Did your writing process change between writing both novels?
I had to do a lot more research for my second novel, At Least I’m Trying whereas Chasing Through Time was based primarily on real experiences I’ve witnessed. This made my second book much more challenging. Also, while the subject matter of both was difficult, At Least I’m Trying felt much heavier to me. I had to put my character in terrifying and horrific situations and had to put myself there too in order to encapsulate her feelings.
What differences in story development did you find revealing themselves between At Least I’m Trying and Chasing Through Time?
The stories are very different. Chasing Through Time is a dual POV story and the characters lived in different decades, so I had to change between two different experiences, two different voices, and two very different challenges. I also knew from the beginning exactly how it was going to end. There were a few surprises along the way, but for the most part the entire story was mapped out in my mind.
At Least I’m Trying bounces between times as well, so I had to slowly reveal future events as my character navigated the present time. And I had ZERO idea how the story was going to end. From the middle on, it was a slow unraveling. I knew my character was going to go through a hard time, but I had to sort out how to save her in a believable way. I enjoyed relinquishing control a bit; when I sat down to write, things just started to work themselves out. I didn’t get into my head too much and just let it happen.
Is there a core theme/message in both books?
Both highlight the idea that the lives of teens are affected significantly by the increase of tech. I want to show the effects that social media has on mental health and wellness. Chasing Through Time also focuses on friendship and finding people to lean on when you’re struggling rather than to suffer in silence. At Least I’m Trying is a warning to trust your instincts; always listen to the voice in the back of your head if it whispers that something isn’t right.
When constructing characters, how do you define them?
I take inspiration from qualities I’ve seen in my classroom. I take bits and pieces of people and create a unique character who feels as authentic as possible. They are always flawed and lost – aren’t we all when we’re young? I want readers to see these flaws and understand them; maybe even see some of themselves or their younger selves within them as well. I also focus a lot on my character’s emotions. Everyone can connect with feeling big emotions, so I aim for those feelings to translate off the page.
Are you writing another book? Can you share any details?
I have actually written two more books already, but I’m not sure what my next steps are. I’m taking a little breather to see where I want to take things.
What drew you to storytelling in this genre?
As a teacher of 18 years, I felt compelled to write in the YA/NA genre. Their experiences are so unique and powerful and everything at that age feels all encompassing. I wanted to give voice to these very real, timely, and important situations that are increasingly affecting teens.
How do you get inspired to write?
I feel like I’ve always been making stories in my head; honestly, for as long as I can remember. As an introvert, I spend a lot of time thinking. When I walk, something I do every day, ideas just come to me and my characters and plots reveal themselves. I always have my notes app ready, so I can unload the ideas as I walk.
Do you have a special area to write in? Can you describe it?
I have a beautiful office with a desk facing a huge window that overlooks my backyard… so, you’d think I’d write there, but instead, I find myself curled on the couch instead. While it’s definitely not ergonomically sound, I get the most done there. Especially with Gilmore Girls playing in the background for some reason!
Where do you see your writing in five years time?
I see myself moving more into adult contemporary, specifically women’s fiction. I’m sure I’ll still be focusing on real, hard-hitting issues, and hopefully my books will reach a broader audience and spark important and necessary conversations.
Where can readers find you and your books?
They can find me on Instagram at @tarahodgson author. Also, my website: www.tarahodgson.ca. My books are on amazon (Canada and US), as well as Indigo and Barnes and Noble online.
https://bit.ly/atleastimtrying
More From Tara!!!
The friendship becomes a lifeline for both girls. Their lives bear striking similarities, yet the differences are equally profound. While Sarah is spared from the perils of social media, she gains self-assurance and begins to discover herself. In contrast, Emma’s struggles intensify as she faces dire consequences for her actions online and misguided romantic entanglements.
Sarah watches helplessly as Emma’s life unravels, yearning to help but bound by the constraints of time. Emma’s perilous descent accelerates, and the danger of not receiving the help she desperately needs looms large. Sarah, trapped twenty years in the past, must find a way to intervene before it’s too late.
This gripping tale of bridging the gap between eras explores the enduring power of human connection, the complexities of teenage life, and the lengths to which a stranger will go to save a life.
https://bit.ly/chasingthroughtime
BIO
Tara Hodgson is the YA contemporary author of Chasing Through Time and At Least I’m Trying. As a long-time teacher, she is passionate about communicating the potential implications of a technology-centred world and spark necessary conversations about these impacts on teens, using her fiction to do so. She lives on an acreage in Sturgeon County, Alberta with her husband, two children, and a crew of cats and dogs. When she isn’t teaching or writing, she is reading. She loves all genres of books, but especially YA Contemporary, Fantasy, and Dystopian (but she’ll read anything, really!) She spends her down time walking, camping, boating, and relaxing at home with her family and animals.
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