guys! Today, I'm featuring a YA contemporary starring a half-Japanese, half-American heroine! It's an engrossing read that tackles various themes.

Starfish by Akemi Dawn Bowman