1. Where are you from originally?

I was born in Saint Catherine, Jamaica.

2. Do you have a history of writers or authors in your family?

Interestingly, my father and my brother were excellent writers but they never had the opportunity to showcase their gift.

3. Did you excel in writing while in school?

Oh, yes. I lived for my language and literature classes. Actually, a friend tells me that when I was in grade 7 or 8, (which is a long time ago) I had written a story which she had read and somehow she never forgot it. I don’t recall that story but somehow it left a lasting impression on her.

4. How important is reading to you? Does it affect your writing?

Reading is important and as a child, we had to always read aloud for our parents while they were doing chores I would say that being exposed to certain techniques of various writers has definitely had an impact on my style of writing.

5. What works have you written?

In addition to my published book Take The Wheel, English Literature Made Simple & Enjoyable, I have penned a number of writings over the years.

Some of them include a poem entitled, “Unhappily Ever-After” which won me the award of Best Writer in the 2019 Bahamas Poetry Competition. I have been published in an online feminist project by “Intersect, Antigua”. My prose pieces were, “Alice” and “Hot Oil” and my poetry submission was “Freedom”. I have written a story and three poems on Caribbean Music which will be published shortly by the University Press at the University of the West Indies (mona). In October 2020, I received a Grant from CATAPULT Caribbean Artist Showcase which is to assist my publication of a book aimed at encouraging women who have low esteem and those who have been abused. I have written numerous poems and plays for my school and my church.

6. Are you currently writing another book now?

I do have material that I am compiling for another book and I will continually add to it.

7. How long have you been writing books?

Although I have been writing all my life, I am new at considering them for publication.

8. What are your ambitions for your writing career?

I want to continue doing it for fun during my retirement which is fast approaching.

9. Why do you write?

Writing gives me joy and peace deep down in my soul. It’s a wonderful pastime.

10. Did you always want to be a writer, or did you stumble upon this path?

It was never in my plans but strangely, my family and friends have always encouraged me to take it seriously.

11. Did you self-publish your book, or did you land a publishing contract?

I self-published with Inspire Publishing in Nassau, Bahamas.

12. What is your process for writing books; do you create an outline before writing?

I never create an outline. Ideas will ‘pop’ into my head and I just go with the flow.

13. Do you have a daily writing regimen?

I do not, no. I hate routine.

14. What is your profession?

I am  a teacher.

15. Does writing energize or exhaust you?

It definitely energizes me.

16. What genre are your books?

Fiction

17. What draws you to this genre?

My creative imagination is a major factor.

18. How important is it for you to receive book reviews?

Reviews are very important as they are the ‘yardstick’ which helps you see what you are doing right and what can be improved.

19. Do you believe a book cover plays an important role in the selling process?

It does. People are drawn to what they can see. It’s like sampling a dish. If the presentation is attractive you will want to try the food.

20. How do you feel when people recognize you in public and appreciate your work?

It’s a wonderful yet humbling feeling.

21. Where can we buy or see your books?

My books are currently available in paperback and eBook formats on Amazon. However, interested persons can also contact me.

22. How can interested persons contact you?

Claudettethompson77@gmail.com P.O. Box N1566 Nassau, Bahamas