Today I'd like to welcome Ann Whitely-Gillen, debut author of Last Train to Omaha.
Q. Welcome to My Book Retreat. You mentioned in your email to me that you decided to write a book after undergoing surgery for breast cancer. What led you to that decision? Had you always wanted to be an author or did something about your experience with cancer lead you down that path?
A. I was so caught up in grief and fear that I was desperate to do something that would allow me to express myself to the fullest. I had a dream one night after reading a poem entitled “Limited” by American poet, Carl Sandburg, and when I woke up, I reiterated the dream to my husband. He said “Ann, you need to write a book.” So I did, and it made me soar through my treatment and into full recovery. I created a safe haven for myself through my characters and their environment. Their journeys inspired me and as they have others who have read the book. For me, this is an incredible accomplishment – to be able to reach out…
Q. Welcome to My Book Retreat. You mentioned in your email to me that you decided to write a book after undergoing surgery for breast cancer. What led you to that decision? Had you always wanted to be an author or did something about your experience with cancer lead you down that path?
A. I was so caught up in grief and fear that I was desperate to do something that would allow me to express myself to the fullest. I had a dream one night after reading a poem entitled “Limited” by American poet, Carl Sandburg, and when I woke up, I reiterated the dream to my husband. He said “Ann, you need to write a book.” So I did, and it made me soar through my treatment and into full recovery. I created a safe haven for myself through my characters and their environment. Their journeys inspired me and as they have others who have read the book. For me, this is an incredible accomplishment – to be able to reach out…