Authority Self-Publishing

101 Imaginative And Fun Author Interview Questions

You’re ready to interview an author for your blog.

Or maybe you’ve started a podcast and are wondering how to interview an author for it? 

We’re here to help — both with preparing for the interview and with making your list of author interview questions. 

As authors with an insatiable appetite for authentic stories, we created this post to answer the question, “What are good questions to ask an author about a book?”

There are loads of questions you could ask.

But these will make the interview more enjoyable for you and your guests. 

For authors, these questions can help prepare you for interviews and know what to expect when you’re called on to talk about your work.

How Do You Prepare for an Author Interview? 

Best author interview questions, author interview questions about their book, fun author interview questions, questions about writing, questions to ask authors about other books and authors, personal questions for authors.

Preparing for an author interview requires more than a list of good questions to ask an author.

Both of you need to be in the right frame of mind. 

But since you’ll be the one conducting the interview — and the author is offering their time and answers for your readers’ or listener’s entertainment — it’s on you to make sure this interview is a positive experience for your guest. 

Related: 16 Best Self-Publishing Companies For Your Writing Business

To that end, keep the following tips in mind:

  • Know your audience (just as important for interviewers as it is for authors). 
  • Ask open-ended (not YES or NO) questions.
  • Make the author the star of the interview.
  • Prepare questions that will pique your audience’s curiosity. 
  • Keep your audience engaged by inviting them to ask questions.
  • Be punctual and respect the author’s time. 

The better prepared you are for each author interview, the more likely your readers or listeners are to keep coming back for more. 

101 Author Interview Questions 

You need a list of good questions to ask a writer, and we aim to make your job easier.

The questions below are divided into popular categories, so you can choose the types of questions most interesting to your audience.

1. At what point do you think someone should call themselves a writer?

2. What difference do you see between a writer and an author?

3. Have you ever considered writing under a pseudonym , and why or why not?

4. What do the words “writer’s block” mean to you? 

5. How do you process and deal with negative book reviews? 

6. Are there therapeutic benefits to modeling a character after someone you know?

7. What is the most difficult part of your writing process? 

8. How long have you been writing or when did you start? 

9. What advice would you give to a writer working on their first book?

10. What, to you, are the most important elements of good writing ?

11. What comes first for you — the plot or the characters — and why?

12. How do you develop your plot and characters? 

13. When did you first call yourself a writer? 

14. How do you use social media as an author? 

15. What’s your favorite and least favorite part of publishing? 

16. What would you say to an author who wanted to design their own cover?

1. How many books have you written and which is your favorite?

2. What part of the book did you have the hardest time writing?

3. What part of the book was the most fun to write?

4. Which of the characters do you relate to the most and why?

5. If you’re planning a sequel, can you share a tiny bit about your plans for it?

6. What is a significant way your book has changed since the first draft? 

7. What perspectives or beliefs have you challenged with this work?

8. What inspired the idea for your book?

9. How would you describe your book’s ideal reader?

10. How much research did you need to do for your book? 

11. How important was professional editing to your book’s development?

12. What was your hardest scene to write , and why?

13. What characters in your book are most similar to you or to people you know?

14. How long did it take you to write this book ? 

15. How did you come up with the title for your book ?

16. Would you and your main character get along? 

17. If you could meet your characters, what would you say to them?

1. What is your writing process like? Are you more of a plotter or a pantser?

2. What do you need in your writing space to help you stay focused? 

3. If you were to write a spin-off about a side character, which would you pick?

4. If you could spend a day with another popular author, whom would you choose?

5. What is your schedule like when you’re writing a book?

6. Have you ever traveled as research for your book? 

7. What’s your favorite writing snack or drink?

8. How do you celebrate when you finish your book? 

9. What do you think of NaNoWriMo? Worth it? 

10. What is your kryptonite as a writer?

11. What risks have you taken with your writing that have paid off?

12. When was the last time you Googled yourself and what did you find?

13. Which of your characters are most likely to be an activist, and what kind?

14. Do you play music while you write — and, if so, what’s your favorite?

15. Have pets ever gotten in the way of your writing? 

16. If your book were made into a movie, which actors would play your characters? 

17. Have you ever killed off a character your readers loved? 

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1. What is the most valuable piece of advice you’ve been given about writing?

2. What do you think is the best way to improve writing skills?

3. What advice would you give to help others create plotlines?

4. What has helped or hindered you most when writing a book? 

5. Does writing energize or exhaust you? Or both? 

6. What is the best money you’ve ever spent with regard to your writing?

7. What are common traps for new authors? 

8. How many hours a day do you write?

9. What are your favorite blogs or websites for writers? 

10. At what time of the day do you do most of your writing?

11. What’s your writing software of choice? 

12. How do you come up with character names for your stories?

13. Do you participate in writing challenges on social media? Do you recommend any?

14. When you’re writing an emotional or difficult scene, how do you set the mood?

15. Whom do you trust for objective and constructive criticism of your work?

16. What are the essential characteristics of a hero you can root for? 

17. What do you do to get inside your character’s heads? 

1. What books do you enjoy reading?

2. Are there any books or authors that inspired you to become a writer?

3. What books helped you the most when you were writing your (first) book?

4. What books did you grow up reading?

5. What authors did you dislike at first but then develop an appreciation for?

6. Name an underappreciated novel that you love.

7. Has any hugely popular novel left you thinking you could write it better?

8. Have you ever tried to write a novel for a genre you rarely or never read? 

9. What book (or books) are you currently reading? 

10. If you could be mentored by a famous author, who would it be? 

11. Do you prefer ebooks, printed books, or audiobooks most of the time?

12. What are your favorite series or series authors?

13. Have you listened to any audiobooks? Which did you enjoy the most?

14. If you could be a character in one of your favorite books, who would you be?

15. What author in your genre do you most admire, and why?

16. Have you used an app to borrow ebooks or audiobooks from the library?

17. What books have you read more than once in your life? 

1. Has writing and publishing a book changed the way you see yourself? 

2. Is there a particular genre you would love to write but only under a pseudonym?

3. Do you see writing as a kind of spiritual or therapeutic practice? 

4. As a writer, what would you choose as your spirit animal? 

5. What spiritual or therapeutic practices help you get into the right headspace? 

6. At what stage (or stages) of your life have you done most of your writing? 

7. What’s the trickiest thing about writing characters of the opposite gender?

8. What do the words “literary success” mean to you? How do you picture it?

9. If you didn’t write for a living, what would you probably do for work?

10. Would anyone in your family disapprove of anything you’ve written?

11. Does anyone in your family read your books? 

12. Who has been the biggest supporter of your writing? 

13. Do you have other writers in the family? 

14. If you could invite any three people for dinner, whom would you invite? 

15. Would you share something about yourself that your readers don’t know (yet)?

16. If you had to describe yourself in just three words, what would those be?

17. If you had the power to cure a disease of your choosing, what would it be? 

Are you ready for your next author interview?

Now that you know how to interview an author, which authors do you have in mind? And which of the author interview questions in this post stood out enough to make you want to add them to your own interview list? 

Your questions don’t have to sound original. It’s more important to ask questions your readers or listeners want the answers to. 

And as much as possible, give them a reason to check out the author’s books. 

That’s the beauty of author interviews. Done right, they make the authors you’re interviewing more interesting and relatable to your audience. 

May every author you interview be glad you did. 

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13 Top Books to Ace Your Next Job Interview [& Land the Job]

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Interviews are one of the most nerve-racking parts of any job hunt. 

From fresh graduates to seasoned professionals, job-seekers are always looking for an edge to make it run smoother.

This is where interview books come in. 

By informing yourself about the interview process and learning how to “wow!” hiring managers, you increase your odds of landing that job you’re after.

So to help you gain as much of an upper hand in job interviews as possible, we’ve compiled this list of 13 must-read interview books for 2024.

Let’s check them out!

13 Must-Read Interview Books in 2024

#1. job interview masterclass.

job interview masterclass

If you want a book that breaks down job interviews into their most basic parts and gives you a window into a hiring manager’s mind, look no further.

“Job Interview Masterclass” by Novorésumé has you covered!

Job Interview Masterclass is split into four main chapters:

  • The first one goes over topics such as how to research a company, what to do before your interview day, and how to dress to impress during the job interview itself.
  • The second chapter digs deeper and shows you the most important interview questions and everything you need to know to answer them effectively.
  • Chapter three focuses on behavioral interview questions and Novoresume experts’ advice on how to ace them.
  • In chapter four, the guide goes beyond the job interview itself and coaches you on what to do once you get the job or how to handle rejection gracefully.

Whether you’re a seasoned or an entry-level professional, “Job Interview Masterclass” is the perfect read if you want to learn how to excel in job interviews or simply brush up on your skills.

#2. Job Search Masterclass

job search masterclass

You can find everything you need to know to nail a job application in Novorésumé's “Job Search Masterclass”. The book details the entire journey, from creating a flawless resume to adding an effective cover letter and wowing any job interviewer.

“Job Search Masterclass” is an invaluable companion to your job search, whether you’re a senior professional calculating your career’s next steps or a recent graduate making the first move towards your career journey. 

Job Search Masterclass is divided into the following chapters:

  • How to write a resume. All the information about creating a resume is detailed here, including picking the right format, choosing the best resume layout, adding your contact information, creating a great resume summary, listing your work experience right, highlighting your skills, and so much more.
  • How to write a cover letter. A must-have companion piece to your resume is an equally eye-catching cover letter. From addressing the hiring manager to using an effective call to action, this section of the book will show you how to match your resume with a cover letter to match.
  • How to nail an interview. For most candidates, interviews are the bane of the entire application process. So, this chapter teaches you all about how to prepare for interviews. You’ll see the most common interview questions and the best answers to them as well as tried and tested interview tips to help you ace your next interview.
  • All about remote work. As an increasingly large part of the job market, remote work is the talk of the town. This chapter will show you how to find remote job offers, which roles are most remote-friendly, and teach you how to ace a remote work interview.
  • Hack your job search. The book finishes with a special bonus chapter with some life-saving job-hunt hacks that you wish you’d known sooner.

#3. Basic Interviewing Skills

Raymond L. Gordon’s titular interview book sets itself apart from others in the genre since it’s aimed at recruiters, not candidates. That said, it still provides insight into the minds of interviewers which all candidates can benefit from.

“Basic Interviewing Skills” is a practical guide that aims to equip you with the skills and techniques necessary to conduct interviews and provide you with an in-depth understanding of the interviewing process. 

After reading it, you’ll understand how important communication skills, active listening , and empathy are in helping you establish rapport and elicit information more easily. An especially useful part is the explained art of phrasing questions and how interviewers encourage a natural flow of conversation to obtain candid responses.

The book covers all the most important subjects any job-seeker wants to know, including how an interviewer sees you, how they choose resumes, why they ask certain common questions, and what they want to hear you say. 

The practical approach and focus on basic techniques make it useful to readers at any career stage and industry.

#4. Smart Answers to Tricky Interview Questions

Rob Yeung’s guide to interviews comes with practical advice and a strong focus on handling any questions an interviewer can throw your way. 

“Smart Answers to Tricky Interview Questions: How to Prepare for a Job-Winning Interview” offers useful strategies you can apply and helps you craft the most effective responses to a hiring manager’s concerns. Yeung emphasizes the importance of understanding the role you’re applying for and tailoring your responses to the company’s culture and values.

This interview book gives insight into the hiring manager’s perspective, prepares you for challenging questions, and puts forth real-life examples from interviews to show you what works best and what interview mistakes to avoid . 

“Smart Answers to Tricky Interview Questions” explains tricky questions and equips you to handle them gracefully.

#5. Interview Like A Boss

“Interview Like A Boss: The Most Talked About Book In Corporate America” by Hans Van Nas is a well-researched and to-the-point book that dives into interviews and how to own them. 

The interview book covers the main aspects of the interviewing process, such as preparing ahead of time, personal presentation, including what to wear to an interview , and follow-up tips to solidify the impression you’ve made. The author gives a practical guide to researching your desired company , preparing for the most common interview questions, and the ones that might otherwise surprise you.

“Interview Like a Boss” shows you the big picture and offers a direct approach to tackling job interviews, without sparing the details. 

Do you have something you’re scared an interviewer will ask about, such as a former arrest? No worries, this interview book has got your back on that. We recommend you add it to your reading list to help boost your confidence before that upcoming interview.

Are you incredibly anxious about flunking a job interview? Then this interview book is for you. 

“Aced” by Gerald Ratigan shines through as an introvert’s lifeline to making it through an interview as a winner. The book helps readers navigate the modern interview process and land that dream job. The author shares his own experiences, including his worst failures, and highlights what works and what doesn’t.

“Aced” gives you practical tips and focuses on interview preparation, as well as covering essential soft skills that will help you in the long run. As someone with decades of experience as both an interviewer and an interviewee, Ratigan explains the importance of personal branding and creating a lasting impression and how it can make or break your interview. Overall, “Aced” is an insightful read for any job-seeker.

#7. GET THAT JOB!

“Get That Job!: The Quick and Complete Guide to a Winning Interview” by the career coach Thea Kelley is more than just a motivating title. The book is designed as a roadmap for interview success, and the final destination is your dream job.

The book starts with the mindset of interviewers and the need for you to present a strong and consistent brand in front of them. The author emphasized the use of research and preparation, including coming equipped with persuasive answers to the most common questions you might expect. Kelley offers frameworks to help you analyze your past experiences and present them clearly in response to situational interview questions related to your problem-solving and decision-making abilities.

“Get That Job!” lists the presentation skills and preparation you need to wow an interviewer and leave a long-lasting impression. It includes a section on handling stress and anxiety before and during the interview, so you can keep your cool and ace it. Make sure to check out the post-interview tips, such as sending thank-you notes and following up with the employer. Finally, you can learn how to negotiate a job offer to secure the best terms and set yourself up for career growth. All in all, “Get That Job!” is a worthwhile read.

#8. How to Talk to Anyone

“How to Talk to Anyone: 92 Little Tricks for Big Success in Relationships” by Leil Lowndes is a useful guide to navigating all sorts of communication, and interviews especially. The book gives detailed advice on how to improve your communication skills and build meaningful relationships across different social contexts. It’s a great read for brushing up on your networking skills , too.

The essential aspects of interpersonal communication, such as body language, conversation starters, and active listening are some of the aspects that can help you ace your next interview. 

Some of the 92 easy-to-follow strategies Lowndes offers include showing genuine interest in the person you’re speaking to, offering compliments when appropriate, using humor to ease tension, and more. “How to Talk to Anyone” will leave you feeling more confident in your people skills and help set you up for success, both professional and personal.

#9. What Color Is Your Parachute?

Richard Nelson Bolles’ contribution to the career book genre is a great choice for job-seekers on the lookout for a fulfilling career path. “What Color Is Your Parachute?” prepares its reader with tips for every part of the job hunt and hiring process, including how to write a resume , interviews, and follow-up. This book will turn answering the question “ Why do you want to work here? ” into your favorite part of the interview.

The book starts by teaching you how to leverage your skills, values, and interests to find your ideal job. Through introspection and self-assessment, you learn what your strengths and weaknesses are and how to talk about them at a job interview. “What Color Is Your Parachute?” offers valuable networking tips , how to tap into a hidden job market, and the A to Z on how to prepare for an interview. By following the author’s advice, job-seekers can expect a lot more satisfaction in their professional lives.

#10. How To Win Friends & Influence People

Dale Carnegie’s classic published in 1936 still rings true. “How to Win Friends and Influence People” is beneficial across all walks of life because what it teaches are valuable interpersonal skills that help you achieve personal and professional goals more easily. Fostering positive relationships, practicing effective communication, and persuading others is part of the strategies the book offers.

Despite not being an interview book, Carnegie’s principles are timeless and find their use during interviews, too. Showing genuine interest in people, handling criticism constructively, and understanding the perspectives of others are all key to developing your social skills, and confidence and ultimately conveying your best self to your future employer.

#11. The Art of the Interview

James Storey’s “Interview: The Art of the Interview - The Perfect Answers to Every Question” comes through as a guide designed to help any job-seeker deliver outstanding answers to the most common interview questions . The book gives you insight into the interviewer’s mindset in order to understand them and address their questions and concerns most effectively.

The book includes practical tips for crafting well-rounded and persuasive answers to any type of interview question. Storey aims to arm you for any of the behavioral interview questions that candidates dread. “The Art of the Interview” details essential aspects of interviewing, such as non-verbal cues, communication skills, and anxiety-reduction strategies. Storey’s focus is on motivational interviewing, and as such the book will help you build up your confidence, present your best self and score the job position you’re after.

#12. 60 Seconds and You’re Hired

Robin Ryan’s 1994 book has been revised several times and offers job-seekers practical advice to secure their desired positions. “60 Seconds and You’re Hired” emphasizes the importance of concise answers and introduces the “60 Second Sell” strategy.

A successful interview is all about making a strong impression and making it fast, and that’s where “60 Seconds and You’re Hired” comes in. Several aspects of the interview process are discussed in detail, such as preparing for the most common questions and learning to negotiate for your salary. And don’t forget to ask the interviewer some of the questions Ryan’s book lists in order to secure the best offer you can get. 

#13. Gravitas

“Gravitas: Communicate with Confidence, Influence and Authority” by Caroline Goyder teaches you something that will make any interview child’s play. While not necessarily specific to interviews, the book teaches readers how to communicate effectively, exude confidence, and project authority in various professional and personal settings. As a voice and communication expert, the author uses her know-how to give you practical techniques, exercises, and relatable examples to help refine your communication skills .

The book follows the six so-called principles of gravitas: passion, knowledge, conviction, integrity, connection, and projections. When you understand and incorporate them into your communication style, you’ll be sure to make an impression whenever you speak. Conveying your meaning with clarity, persuading others, establishing yourself as a respectable figure, and honing your leadership skills are all connected to gravitas. And you can use all of these skills to impress the next hiring manager you meet with your silver tongue.

The book touches on some of the same bases as other interview books, such as the importance of body language and keeping your nerves in check when you have to speak. “Gravitas” is a great choice for anyone out to improve their communication skills and can be adapted to different contexts, such as speeches, presentations, and interviews.

7 Advantages of Reading Interview Books

By reading a book on a specialized subject, you stand to gain the valuable insight you might otherwise miss. 

As such, expanding your knowledge of job interviews can help you prepare well-rounded answers and face your interviewer more confident about your skills. 

These are some of the top benefits that come with reading interview books:

  • Preparation. By reading interview books, you enhance your job interview skills through the useful tips and techniques they provide, making you more confident.
  • Understanding the interviewer. Interview books offer insight into the interviewers’ mindset and allow you to anticipate certain questions, understand why they are asked, and address the interviewer’s concerns more effectively.
  • Self-awareness. Interview books encourage you to identify your own strengths, weaknesses, and goals, which allows you to convey them to an interviewer clearly.
  • Better communication skills. Studying common interview question and answer examples helps you articulate your thoughts and experiences more clearly.
  • Improved negotiation skills. Many interview books offer guidance on how to negotiate a job offer and secure the best terms for your employment.
  • Enhanced self-presentation skills. Interview books frequently mention body language and other non-verbal cues which helps you make a good impression both during the interview process and later on in your career.
  • Reduced anxiety. Becoming familiar with the interview process and preparing some answers beforehand saves you a lot of stress and anxiety during the interview.

FAQs About Interview Books

Do you still have some questions about interview books? Check out the answers to the most frequently asked questions below:

1. What is an interview book?

An interview book is a sub-genre of a career book that gives job-seekers advice, helpful tips, and strategies to excel in job interviews. These books cover several aspects of the interview process, including the most commonly asked questions and effective communication methods. 

2. What are some good interview books for when you’re changing careers?

Our top interview book suggestions for career changers are Novorésumé’s “Job Interview Masterclass” and “What Color Is Your Parachute?” by Richard Nelson Bolles.

The “Job Interview Masterclass” offers a detailed breakdown of everything you need to know about interviews, hiring managers’ points of view, and how to sell yourself as the right candidate before the interview even starts, all while in the middle of a career change . As an older resource, “What Color Is Your Parachute?” has now been updated and rereleased for the current age, and helps you make sure you’ve set yourself on the right gig in the first place, as well as guide you through the interview.

3. What are the best interview books for students?

The top interview books for students we recommend are “Job Search Masterclass” and “Gravitas”.

You’ll get a holistic introduction to the world of job interviews through “Job Search Masterclass”, along with some exclusive tips about topics like remote work and remote work interviews. Meanwhile “Gravitas” will help you confidently present yourself and speak in a way that makes people listen. All of which are important advantages for students with no experience in the job market.

4. What’s the purpose of interview books?

The main purpose of interview books is to prepare the job candidate for what might be the most stressful part of their job hunt. Interview books offer specific guidance, strategies, and insightful perspectives that can put the reader’s mind at ease during the interview.

That concludes our list of awesome interview books to read in 2024!

A great interview book can enhance your communication skills, boost your confidence, and inspire you to keep going on your career journey. We hope you find the book you need to help you walk out of your next job interview with a smile and a great employment offer.

Check out our career blog for any other job-hunt resources you might need.

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200+ Job Interview Questions List (PDF Practice Cheat Sheet Included)

Jeff Gillis 0 Comments

interview book question

By Jeff Gillis

Going through Google, I noticed there wasn’t any good, big, huge, mega (you get my point) lists of interview questions available that job seekers could easily use to practice for their upcoming interviews.

That’s what led me to putting together this master list of job interview questions for you!

These are all real interview questions that candidates have faced in the hot seat.

I have broken them into categories and I have also provided downloadable PDFs in two versions at the bottom of this article.

( One I made with fancy graphics you can use on your phone or iPad and the other is a stripped down version that can be easily printed out. )

My goal was to provide you with a list you could easily use for your own mock interviews with family and friends!

We also wanted to let you know that we created an amazing free cheat sheet that will give you word-for-word answers for some of the toughest interview questions you are going to face in your upcoming interview. After all, hiring managers will often ask you more generalized interview questions!

Click below to get your free PDF now:

Get Our Job Interview Questions & Answers Cheat Sheet!

FREE BONUS PDF CHEAT SHEET: Get our " Job Interview Questions & Answers PDF Cheat Sheet " that gives you " word-word sample answers to the most common job interview questions you'll face at your next interview .

CLICK HERE TO GET THE JOB INTERVIEW QUESTIONS CHEAT SHEET

Without further ado, here’s the master list!

The Interview Guys’ Master List Of 200+ Job Interview Questions

Most common interview questions.

1. Tell me about yourself 2. Why should we hire you? 3. What’s your greatest weakness? 4. What are your career goals? 5. What’s your greatest strength? 6. What’s your greatest accomplishment? 7. How do you handle conflict? 8. How do you handle stress? 9. What are you most proud of? 10. What are you passionate about? 11. What makes you unique? 12. How would you describe yourself? 13. Where do you see yourself in 5 years? 14. Why do you want to work here? 15. Why did you leave your last job? 16. What motivates you? 17. What are you looking for in a job? 18 Where do you see yourself in 10 years? 19. What is your salary range expectation? 20. Do you have any questions for us?

Questions Focused On You

21. How do you define success? 22. Do you prefer to work alone or in groups? 23. What’s the most recent book you’ve read? 24. If you could describe yourself in two words what would they be? 25. What most turns you off in a job? 26. If you were a billionaire, what would you do with your time? 27. What are you prepared to do with an employee who refuses to be a team player? 28. If you were given the opportunity, would you take my job from me? 29. What is your ideal job? 30. On a scale of 1-10, with 1 being a hard worker and 10 being smart, where would you rate yourself? 31. How would you describe your personality? 32. How do you describe you analytical skill? Good, average or bad. 33. Why are you the best person for this job? 34. What is your philosophy of selling? 35. What is the thing that frustrates you the most about work in general? Give examples. 37. Are you good at multitasking? 38. Are you self motivated/a self starter? 39. What’s an animal you most admire/relate to? 40. What do you want to accomplish? 41. What is your work style? 42. Who’s your mentor? 43. What are your hobbies and interests? 44. What is your favorite website? 45. What makes you uncomfortable? 46. On a scale of 1-10, how aggressive are you? 47. If you could have a superpower, what would it be? 48. Can you easily build rapport? 49. How do you think other people think of you? 50. What do you see yourself in 10 years, and how did you get there? 51. Do you prefer Quality or Quantity? 52. What areas need improvement? 53. Who is your biggest inspiration? 54. Do you like constant change? 55. How do you communicate when you are unsatisfied? 56. Why are you a good fit for this job? 57. What core value of the organization most resonates with you? 58. Do you find it difficult to talk to and meet new people? 59. What does integrity mean to you? 60. How will you achieve a work/life balance? 61. What is the most competitive thing you did last week that wasn’t related to work? 62. What gets you out of bed in the morning? 63. Would you say you are a person who loves to win or hates to lose? 64. What is your biggest regret? 65. Describe your personality 66. What is your management style? 67. Who is your hero?

Questions Focused On The Job

68. Are you willing to relocate for this job? 69. Will you travel for this job? 70. What interests you about this position? 71. If you were hired, how soon can you start? 72. Are you willing to travel? 73. Are you overqualified for this role? 74. Would you be willing to work nights and weekends? 75. What do you know about our company? 76. What do you know about our industry? 77. If you were asked to, would you break Union rules if directed to do so by management? 78. What’s the biggest problem you see with our company? 79. Is it okay to miss a deadline? If so, when? 80. How do you feel about working long hours? 81. Would you get bored in a year and leave us? 82. How would you deal with ambiguity in the workplace? 83. Why is diversity important in the workplace? 84. What do you think about overtime work? 85. What does customer service mean to you? 86. How long do you expect to stay with this company? 87. How would you deal with a rude employee? 88. What would you look to accomplish in the first 30 days/60 days/90 days on the job? 89. What is the name of our CEO? 90. How would you fire someone? 91. What is your desired salary? 92. What do you consider the most important qualities for this job? 93. Can you from day one, be on your own, no processes, just be told what needs to be done, and do it? 94. Describe your best day at work. 95. What you would do if the head partner gave you an assignment to do ASAP and another partner gave you another assignment to do ASAP? 96. Why should I hire you over these other candidates? (In a group interview) 97. Some people only work in [This industry] just to have a job until something better comes along. How do we know if we hire you that you will stay? 98. If you saw your boss stealing would you turn him in? 99. Would you be willing to start out part-time? 100. How do you see yourself fitting into the organization? 101. What would you do if you heard a coworker talk bad about about a customer? 102. Sell me this [object] 103. What would you consider your one greatest attribute as it applies to this position? 104. What makes you a bad candidate for this position?

Questions Focused On Your Past Job Experience

105. What did you like least about your last position? 106. Can you explain these gaps in your resume? 107. Can you walk us through your resume? 108. Why are you changing careers? 109. What did you hate about your last job? 110. Why is your resume so diverse? 111. What was the hardest thing you ever had to do in your prior work experience? 112. Tell me about your experience at [XYZ] company 113. Tell me about your background and how that impacted your ability as an employee? 114. What do you think your former boss? 115. Name something you wish you regret at your previous job and would do differently here. 116. Why were you let go from your last position? 117. Why are you looking for a new job? 118. Were there any unethical situations at past jobs and how did you handle this? 119. Have you ever been late for work? How do you make sure you always get to work on time? 120. Pretend I didn’t read your resume, and we just met on the street and go from there…

Behavioral & Situational Interview Questions

121. Describe a situation where you disagreed with a supervisor. 122. Tell me about a time you had a conflict at work. 123. Tell me about a situation where you had to solve a difficult problem. 124. Describe a project or idea (not necessarily your own) that was implemented primarily because of your efforts. 125. Do you feel you work well under pressure? If so, describe a time when you have done so… 126. Give me an example of a time when you motivated others. 127. Tell me about a time where you had to delegate tasks during a project 128. Give me an example of when you showed initiative and took the lead. 129. Tell me about a time when you missed an obvious solution to a problem. 130. Tell me about your proudest professional accomplishment. 131. Describe a time when your work was criticized 132. How would you feel about reporting to a person younger than you? 133. Describe a time you went above and beyond at work. 134. Tell me about the last mistake you made. 135. Describe a time when you had to give a person difficult feedback. 136. How would you deal with an angry or irate customer? 137. Describe a time you chose to not help a teammate. 138. Tell me about a time you failed 139. How would you handle a situation where you have a client who interrupt your existing interaction with a client? 140. Suppose you are working on a project with an original scope of a few months and you are told that you instead now have a few days — how would you handle it? 141. How would you communicate to team members that a deadline was approaching and they had to have their materials ready in time? 142. If your supervisor gives you a direct order that you know is against company policy how do you handle the situation? 143. Tell me a time when you had to make a quick decision without knowing all the facts. 144. Tell me a time when you had to work on a project and had someone on your team who would not cooperate. What did you do? 145. Tell me about a time you failed and what you learned. 146. Tell me about a time when you had to work with someone with whom you did not get along. How did you handle that situation. 147. How would you go about solving a problem, describe the process. 148. Tell me about a time when you went above or beyond? 149. Describe a time you disobeyed a rule 150. Describe a time when you didn’t complete a task on time or to expectations. 151. Tell me about a situation where you had to adapt quickly 152. Please explain the last time you realized you made a mistake, how did you handle it? 153. Tell me about a time when you had to work in a culturally diverse environment. 154. Tell me something you would change if you could go back and do it over. 155. Tell me about a time you provided excellent customer service 156. Tell us about a time you’ve faced a moral decision 157. Tell me about a time that a situation at work was solved because of team work? 158. If your boss was late giving you information to complete a project for a boss 2 levels up, how would you handle it? 159. Tell me a time when someone made a decision that you did not agree with and what did you do about it? 160. Tell me about a time that you jumped to an incorrect conclusion. 161. Describe a time when someone pushed your buttons continuously- and how did you handle it? 162. Tell me about a time when you struggled with meeting your goals and what did you do 163. How would you handle a situation where another employee was complaining about the job? 164. Talk about a time when you provided a creative solution to a problem 165. Tell me about a time when you had to work long hours to finish a project. How did you handle it? 166. Give an example of when someone on your team was not pulling their own weight. How did you deal with the situation? 167. Tell me about a time you were a leader and were unsuccessful. 168. Describe a time where you held a co-worker accountable for their actions. 169. Describe a situation where you didn’t particularly care for someone, but had to interact with them in a difficult situation. 170. Tell me about a time you managed a team and things didn’t work out as planned.

Questions About Leadership

171. Can you tell me about a time when you demonstrated leadership capabilities on the job? 172. Which supporting skills do you think are most important when it comes to leadership? 173. When there is a disagreement on your team, how do you handle it? 174. Tell me about the hardest decision you’ve ever made as a leader. How did you decide which course of action was best? 175. What steps do you take to make sure that projects are completed on time, on budget, and to the proper standard? 176. How would you describe your leadership style? How would your colleagues describe it? 177. Can you tell me about a time where you faced a leadership challenge? What did you do to overcome it? 178. If a team member is under performing, what steps do you take to improve their performance? 179. Have you ever taken on a leadership role voluntarily? If so, can you tell me about it? 180. Tell me about your approach to delegation. 181. Can you describe a time when you lead by example? 182. Have you ever served in a coach or mentor role? How were you able to help the other person achieve success? 183. How do you monitor a team’s performance? 184. If a team is struggling to stay motivated, what steps would you take to boost engagement? 185. When a member of your team presents you with an idea, how do you respond? 186. Which of your past managers was your favorite leader, and why? 187. Who inspires you? 188. How do you respond to constructive criticism? 189. What approach do you use when you need to deliver constructive criticism? 190. What steps do you take to measure your personal performance at work? 191. During your first days in the job, are there any changes that you try to implement immediately? 192. When starting with a new team, how do you evaluate the current state of their capabilities? 193. What do you think is most important in creating a positive culture? 194. How do you determine who gets access to professional development or training? 195. If your project became unexpectedly shorthanded, what would you do to ensure it stayed on target? 196. Tell us about a time you had to lead a meeting. 197. Describe how you motivate others 198. Are you a leader or a follower? 199. What are three qualities of leadership? 200. Describe your philosophy of leadership in a few sentences.

Brain Teasers

(A lot of these are used to see how you approach solving the problem/answering the question)

201. If you had to figure out the total number of red cars in the city of Boston, how would you go about doing that? 202. Why is a manhole round? 203. Mary’s mother has four children. The names of three of the children are April, May, and June. What is the fourth child’s name? 204. How would you get an elephant into a refrigerator? 205. If you had to get rid of one of the States in the U.S. which one would it be and why? 206. Suppose you had eight identical balls. One of them is slightly heavier and you are given a balance scale . What’s the fewest number of times you have to use the scale to find the heavier ball? 207. You have 25 horses, what is the minimum number of races you can find the top 3. In one race you can race 5 horses, and you don’t have a timer. 208. How many bottles of shampoo are produced in the world a year? 209. How many baseballs can you fit on a 747? 210. four people need to cross a bridge at night, there is only one flash light and only one person can walk on the bridge at a time. How do would you get them all across the bridge? 211. How does a toilet work?

2 PDF Versions Of This List You Can Use To Practice With

interview book question

This is the PDF Version with graphics. Simply click on the image.

interview book question

This is the simple version without graphics or color for easy printing. Simply click on the image above.

I hope this big list of interview questions helps your preparation!

FREE : Job Interview Questions & Answers PDF Cheat Sheet!

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  • What Is Your Greatest Weakness?
  • What Is Your Greatest Strength?
  • Tell Me About Yourself
  • Why Should We Hire You?

Click Here To Get The Job Interview Questions & Answers Cheat Sheet

interview book question

Co-founder and CTO of TheInterviewGuys.com. Jeff is a featured contributor delivering advice on job search, job interviews and career advancement, having published more than 50 pieces of unique content on the site , with his work being featured in top publications such as INC , ZDnet , MSN and more.

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Co-founder and CTO of TheInterviewGuys.com. Jeff is a featured contributor delivering advice on job search, job interviews and career advancement, having published more than 50 pieces of unique content on the site , with his work being featured in top publications such as INC , ZDnet , MSN and more. Learn more about The Interview Guys on our About Us page .

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How to answer the interview question, ‘What was the last book you read for fun?’

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When a hiring manager asks, 'What was the last book you read for fun?' it may catch you off guard — but that might be their intention.

That's what Zachary Painter of ResumeGenius.com told Glassdoor as a part of the site's 50 Most Common Interview Questions series. "This is an intended to be a curveball question," he says. "There's no right or wrong answer, but you should have an answer nonetheless."

One approach that interviewees can take is to discuss a book you think the hiring manager recognizes, can relate to or has read herself. Painter says, "You can try to relate to the interviewer by mentioning a book they've possibly read — something in your field or discipline."

Money classics, summed up in one sentence

For instance, if you are applying for a marketing role, you could mention " The Tipping Point " by Malcolm Gladwell and discuss that authors arguments about how to make an idea spread like a virus. Or if you're applying for a job at Facebook , you may want to talk about " Creativity Inc. " by Ed Catmull, reportedly one of Mark Zuckerberg's favorite books .

No matter what kind of job you are applying for, part of your interview research should be brushing up on a book that might be relevant to the role.

This technique, however useful it may be, is not always necessary if you actually do a lot of reading for pleasure, admits Painter.

"If you genuinely like reading, explain what book you read and why you prefer to read that genre or author in your free time," he says.

No matter which approach you decide to take, Painter stresses that this question is an opportunity to tell the interviewer about who you are outside of work.

He explains, "Either way," he explains, "this is a chance for you to show some personality, so be sure to elaborate on your answer."

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Don't miss: How to answer the interview question, 'What are your hobbies?' How to answer the interview question, 'What makes you uncomfortable?' What to say when an interviewer asks, 'What questions do you have for me?'

Suzy Welch: Are you the star you think you are?

June 20, 2022

6 best interview books to help you ace your next job interview, the art of the interview by james storey, cracking the code to a successful interview, presence - bringing your boldest self to your biggest challenges by amy cuddy, smart answers to tricky interview questions: how to prepare for a job-winning interview by rob yeung, what color is your parachute 2019: a practical manual for job-hunters and career-changers by richard n. bolles, how to talk to anyone: / edition 2 by leil lowndes.

interview book question

Recommended interview books before your next job interview

interview book question

  • The first section talks about the power of body language - how our posture and movements can affect the way we think and feel about ourselves and the way others perceive us. 
  • The second section discusses the importance of "power posing" - standing in a posture that makes you feel powerful, even when you don't feel confident. 
  • The third section of the book is all about how to use your body language to get ahead in your career.

interview book question

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17 Author Interview Questions and Answers

Learn what skills and qualities interviewers are looking for from an author, what questions you can expect, and how you should go about answering them.

interview book question

An author is someone who writes books, articles, or other literary works. They may be employed by a publishing company, or work independently. When you’re applying for a job as an author, you’ll likely need to go through a job interview. During the interview, you’ll be asked questions about your writing experience, your published works, and your qualifications.

To help you prepare for your interview, we’ve put together a list of questions that you may be asked, as well as suggested answers.

Are you a full-time author?

What are some of your favorite books that you’ve written, how do you come up with ideas for your books, what is your favorite genre to write in, provide an example of a time when you had to conduct research for a book., if you could write about any subject, what would it be, what would you say is your greatest accomplishment as an author so far, how well do you handle criticism, do you have any tips for aspiring authors, when was the last time you had to market a book you wrote, we want to attract more young readers to our books. how would you go about doing that, describe your writing process., what makes your writing unique, which authors do you admire and why, what do you think is the most important aspect of book design, how often do you update your blog or website, there is a lot of controversy surrounding your latest book. how do you handle it.

If you’re applying for a position as an author, the interviewer may want to know if you can dedicate your time to this role. If you are currently working in another field, explain how you would balance both roles and what steps you would take to ensure you meet deadlines.

Example: “I am not a full-time author yet, but I do plan on making that transition within the next year. My current job is in marketing, so I have experience with writing content for websites and social media platforms. I also write blog posts for my own website where I share tips about marketing and business strategies. I’m hoping to use these skills to help me succeed in this role.”

This question is a great way to show the interviewer your writing style and how you can apply it to their company. You should pick two or three of your favorite books that you’ve written, but make sure they are relevant to the position you’re applying for.

Example: “I really enjoyed writing my first book on marketing because I got to learn so much about the subject matter. It was also exciting to see my work in print for the first time. My second favorite book was one I wrote on social media marketing because I learned so many new things about the platforms and how to use them effectively.”

Interviewers may ask this question to learn more about your writing process. They want to know how you generate ideas and what inspires you. In your answer, share a few ways that you come up with ideas for books. Explain that some of your ideas come from personal experiences or things you’ve read in the news. Share an example of when you used one of these methods to create a book idea.

Example: “I have always been inspired by current events. When I was working as a journalist, I would often write articles based on stories I heard while covering breaking news. Now, I use those same skills to write fiction novels. For my last novel, I heard about a local crime story and decided to write a mystery novel based on it. I interviewed several people involved in the case and wrote a fictionalized version of their story.”

This question can help the interviewer get a sense of your writing style and preferences. It also helps them understand if you have experience in their publishing company’s genre. When answering this question, it can be helpful to mention a specific book or series that you enjoyed reading in that genre.

Example: “I really enjoy writing fantasy novels because I love creating new worlds for my characters to explore. My favorite book series is A Song of Ice and Fire by George R.R. Martin. The world he created was so rich with detail and history, and I loved getting lost in his stories.”

Interviewers may ask this question to learn more about your writing process. They want to know how you gather information and what methods you use to ensure the accuracy of your work. In your answer, explain which resources you used for research and why they were important to your book.

Example: “I once wrote a nonfiction book on parenting that included advice from many different sources. I wanted to make sure all of my sources were credible so I researched each resource thoroughly before including it in my book. I looked at each author’s background and qualifications, read reviews of their books and checked out any media coverage they had received. This helped me feel confident that the advice I was providing was accurate.”

This question can help the interviewer get a sense of your interests and passions. It also helps them understand what you might be able to write about if they hire you. When answering this question, it can be helpful to mention something that is relevant to the position or company.

Example: “If I could write about any subject, I would definitely want to write about my passion for travel. I have been fortunate enough to visit many places around the world, and I think there are so many interesting stories to tell from these experiences. If I were writing about travel, I would love to share some tips on how people can save money while traveling.”

This question can help interviewers understand what you value as an author and how your values align with the company’s. When answering this question, it can be helpful to mention a specific book or project that you’re proud of.

Example: “I’m most proud of my first novel, which I wrote when I was in college. It took me two years to write, but I learned so much about writing during that process. The book is now available on Amazon, and I still get emails from readers telling me how much they enjoyed it.”

As an author, you may receive feedback from your editor or publisher. This question helps employers understand how you react to criticism and whether you can take it in stride. In your answer, explain that you welcome constructive criticism because it allows you to improve your writing.

Example: “I love receiving feedback on my work because I find it helpful when trying to edit a piece. When I first started writing, I would get defensive if someone gave me negative feedback. However, now I realize that the feedback is there to help me become a better writer. If I make changes based on their advice, I usually see improvements in my writing.”

Interviewers may ask this question to see if you can offer advice or guidance to others who are interested in writing. Use your answer to share any tips that helped you become a successful writer, and explain how they could help someone else achieve their goals.

Example: “I think the most important tip I have for aspiring writers is to write every day. When I first started my career as an author, I would set aside time each morning to write. Even when I didn’t feel inspired, I forced myself to sit down and put words on paper. Eventually, I found that by doing this regularly, it became easier to find inspiration and motivation to write. If you’re just starting out, try setting aside 30 minutes each day to write.”

This question can help the interviewer understand your experience with marketing and how you approach it. Use examples from past experiences to highlight your skills in this area, including any strategies or tactics that were successful for you.

Example: “In my last role as a freelance writer, I had to market my own books because they weren’t published by a company. I used social media platforms like Facebook and Twitter to promote my book, which helped me reach thousands of people who liked what I wrote. I also created an email list where I sent out newsletters about new content I was writing and other things I was doing.”

This question is a great way to see how an author thinks about their audience. It’s important for authors to understand who they’re writing for and what kind of content will appeal to them. In your answer, try to explain the steps you would take to attract young readers to your books.

Example: “I think it’s really important to write characters that are relatable to younger audiences. I would start by researching popular children’s literature and finding out what makes those stories so appealing to kids. Then, I would use some of those elements in my own work. For example, if I were writing a book about dragons, I might include a character with a unique personality or a funny quirk. That way, kids can relate to the story and want to read more.”

This question is a great way to see how you approach your work and what methods you use. It can also help the interviewer understand how you might fit into their organization, so it’s important to describe your process in a way that highlights your strengths.

Example: “I start by researching my topic thoroughly, including reading any relevant books or articles and interviewing experts on the subject. Then I outline my ideas and create an initial draft of the book. After that, I revise and edit the manuscript several times before submitting it for publication.”

This question can help the interviewer determine how your writing style and voice differ from other writers. Your answer should include a specific example of something you’ve written that makes your work unique.

Example: “I think my writing is unique because I always try to write with empathy. In my last role, I wrote an article about a new product launch for our company’s website. The marketing team was excited about the launch, but I noticed some customers were concerned about the price increase. I reached out to the marketing manager and asked if we could lower the price by $5. She agreed, and I updated the article to reflect the change. This made the customers happy, and it helped us avoid any negative reviews.”

This question can help an interviewer get a sense of your writing style and the types of books you enjoy. It also helps them understand what type of author you would be if hired for the role. When answering this question, it can be helpful to mention authors who write in a similar genre as the one you’re applying for.

Example: “I admire J.K. Rowling because she was able to create such a magical world that I’ve enjoyed reading about since childhood. Her Harry Potter series is something I still read every year or so, and I think her ability to create such a unique story has inspired me to do the same with my own work.”

Book design is an important part of the publishing process. Interviewers ask this question to see if you have experience with book design and what your priorities are when it comes to designing a book cover or layout. Use your answer to highlight your creativity, attention to detail and communication skills.

Example: “I think that the most important aspect of book design is clarity. When I am working on a book’s cover or layout, my goal is always to make sure that the information inside the book is easy for readers to understand. This means using colors that are eye-catching but also easy to read and avoiding fonts that are too small or hard to read. It also means making sure that the book has plenty of white space so that the text is not overcrowded.”

This question can help an interviewer understand your writing schedule and how you prioritize your work. Your answer should include the frequency of your blog or website updates, as well as any other projects you’ve worked on in the past.

Example: “I update my blog once a week with new content. I also have a newsletter that goes out every month with additional information about my latest posts. In addition to blogging, I maintain a social media presence on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram. I post at least three times per day on each platform.”

An interviewer may ask this question to see how you handle criticism and controversy. They want to know that you can take constructive feedback, learn from it and use it to improve your work in the future. In your answer, explain what steps you would take to address the issue and move forward with your career.

Example: “I understand that there is a lot of controversy surrounding my latest book because I wrote about an important topic that many people disagree on. However, I am confident in my research and believe that I have presented both sides of the argument fairly. If someone criticized my work, I would listen to their concerns and consider if they had any valid points. If so, I would make sure to include those points in my next book.”

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Eggcellent Work

What is your favorite book the answer to this interview question will reveal a lot  .

Companies invest money and many hours in filling a vacancy. So, it might seem a waste of time for busy hiring teams to ask routine, non-professional questions like, “What is your favorite sport?” Or, they might include the what is your favorite book interview question.

If you have passed the screening and background checks and are in the interview room, you could be lulled into thinking those easy questions are simply ice breakers designed to put you at ease.

That is not always so. Questions about your personal preferences and habits are frequently designed to help the interviewer to gain insight about your attitudes that have a direct bearing on the job.

Take the question about your favorite sport. If the job calls for lots of teamwork and collaboration and you say your favorite sport is fishing or golf, that could be a mismatch. On the other hand, if you claim that you’re very comfortable with independent work, you probably shouldn’t say that heavy team sports like volleyball or basketball are your favorites.

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Why a Job Interview Could Include, “Tell Us About Your Reading Books”

So be on guard for Interview questions about your reading habits. Your responses can be tiebreakers in the competition for well-paying jobs. Many employers value people who read a lot because:

  • Reading is the best path to self-improvement.
  • Reading is a way of staying intellectually active, empathetic, and maintaining habits of critical thinking.
  • Reading habits lead to better on-the-job performance and communication at work.

Likewise, avid readers bring the following benefits to the workplace:

People who read a lot are better writers.

There is more to writing than just grammar. Those who read extensively learn the syntax and cadence of good writing just by seeing it in the examples of good writers.

People who read avidly are well-spoken.

The vocabulary of literature is populated with  words that don’t often show up  in our oral language. Those who do not read much are rarely exposed to those words and tend to be less well-spoken than the well-read person.

Those who read a lot are emotionally intelligent.

The process of reading involves a pause and reflection. Even if the book wasn’t great, the habitual reader will consider why the book didn’t work well for them. It’s all about self-awareness, an important component of emotional intelligence.

Read More: How to Answer “What Is Your Theme Song” Interview Question

Avid readers tend to be more creative.

The reading experience takes the reader to new horizons and towards exploring new ideas. That, in turn, is the substance of creativity and independent thought, which are valuable commodities on the job.

They are problem solvers.

Problems and challenges are the grist in the mill of both real life and the hypothetical situations conjured by authors. It’s what keeps the engaged reader turning the pages in a high-tension mystery novel. Or, the book could be a new approach to an old problem that sweeps the reader along to the aforementioned new horizons.

Constant readers are goal setters.

The challenge of reading a thick book can serve as both a short- and long-term goal for a reader. Whether the goal is to complete a chapter a day or finish the book before it is due back at the library, those habits of goal setting are directly transferrable to the workplace.

People who read tend to connect better to others.

Again, it’s about empathy and making deeper connections to fictional characters. That deeper connection without a direct effect on the reader’s life is a key to developing interpersonal skills, communications and collaboration at work.

Preparing Your Answers To Interview Questions About Books

Make sure you have read the book.

Obviously, you should choose a book you have read cover to cover. SparkNotes or a cursory review on Amazon might seem like a good shortcut, but you won’t get deep insight by skimming—and you take the risk of being found out if the book you choose happens to be the favorite of the interviewer.

Make some notes.

Before the interview starts, think about the answers to your interview questions about books. Take the time to prepare. Jot down some notes with a quick summary of the book or books of your choice. Include reasons why the book impressed you, what you learned, and how it altered or widened your experience and knowledge of the subject.

What Are Your Reading Habits Interview Questions and Suggested Responses

Question 1: what is your favorite book of all time.

Suggestion: For books to say you’ve read in an interview, choose a book that taught you something you didn’t know. If possible, the book should be related to either your academic field of study, which makes you a valuable asset to the organization.

You could talk about a recent best seller by a popular author, or you could opt for a classic or less-well-known book. Here’s a sample response to “Tell me about your favorite book”:

“My all-time favorite novel is the science-fiction classic  “The Mote in God’s Eye’  by Larry Niven and Jerry Pournelle. It’s a classic and came out in 1974, and it is still relevant today. Its basic theme is humankind’s first encounter with alien life. To make a long and fascinating story shorter, the alien society goes through cycles of violence, chaos and breakdown.

“The cycles, which have been going on for centuries, have a simple, but unsolvable cause—over population as the males of their species biologically transform into females and must reproduce or die. They have overpopulated their own planet and as humans make their first contact, the aliens are on the verge of another collapse.

“What was in it for me was the notion that for some problems there are no solutions, and that a problem well stated isn’t always a problem half-solved.”

Question 2: What was the last book you read?

Suggestion 1:

Choose the type of book you want to discuss. The book should be:

Fresh in your memory

Ideally, you have read the book you have read during the past year. If you are choosing one that you read some time ago, get an outline synopsis to refresh your memory.

While you can choose a work of fiction, nonfiction books tend to relate more towards professional development. Going the nonfiction route displays intelligence and maturity, as well as enjoyment of self-improvement and learning outside the work environment.

Related to your career

Self-explanatory. If you’re interviewing for a job as a marketing assistant, you can discuss a book on the most recent trends in social media and omni-channel inbound marketing trends.

About self-improvement

If you want to give the employer a sense of who you are and what your outside interests are, choose a book that demonstrates that. If you’re a history buff, for example, describe a biographical book about a historical character you admire.

Teaches a lesson and is educational

Choose a book that is instructional and includes a moral lesson. Explain what you learned and how you can apply that learning to your job.

Suggestion 2:

Referring to the brief notes you wrote about the book, answer the question as follows:

1. Briefly explain the type and genre of the book, starting with the author.

Is the book nonfiction or fiction? If fiction, briefly go over the plot to give the interviewer a frame of reference for what comes next. If nonfiction, say something about the credentials and reputation of the author.

“The last book I read was ‘ Put It In Writing!’  by the late Albert Joseph. It is a ‘how-to’ guide on how to write clearly, quickly, and persuasively. Albert Joseph passed away at the age of 84 in 2013. This book became the gold standard for business writers everywhere.”

2. Describe why you enjoyed the book.

What were the aspects/parts of the book that particularly appealed to you? Again, mention some thought-provoking elements of the book, such as the characters, plot, or theme. Link the foregoing to your own personal philosophy or characteristics.

“ What I liked most about the book was that it was not only an entertaining read, it had the unique value of being a writer’s reference book on the value of clear writing. The book has just what someone like me—a business writer—needs to know.

“ For example, in Part 1, the author outlines his five principles of clear writing. He starts with suggestions about preferring clear, familiar words, keeping sentences shorter and simpler, and a preference for active rather than passive voice.”

3. Describe how your book relates to the job position.

This is an opportunity to connect the dots between your own skills and qualities to what the employer is looking for. If you’ve done your homework and are thoroughly conversant with the job description, you should be able to relate the book to the job.

“I see by the job description that you’re looking for someone who can communicate well in writing. The book has one nifty chapter on ‘New Writing in the Computer Age.’ Its main point is that computers help us write, but we writers have to do the hard part.”

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Jenny Palmer

Founder of Eggcellentwork.com. With over 20 years of experience in HR and various roles in corporate world, Jenny shares tips and advice to help professionals advance in their careers. Her blog is a go-to resource for anyone looking to improve their skills, land their dream job, or make a career change.

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InterviewPrep

20 Author Interview Questions and Answers

Common Author interview questions, how to answer them, and sample answers from a certified career coach.

interview book question

Being an author is a dream job for many. But before you can write the first page of your novel or start typing up that article, you have to get through the interview process.

Interviewing for an author position can be intimidating. You may worry about how to answer questions like “What’s your writing style?” or “How do you come up with ideas?” We’ve put together some common author interview questions and advice on how to answer them so you can ace your next interview.

  • What is your writing process like?
  • How do you come up with ideas for stories and characters?
  • Describe a time when you had to revise a piece of work significantly.
  • Are there any particular authors or books that have influenced your writing style?
  • Do you prefer to write alone or collaborate with other writers?
  • What strategies do you use to stay motivated and focused while writing?
  • How do you handle writer’s block?
  • What techniques do you use to ensure the accuracy of facts in your work?
  • How do you approach research for your writing projects?
  • How do you balance creative freedom with meeting deadlines?
  • What challenges have you faced as an author, and how did you overcome them?
  • How do you handle criticism of your work?
  • What are some of the most important lessons you’ve learned about writing?
  • How do you decide which topics to write about?
  • How do you keep track of all the details in your stories?
  • What do you think makes a good story?
  • How do you make sure your writing appeals to a wide audience?
  • How do you market yourself and your work?
  • What advice would you give to aspiring authors?
  • What do you think will be the biggest challenge facing authors in 2022 and beyond?

1. What is your writing process like?

This question is designed to help the interviewer understand the author’s approach to their craft. It helps to provide insights into their creative process and how they go about tackling a project. This can be helpful in determining if the author will be a good fit for the job and if they have the right skills and mindset to succeed.

How to Answer:

Start by talking about the steps you take when beginning a new project. This could include researching the topic, outlining your ideas, and brainstorming different ways to approach the subject matter. Then explain how you go about actually writing the piece. Do you prefer to write in one sitting or do you break it up into smaller chunks? What techniques do you use to stay focused and motivated? Finally, discuss any specific methods you have for editing and polishing your work.

Example: “My writing process starts with research and brainstorming. I like to take some time to really understand the topic, think of different angles to approach it from, and come up with a few ideas for how to structure the piece. Once I have a plan in place, I start drafting. Depending on the project, I might write the entire article in one sitting or break it up into smaller chunks so that I can focus on each section more thoroughly. After I’m done with the first draft, I go through and edit it several times until I’m satisfied with the result. Then I review the work with a critical eye to make sure all the facts are accurate and the tone is consistent throughout.”

2. How do you come up with ideas for stories and characters?

Interviewers want to understand your creative process and get a sense of how you approach your craft. They may also want to know about any research you do for your stories, as well as how you handle feedback from editors and readers. This question also gives you an opportunity to show off your unique perspective and explain how it contributes to your writing.

You should be prepared to explain your creative process in detail. Talk about how you come up with ideas and characters, as well as any research or brainstorming techniques you use. If you have a unique approach to writing, such as using real-life experiences or drawing inspiration from other authors, make sure to mention that. You can also talk about how you handle feedback from editors and readers and how it has helped shape your work.

Example: “When I’m coming up with ideas for stories and characters, I like to start by brainstorming on paper. I find it helpful to write down my initial ideas in a stream-of-consciousness style and then go back through them and refine them later. I also have a few trusted mentors who read my work before I submit it to publishers, which helps me make sure that I’m presenting the best version of my writing. One time, they asked me to rewrite an entire section of one of my stories because they felt it was too slow and didn’t move the plot forward enough. It was difficult to accept their critique at first, but after going through several drafts, I realized that it was necessary to improve the overall quality of the story. Now, when I get feedback from editors, I take it as an opportunity to make my work even better.”

3. Describe a time when you had to revise a piece of work significantly.

Writing is a highly creative process, but it’s also a process of revision and editing. Authors are expected to go through multiple drafts of their work, sometimes making significant changes. Interviewers want to know that you’re able to accept constructive criticism and use it to make your work better. They’re also looking for evidence that you have the ability to revise and refine your writing until it’s the best it can be.

Talk about a time when you had to make significant changes to a piece of work. Describe the process you went through and how you worked with your editor or mentor to revise it. Explain why the changes were necessary, and how they improved the overall quality of the work. Finally, be sure to mention any lessons you learned from the experience that will help you in future writing projects.

Example: “I recently had to go through a major revision of a short story I was writing for a literary magazine. My editor pointed out several areas where the narrative could be improved, and I worked closely with her over the course of two weeks to make sure every detail was perfect. I learned a lot about how to craft a compelling story during this process, and it also taught me the value of patience and perseverance when revising my work. Thanks to these changes, the final version of the story was much more powerful than the original draft.”

4. Are there any particular authors or books that have influenced your writing style?

For writers, this question can be especially important because it gives them insight into what inspires you and what kind of writing you’re drawn to. It also gives them a sense of the types of stories you might write in the future. This is especially important for authors who are just starting out, as they may not have a long list of publications.

Before the interview, think about which authors have had an impact on your writing style. It’s also a good idea to read some of their works so that you can talk in detail about why they have influenced you and how they have shaped your writing. Be sure to mention any awards or recognition that these authors have received as well. Finally, if there is a particular book that has been particularly influential for you, be sure to discuss it in detail.

Example: “My writing style has been heavily influenced by authors like J.K. Rowling, Stephen King, and Margaret Atwood. I’ve read many of their books multiple times and have been inspired by the way they craft stories that captivate readers. In particular, I look to Rowling for her vivid characters and creative world-building techniques, King for his ability to create suspenseful plots, and Atwood for her unique blend of fantasy and realism. The book that had the most influence on me was definitely Harry Potter and the Philosopher’s Stone. It showed me how powerful a story can be when it is well-crafted and full of imagination.”

5. Do you prefer to write alone or collaborate with other writers?

Writing is a solitary process, but many authors find it helpful to work with other writers in their field or in the same genre. Knowing how you prefer to collaborate or work alone can give the interviewer insight into your writing process and how you might fit into a team or a specific project.

This question is best answered by discussing your own experience and preferences. Talk about the types of collaboration you’ve done in the past, such as working with an editor or a writing group. If you prefer to work alone, explain why and how it helps you stay focused and productive. You can also discuss any processes you have for getting feedback from peers or mentors before submitting work.

Example: “I prefer to write alone, but I’m always open to collaboration. In the past, I’ve worked with an editor and a writing group, which has been incredibly helpful in terms of honing my craft and getting feedback on my work. I also have several peers who I trust to read my pieces before submission, which helps me refine them even further. Ultimately, I think it’s important for writers to be flexible and willing to collaborate if necessary—but I find that I can stay most focused when I’m working alone.”

6. What strategies do you use to stay motivated and focused while writing?

Writing can be a difficult and lonely job, and if you’re a potential hire, your interviewer will want to know how you stay motivated and focused. Do you have a strict writing routine? Do you use a specific type of software to organize your thoughts? How often do you take breaks? What do you do when you feel stuck? Your answers to these questions can tell a lot about your work ethic and your ability to stay motivated and organized.

Talk about your writing process and the strategies you use to stay motivated. For example, do you have a strict writing schedule that you follow? Do you prefer to work in short bursts or long stretches? How do you break up your day? What kind of environment do you find most conducive to writing? Are there any specific tools that you use to help organize your thoughts and ideas? Do you take regular breaks throughout the day? What do you do when you feel stuck?

Example: “I have a very structured writing routine that helps keep me motivated and focused. Every morning I start by setting aside time for research, followed by an hour of outlining my ideas before actually beginning the writing process. I find this helps to organize my thoughts and keeps me on track throughout the day. When I feel stuck or uninspired, I take a break from writing and focus on something else like reading, going for a walk, or even just doing some housework. This helps me clear my head and come back with fresh eyes and new ideas. Additionally, I use tools like Scrivener and Evernote to help keep all my notes and drafts organized so that I can easily refer back to them when needed.”

7. How do you handle writer’s block?

Writing can be an incredibly difficult job, and this question is a great way to find out how the potential hire deals with the inevitable moments when the words don’t seem to want to come. Do they take a break? How do they break through the block? Do they have any special techniques or processes they follow to get back on track? It’s a great question to gauge their creativity and problem-solving skills.

Everyone has different ways of dealing with writer’s block, so there is no one right answer here. Talk about the strategies you use to get back on track. Do you take a break and come back to it later? Do you brainstorm ideas or talk out loud? Do you read other authors for inspiration? Have you ever tried writing in a different format or style? Share your process and how it works for you.

Example: “When I’m feeling stuck, my first step is to take a break and do something completely unrelated. That could mean going for a walk or doing some yoga or even just getting up from my desk and making myself a cup of tea. Once I’ve given my mind some time to rest, I find that the ideas start flowing again. I also like to talk out loud about what I’m trying to write—it helps me sort through the jumble in my head and see where I need to go next. Finally, I often look to other authors whose work I admire for inspiration. Reading their words usually sparks new ideas and gets my creative juices flowing.”

8. What techniques do you use to ensure the accuracy of facts in your work?

Accuracy of facts is essential for authors, especially when working with nonfiction. Interviewers want to know if you have a process for ensuring the accuracy of facts in your writing. They may also be interested in seeing how you conduct research and use that to inform your writing in a way that is both accurate and creative.

You should be prepared to discuss the techniques you use for fact-checking, such as double-checking sources, using multiple sources and cross-referencing information. You can also talk about how you vet your sources and ensure that they are reliable and trustworthy. Additionally, it’s important to mention any additional research or verification methods you use to make sure the facts in your work are correct.

Example: “I take accuracy very seriously and I have a few techniques I use to ensure that the facts in my work are accurate. I always double-check my sources and make sure that I am using reliable and trustworthy sources. Additionally, I make sure to cross-reference any information I find with other sources to verify accuracy. I also make sure to vet my sources to ensure that the information I am using is up-to-date and relevant. Finally, I always take the time to do additional research if there is any doubt about the accuracy of a fact or piece of information.”

9. How do you approach research for your writing projects?

Writing is a craft, and that craft requires research. Authors must have the ability to find reliable resources and information to support their writing and create a cohesive story. Interviewers want to know that you have the research skills and techniques to back up the claims you make in your writing, and this question is a way to gauge your approach.

Talk about your research methods and the resources you use. Do you prefer to read books or conduct interviews? Are there any online databases or tools that you use for finding information? Explain how you go about verifying the accuracy of your sources, such as using multiple sources to cross-check facts or double-checking quotes with a source. You can also mention any techniques you have for organizing your research so it’s easy to find when you need it.

Example: “When I’m researching for a writing project, I like to start by reading books and articles on the subject. I’ll look for primary sources, like interviews with experts or eyewitness accounts, to get a firsthand perspective. I also use online databases like JSTOR and Google Scholar to find scholarly articles and research papers. I’m very meticulous when it comes to fact-checking, so I make sure to always double-check quotes and information with multiple sources. I also like to keep my research organized, so I use a spreadsheet to track my sources and notes.”

10. How do you balance creative freedom with meeting deadlines?

Writing can be a very personal and creative endeavor, but there are still deadlines and expectations to be met. Interviewers want to make sure you can balance the two. Can you come up with interesting and engaging stories while still meeting the deadlines set by your publisher? Can you take critiques and feedback without sacrificing your vision? These are all important questions to answer.

Start by talking about how you prioritize tasks and manage your time. Talk about any tools or techniques you use to stay organized and on track. Then, explain how you can take feedback from editors and publishers without compromising your creative vision. You could also talk about how you keep yourself motivated when faced with tight deadlines or challenging topics. Finally, discuss the importance of taking breaks and staying inspired in order to maintain a healthy balance between creativity and productivity.

Example: “I’m a very organized person, so I make sure to break down my writing tasks into manageable chunks and prioritize the most important tasks first. I also use a calendar to stay on track and ensure that I’m meeting my deadlines. As for balancing creative freedom and meeting deadlines, I make sure to take time to step away from my work and think creatively. I also take feedback from editors and publishers constructively, and use it as an opportunity to refine my work and make sure it meets the standards of the publication. I’m also constantly looking for new sources of inspiration, whether it’s reading books, taking walks, or talking to people, in order to stay creative and motivated. Ultimately, I believe that balancing creative freedom and meeting deadlines is possible when you stay organized and stay inspired.”

11. What challenges have you faced as an author, and how did you overcome them?

Writing can be a difficult and time-consuming process, and authors often need to be creative and resilient in order to get their work done. Interviewers want to know that you’re able to handle the challenge of writing, that you’re able to stay motivated, and that you’re able to cope with the inevitable rejections and criticism that come with being an author. They want to know that you’re able to persist and persevere, no matter what obstacles come your way.

Talk about a specific challenge you faced as an author and how you overcame it. This could be anything from dealing with writer’s block to finding the right publisher or agent for your work. Explain what steps you took to overcome this obstacle, such as setting yourself deadlines, researching potential publishers, or talking to other authors who have experienced similar challenges. Show that you are able to persist and stay motivated in the face of adversity.

Example: “One of the biggest challenges I’ve faced as an author has been finding the right publisher for my work. After sending out dozens of query letters and getting little response, I decided to take a more proactive approach. I began researching small presses and literary agents and reading up on the publishing industry. I also started attending conferences and networking with other authors to try to get insights into the process. Eventually, I found the perfect publisher for my book, and it was all thanks to my persistence and willingness to learn.”

12. How do you handle criticism of your work?

Writing is a creative process and can be a subjective experience, so criticism is inevitable. It’s important for a potential employer to know how you handle criticism, both positive and negative. This question is meant to gauge your ability to take feedback and use it in a constructive way. It also shows how you handle criticism in a professional setting, which is a valuable skill for an author to have.

The best way to answer this question is by being honest and open about how you handle criticism. Talk about how you use the feedback to improve your work, as well as any strategies you’ve developed for dealing with criticism in a positive way. You can also talk about how you take both positive and negative criticism into account when revising your work, and how you strive to make sure that every piece of writing you produce is the best it can be.

Example: “I take criticism of my work very seriously. I always strive to produce the best writing I can, so I take any kind of feedback into account when revising my work. I take the time to think through the criticisms and consider how best to apply them to make my work better. I also try to remain open-minded and look for any underlying messages in the criticism. I’m always looking to improve my writing and use criticism as an opportunity to do that, while also maintaining a positive attitude.”

13. What are some of the most important lessons you’ve learned about writing?

Writing is a complex craft, and it takes time and practice to master. Interviewers want to know that you’ve taken the time to learn the basics of writing, such as grammar, punctuation, and structure, as well as the more subtle aspects of storytelling, such as characterization, plot development, and theme. Answering this question shows that you’re serious about writing and have taken the time to learn the fundamentals.

This is a great opportunity to show off your knowledge of writing. Talk about the basics, such as grammar and punctuation, but also make sure to mention more advanced topics like characterization, plot development, and theme. You can also discuss how you’ve learned from other authors by studying their work or attending workshops or seminars. Finally, talk about how you apply these lessons in your own writing—this shows that you understand them on a deeper level.

Example: “I’ve learned a lot about writing over the years, from the basics of grammar and punctuation to more advanced topics such as characterization, plot development, and theme. I’ve also attended workshops and read books by experienced authors to learn from their techniques. I’ve found that the key to good writing is to focus on the details—to make sure that every sentence is effective and that the story flows naturally. I also strive to create characters that readers can identify with, and to create a plot that will keep them engaged. All of these lessons have been invaluable to me as an author, and I apply them to my writing every day.”

14. How do you decide which topics to write about?

This is an important question to ask because an author’s work should be well-researched and thoughtful. It’s not always easy to come up with creative and engaging topics, so the interviewer wants to know that you’re capable of doing the necessary research and preparation to write about a subject in a meaningful way. They also want to know that you’re able to identify topics that will be interesting and relevant to readers.

Start by talking about the research process you use to come up with ideas. You can discuss how you look for current trends in your industry, read books and articles on related topics, or talk to experts in the field. It’s also important to mention that you consider what readers will be interested in—you may even have a specific audience in mind when you write. Finally, make sure to emphasize that you always strive to provide accurate information and engaging stories.

Example: “I start by reading industry news and keeping up with current trends. I also spend time researching topics that I’m interested in, and I look for stories that I think will be interesting to my readers. I also talk to experts and people in the industry to get their perspectives and insights. I’m always looking for new angles and fresh approaches to topics, and I strive to provide accurate and engaging content.”

15. How do you keep track of all the details in your stories?

Writing can be a complex process, and it’s important for an interviewer to make sure that you’re able to keep track of all the details in your stories. It’s also important to make sure that you’re organized and that you’re able to keep track of deadlines and other important milestones in the writing process. This question is designed to help the interviewer understand your organizational skills and how you handle the details of your stories.

Talk about the methods you use to keep track of all the details in your stories. You can mention how you create outlines or timelines, how you take notes while writing, and how you review your work for accuracy. If you have experience using specific software programs or apps that help with organization, feel free to share those as well. Additionally, talk about any organizational strategies that you have developed over time which help you stay on top of deadlines, manage multiple projects at once, etc.

Example: “I like to use a combination of tools and strategies to keep track of all the details in my stories. I use outlines to structure my stories and make sure that I’m not missing any important details. I also use a timeline to help me keep track of deadlines and ensure that all the details are in the right place. I also like to take notes while I’m writing so I can remember any ideas that I have and keep track of any research I need to do. Finally, I make sure to review my work carefully to ensure that all the details are accurate and that I’m not overlooking any important plot points.”

16. What do you think makes a good story?

Interviewers want to get a sense of your writing style and your understanding of the craft of writing. This question allows you to show off your knowledge of storytelling and your ability to articulate what makes a story good. It also provides an opportunity to discuss your writing style and the types of stories you like to tell.

Start by discussing the elements that make a story great. Talk about how characters, plot, setting, and theme all contribute to a good story. Focus on what you think makes a story memorable and engaging. You can also talk about your own writing style and discuss why you think it works for the type of stories you like to write. Finally, provide examples from literature or film of stories that have stayed with you and explain why they resonated with you.

Example: “For me, a good story has to be engaging, memorable, and meaningful. Characters are an essential part of any story, and I like to create characters that are complex and relatable. I also think that setting is important and can add a lot to a story. I also believe that a good story should have a strong theme that resonates with readers. I like to write stories that explore human emotions and relationships, and I think that’s what makes my stories memorable and engaging. I think the best stories are the ones that stay with you long after you’ve read them, and that’s what I strive for in my own work.”

17. How do you make sure your writing appeals to a wide audience?

Writing is an art, but it’s also a business. Hiring managers want to make sure you’re aware that the success of your work depends on its ability to reach a large audience. They’ll want to know how you plan to do this, from researching what types of stories readers are interested in to utilizing various marketing strategies.

Your answer should demonstrate your understanding of the importance of audience appeal and how you can ensure it. Talk about any research you’ve done to understand what kind of stories readers are looking for, as well as any marketing strategies you’ve used or plan to use to reach a wider audience. You can also discuss any experience you have with using social media or other platforms to promote your work. Finally, emphasize that you understand the importance of creating quality content that resonates with readers.

Example: “I understand that writing is a business, and the success of my work is ultimately determined by its ability to reach an audience. To make sure my writing appeals to a wide audience, I do extensive research on what kind of stories readers are looking for. I also utilize various marketing strategies, such as using social media and other platforms to promote my work, to ensure that my stories reach as many people as possible. Additionally, I make sure to create quality content that resonates with readers, so that they will be more likely to share my work with others.”

18. How do you market yourself and your work?

Authors need to be able to market their work, both online and in person. This question is designed to gauge your awareness of how to get your work out there and how to make it seen. Interviewers want to know that you have a plan for getting your work in front of the right people, and that you’re aware of the marketing tools available to you.

Talk about the different marketing techniques you’ve used or plan to use. This could include things like social media campaigns, creating a website and blog, attending book signings and conferences, using email newsletters, and leveraging your network of contacts. You can also talk about how you measure success with each technique, such as tracking page views, clicks, or sales. Be sure to mention any successes you’ve had in the past, such as increased sales or recognition from peers or industry experts.

Example: “I’m always looking for new and creative ways to get my work in front of the right people. I have a website and blog where I post my work, and I use social media to promote it. I also attend book signings and conferences to meet new people and to network. I also use email newsletters to stay in touch with my readers and to let them know about upcoming projects. I also leverage my network of contacts to spread the word about my work. I measure success by tracking page views, clicks, and sales. I’ve had some success in the past, such as increased sales and recognition from peers and industry experts. I’m always looking for new ways to market my work, and I’m always open to feedback and suggestions.”

19. What advice would you give to aspiring authors?

Interviewers want to know how much you know about the craft of writing and how passionate you are about the field. They may also be interested in hearing about any unique methods or techniques you use to craft a story. This question could also be asked to gauge your level of enthusiasm for the profession and to see if your advice could help other writers.

Your answer should be tailored to the specific position you are interviewing for, but some general advice could include: reading widely in your chosen genre or subject matter; writing regularly and consistently; joining a critique group; attending conferences and workshops; developing an online presence; building relationships with other authors and editors; and always striving to improve your craft. Additionally, emphasize that aspiring authors must have patience and perseverance, as it can take years of hard work before seeing success.

Example: “My advice to aspiring authors is to read widely in their chosen genre or subject matter, write regularly and consistently, join a critique group, attend conferences and workshops, develop an online presence, and build relationships with other authors and editors. It’s also important to have patience and perseverance, as it can take years of hard work before seeing success. As a successful author, I’m passionate about helping other writers reach their goals. I’m always willing to share my experiences and give advice to aspiring authors whenever I can. I also believe in the power of collaboration and have a strong network of fellow authors that I’ve built over the years.”

20. What do you think will be the biggest challenge facing authors in 2022 and beyond?

Authors have to stay on top of a lot of changes in the industry, whether it’s new publishing platforms, technological advances, or shifts in the way readers consume content. It’s important for potential employers to know that you’re aware of these changes and can adapt to them. This question will give them a sense of your ability to think critically about the future of the industry.

To answer this question, you’ll want to consider the current trends in publishing and how they might evolve over the next couple of years. For example, you could talk about how digital platforms have disrupted traditional publishing models and how authors need to be aware of that when marketing their work. You could also discuss the challenge of staying relevant with readers as technology advances, or the difficulty of finding an audience in a crowded market. Whatever your response, make sure it’s backed up by research and examples.

Example: “I think the biggest challenge facing authors in 2022 and beyond will be staying competitive in the digital age. As more books are published each year, it’s becoming more difficult for authors to stand out and get noticed. Authors need to be aware of the latest trends and technologies, and be willing to take risks to stay ahead of the curve. This means utilizing digital platforms, leveraging social media, and experimenting with new formats. It also means being open to feedback and adapting their work accordingly. Authors who are able to do this will be able to find success in the changing landscape of publishing.”

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Book description

Take the fear out of your interview and never be stuck for the right answer to even the toughest questions with The Interview Question and Answer Book .

The job market is fierce, competition has never been greater and it’s vital that you can grab every opportunity for competitive advantage and stay one step ahead. Interviewers are looking for people who really stand out, and here's your chance to be different from the rest.

Written by one of the UK’s leading careers experts and bestselling author of The Interview Book , this definitive guide to questions and answers encourages every job-hunter to think on your feet and express your individuality whilst supplying ideal responses to interview questions so that you’re seen as the ideal candidate for the job.

Table of contents

  • Acknowledgements
  • About the author
  • Introduction
  • 1. Essential principles
  • 2. The top 10 interview questions
  • 3. Fifty more classic questions: be prepared
  • 4. The top 25 tough questions: taking the heat
  • 5. Fifty less common questions: forewarned is forearmed
  • 6. Ending the interview: your own questions
  • 7. The 15 most common interview mistakes – and how to avoid them!
  • Further reading and resources
  • Index of questions

Product information

  • Title: The Interview Question & Answer Book
  • Author(s): James Innes
  • Release date: June 2013
  • Publisher(s): Pearson Business
  • ISBN: 9780273781561

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fun author interview questions

  • What is your writing process like? …
  • What do you need in your writing space to help you stay focused?
  • If you were to write a spin-off about a side character, which would you pick?
  • If you could spend a day with another popular author, whom would you choose?

It’s 7:14 in the morning and I just shot off an email of questions for an author interview for Connilyn Cossette who’s book, A Light on the Hill , is coming out February 6th. Times like this make me feel like a legit blogger. And a writer. Ya know, getting the writing work done before going out and jetting off to my non-writing job. (And when I say jetting, I actually mean driving very slowly and taking the long way around cause roads are icy.)

Recently I’ve been thinking about author interviews, and how it can be slightly annoying as an author when I get the same questions over and over and over again. Therefore I thought it would be fun to share with y’all 30 unique questions to ask during author interviews. But really, I do like the traditional questions as well, so I like having a mixture of normal and unique.

Unique Author Interview Questions {Part 1}

Authors are tired of getting the same questions at every interview. They’ve answered them a hundred times and will not be excited to answer them yet again. I can tell you exactly the questions writers get time and time again at every book reading and interview:

My list below of interview questions are fantastic, but if those 50 aren’t enough, I would suggest you go here to see examples of fantastic interviews, and maybe pick up a few more good questions:

Now, if you’re a writer, I would suggest also reading my post, “12 Steps to Write a Bestselling Novel.”

But if you haven’t read their book yet, this is the next best thing: I’ve compiled a list of good questions for authors that are surprising and unique. I guarantee that these questions will surprise them for a second, and make them think about their answer.

Now, of course, the best question for a writer is one based on their book . Every author is excited to talk about their most recent book, or the big one they published a few years back. If you have a good question about a character or a plot point or the process of creating that book, they will be overjoyed to hear it.

Interview Questions About Writing

  • What inspired you to start writing?
  • How long have you been writing?
  • When did you start writing?
  • Have you always wanted to be a writer?
  • What advice would you give a new writer, someone just starting out?
  • How do you handle writer’s block?
  • What, in your opinion, are the most important elements of good writing?
  • What comes first, the plot or characters?
  • How do you develop your plot and characters?
  • How do you come up with the titles to your books?
  • When did you first consider yourself a writer?
  • Describe your writing space.
  • What time of the day do you usually write?
  • Describe a typical writing day.
  • What is the most difficult part about writing for you?
  • What is your work schedule like when you are writing?
  • What would you say is your most interesting writing quirk?
  • Do you hear from your readers much? What do they say?
  • How do you do research for your books?
  • What are the tools of the trade?
  • What does success mean to you? What is the definition of success?
  • Is writing your full-time career? Or would you like it to be?
  • On a typical day, how much time do you spend writing?
  • Are you on social media and can your readers interact with you?
  • When you’re writing an emotionally draining (or sexy, or sad, etc) scene, how do you get in the mood?
  • Writing can be an emotionally draining and stressful pursuit. Any tips for aspiring writers?
  • How do you deal with emotional impact of a book (on yourself) as you are writing the story?
  • How do you handle literary criticism?
  • How do you deal with poor reviews? (be cautious with these type of questions)
  • How much ‘world building’ takes place before you start writing?
  • Is there lots to do before you drive in and start writing the story?
  • When writing a series how do you keep things fresh, for both your readers and also yourself?
  • What was your favourite part, and your least favourite part, of the publishing journey?
  • Do you find it more challenging to write the first book in a series or to write the subsequent novels?
  • Describe your perfect book hero or heroine.

More often than not, people fail to understand the importance of the right questions but trust me the right interview questions can help you position and define your personal brand and your book better.

If you are an author who wants to position his/her personal brand and book the right way through interviews/coverages than in that case, you need to pick the right interview questions.

You may be wondering what sort of questions you shall consider for the coverage or an interview. To give you an idea, I have gathered the top interview questions that you should surely consider for promoting your book and your personal brand through an interview on digital space.

Some Author Interview Questions

When you want to interview authors for your blog or podcast, you’ll need to prepare for the interview. It’ll require you to know the right set of questions to ask that will attract the right audience. These questions, when asked strategically, will make your interview lively.

Furthermore, such interview questions are not only useful for bloggers but also for authors. The authors who are the significant guests of the interview should also be prepared. It helps to avoid errors and to ensure that the interview goes smoothly.

Also, interview questions are helpful for authors who want to work at a publishing company or other related agencies. Some of these questions are listed below.

  • When should someone be regarded as a writer?
  • What differentiates an author from a writer?
  • What’s your experience with writer’s block?
  • How do you handle negative reviews on your book?
  • What part of your writing process is the hardest?
  • What’s your advice for upcoming authors?
  • Which elements of writing are the most important to you?
  • How do you build up your characters and plot?
  • Between your plot and your characters, which is essential to you? Why?
  • Why did you become a writer?
  • When did you become an author?
  • Do social media play a role for you as an author?
  • What’s your experience with publishing your book?
  • What would you tell an author that wants to publish his first book?
  • How many books have you written so far?
  • What’s your favorite book among the ones you’ve written?
  • Which of your books did you find very difficult to write?
  • Which part of your book gave you the most challenging time?
  • Which of your books did you have the most fun writing?
  • Which characters do you relate with easily? Why?
  • What did you leave out in the final draft of your book?
  • What are you trying to achieve with your book?
  • Do you go for book tours?
  • What is the favorite place you conducted research?
  • Can you share a bit about your next book?
  • Has your book gone through any significant change since the first draft?
  • To what extent is your book realistic?
  • What inspires your cover designs?
  • What beliefs is your book challenging?
  • What was your inspiration for the idea?
  • How long was your research for the book?
  • How did professional editing influence the development of your book?
  • Which scene was the most difficult? Why?
  • Are there characters in your books that have similarities with you or people you know?
  • What time did you finish writing this book?
  • What inspired the title of your book?
  • Is your main character someone you would get along with usually?
  • Do you develop your characters as you write, or you already know them before you start writing?
  • What helps you focus while writing?
  • Which famous author is your best?
  • How is your writing space?
  • Have you ever traveled to gather more research for your book?
  • What helps you relax while writing?
  • What is your favorite way of taking a break after writing?
  • What risks have you taken on your journey as an author? Did any of them pay off?
  • Do you write with music? What’s your favorite one?
  • Which actors do you think would play your characters if your book is made a movie?
  • Have you written a favorite character that died at the end?
  • What motivated you to become a writer?
  • What’s the average time that you spend writing a book?
  • Where do you get ideas for your books?
  • When was your first book published?
  • What surprised you the most while writing and publishing your books?
  • Have all the books you’ve written been published?
  • Is your family supportive of your writing? What do they think of it?
  • What do you think will make a person a better writer?
  • Do your readers contact you? What do they say?
  • What book genre is your favorite? Why?
  • If you have an opportunity to write a different genre of book, which will it be?
  • What do you think makes a story spectacular?
  • Can you share a bit of your current work?
  • What’s the most interesting twist in your book?
  • How do you schedule your time while writing?
  • Did you consider using a pseudonym when you write?
  • What time of the day do you write the most?
  • What are the tools of an author?
  • Do you find writing fascinating, exhaustive, or both?
  • What is the best channel for marketing your books?
  • How would you define success as an author?
  • Are you a full-time writer? Why?
  • How do you bring emotion into your scenes?
  • What advice will you give an aspiring writer?
  • What is your biggest challenge when marketing your book?
  • Describe your ideal reader.
  • Who is your most influential audience?
  • Who are you when you’re not writing?
  • What do you think should change or improve in the publishing industry?
  • What type of publishing do you use the most? Why?
  • What do you think can boost or destroy a writing career?
  • Have you ever experienced reader’s block? How did you overcome it?
  • Have you ever felt frustrated with writing? Why?
  • Do you prefer to write what you feel readers want or what you find inspiring?
  • Can a person who doesn’t feel emotions firmly stand a chance of being a good writer?
  • Does building relationships with other authors improve your writing skills? How?
  • What communities should a writer join?
  • Do you have unfinished books? How many?
  • Which books did you enjoy reading when growing up?
  • Who is your biggest supporter?
  • Have you ever felt overwhelmed by your work? Describe it.
  • Do you prefer print books, audiobooks, or e-books? Why?
  • Which of your hobbies do you think will surprise your readers?
  • How do you determine the names of your characters?
  • Do you recommend any writing blogs?
  • What books do you reading now? Which authors are influencing your choice?
  • What inspired the setting for your book?
  • What inspiration makes you get out of bed every morning?
  • Do you have any collections apart from your library?
  • How do you brainstorm ideas during your writing process?
  • What would you consider the best advice you’ve ever received?
  • What does the title of your book mean?
  • Are you currently working on any books?
  • What is your favorite writing style?
  • Do you prefer typing on a computer or writing with a pen? Why?
  • Which do you prefer, writing when you’re alone or in public? Why?
  • Do you write based on goals, or whenever you’re inspired?
  • What takes most of your effort when writing?
  • What will you like your readers to know?
  • What’s your plan? Where do you see yourself in the next five years?
  • Have you ever considered writing with another author?
  • What’s the hardest thing about writing a character of the opposite sex?
  • How’s it like working with an agent? What’s your advice for those looking for one?
  • Which marketing strategies have been helpful so far?

What are good interview questions for an author?

  • When did you first realize you wanted to be a writer?
  • How long does it take you to write a book?
  • What is your work schedule like when you’re writing?
  • What would you say is your interesting writing quirk?
  • How do books get published?

What are some good interview questions for fun?

  • Why are manholes round?
  • If you were a tree, what kind would you be and why?
  • What two nonessential items would you want if you were shipwrecked on a deserted island?
  • What was the last gift you gave someone?
  • If you could compare yourself to an animal, what would it be and why?

How do you conduct an author interview?

  • Stop Focusing On Yourself. It’s easy to worry about low sales, writer’s block and lost motivation. …
  • Shift The Focus. …
  • Do Your Research. …
  • Make Your Subject Look Like a Rock Star. …
  • Last Pointers.

What are some good questions to ask about a story?

  • How did the author begin the story? …
  • What is the main problem in the story? …
  • What challenges do the characters meet in the story? …
  • What choices did the characters have?
  • How does the choices the characters make affect the other characters and the story?
  • What do you think is the most important part of the book?

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President Biden made remarks at the White House on the Special Counsel’s report on classified documents. He highlighted the differences between the investigations into himself and former President Trump , and then answered questions from reporters. He addressed the report’s labeling him a “well-meaning, elderly man with a poor memory” saying with emotion, “I am well-meaning, and I’m an elderly man, and I know what the hell I’m doing.” close

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Interview highlights

Reexamining the 'upskirt decade' and the public ridicule of female pop stars.

Headshot of Scott Detrow, 2018

Scott Detrow

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Sarah Handel at NPR headquarters in Washington, D.C., November 7, 2018. (photo by Allison Shelley)

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interview book question

Britney Spears, Taylor Swift and Janet Jackson — three pop icons with varying experiences in the public eye. Brenda Chase/Getty Images; Valerie Macon/AFP via Getty Images; Kevin Winter/ImageDirect hide caption

Britney Spears, Taylor Swift and Janet Jackson — three pop icons with varying experiences in the public eye.

Twenty years ago this month, a wardrobe malfunction in the Super Bowl halftime show caused a global meltdown.

If you were alive in 2004, you probably remember Justin Timberlake reaching across Janet Jackson's chest, pulling off one of the cups of her top and exposing her breast to millions of viewers.

The incident and the furor that followed became known as Nipplegate. Jackson took almost all the blame for what happened that night and the moral outrage that followed.

Nipplegate is one of several moments, and Jackson is one of several famous women, that author Sarah Ditum takes a critical look at in her new book, Toxic: Women, Fame, and the Tabloid 2000s .

It's a reassessment of a time when popular culture policed, ridiculed and even destroyed a variety of women in the public eye — women like Janet Jackson and Britney Spears.

Ditum spoke with All Things Considered host Scott Detrow about the unique moment in time and how society has reckoned with it since.

interview book question

Janet Jackson and Justin Timberlake perform at the Super Bowl halftime show in 2004. Jeff Haynes/AFP via Getty Images hide caption

Janet Jackson and Justin Timberlake perform at the Super Bowl halftime show in 2004.

This interview has been lightly edited for length and clarity.

Scott Detrow: You focus on celebrity pop culture of the aughts, with a little bit of the late '90s and early teens thrown in as well, through the lens of nine different women. And you call this period of time the Upskirt Decade. Why did you do that?

Sarah Ditum: Because I think of the upskirt tabloid photo as — and this is a deservedly harsh judgment on that period — but as the kind of signature cultural product of that era.

It's something that couldn't really exist before, because in order to have a market in upskirt pictures, you have to have the kind of camera technology that paparazzi were able to use, which is small, light, point-and-click digital cameras which can take lots of images, where you can really get down in the gutter and point your camera directly up a woman's skirt to get that picture.

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Our 2024 grammys recap.

And you also have to have a voracious, no-holds-barred kind of gossip media which is willing to publish that material. And that was something that the internet made possible.

So you have to have those two things coming together. And at the same time, you have to have the absence of a legal framework that says this kind of material is intrusive and illegal and an invasion of privacy. And it was very shocking to revisit this period of time and realize how few guardrails there were, not just legally but also in terms of basic behavioral standards around what was and wasn't considered publishable.

Detrow: And then there's one thing you didn't mention there, but it's a big theme of your book, and it's the tone of the coverage. Because paparazzi would take these pictures, websites would publish them, and then the tone of the coverage would be, "There's Britney again, showing herself for all to see." You know, framing these women as villains, basically, for seeking fame and seeking our attention. And whatever problem they were facing at that moment was often framed as cosmic justice for them.

interview book question

Britney Spears performs in New York in 2001. Gabe Palacio/Getty Images hide caption

Ditum: Right. And the tenor of the commentary that went alongside these very intrusive pictures was very much, "They're doing it on purpose. They want to be looked at. ... They're the ones who are inflicting this on us."

Detrow: So a lot of the theme of this era was the rules of the internet being written in real time and people not fully understanding them until they were living in them. And toward the end of the book, you compare a lot of the women that it focuses on with Taylor Swift.

You point out she's only a few years younger than some of the people in this book, but by the time she becomes famous, the rules of the internet are written, and she knew what they were, and she knew how to operate in them. How much of a difference does that make for Taylor Swift?

Ditum: It makes an enormous difference. I think there are two kind of dividing lines that I would draw among the women in my book in terms of how things turned out for them. One of them is how young they were when they became famous. And I think becoming famous when you're a child is awful and difficult, whoever it happens to and in whatever era it happens.

interview book question

Taylor Swift at the Grammy Awards on Feb. 4. Robyn Beck/AFP via Getty Images hide caption

Taylor Swift at the Grammy Awards on Feb. 4.

The other one is where they were in relation to the internet. So, for example, Kim Kardashian, she is the same age pretty much as Paris Hilton. But when Kim starts to get famous, the internet has already been established. So she has a Myspace before she starts to get famous, the same as Taylor Swift actually had a Myspace early on, and that was part of the Taylor Swift story in the early part of her career, that she was a Myspace musician.

And I think you look at these figures who have the ability to shape their own presence on the internet and who have the ability to craft their fame, rather than have it crafted for them. And that's an incredible shift in power in celebrity. And you look now at the way top-tier celebrities operate, and they are able to control everything. They have a direct line to their fans via social media. They don't have to deal with reporters if they don't want to, if they aren't going to get favorable coverage.

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Taylor Swift is never going to have to sit down and do the excruciating equivalent of Britney talking to Diane Sawyer about her sex life. That's unthinkable.

Detrow: You're thinking through ways that things didn't age that well at all. And I'm wondering if this has given you a different point of view on current events, current pop culture. Are there things that you're seeing play out and you're thinking, "This is probably not going to look good 10 or 20 years down the line?"

Ditum: Yeah, definitely. A lot of the misogyny I write about that was endemic in mainstream media, you don't see that in "reputable" outlets anymore, but you do still find it online in social media.

Megan Thee Stallion, Tory Lanez and the impact of misogynoir on rap

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Megan thee stallion, tory lanez and the impact of misogynoir on rap.

So if, for example, any listeners followed Megan Thee Stallion's testimony in the trial of Tory Lanez for shooting her in the foot, the mainstream coverage of that was correctly very sympathetic to her as a victim of violence. A lot of the social media reaction, though, was extremely hostile to her.

You still have a massive problem with revenge porn. We don't have a celebrity sex-tape economy anymore, but we do have the issue of largely men nonconsensually sharing images, the intimate images of partners. And I think that's something that is probably going to look incredibly queasy in retrospect when it's realized how endemic that actually was as a problem.

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Prince Harry on visiting King Charles after cancer diagnosis: 'I love my family'

VIDEO: Prince Harry talks seeing King Charles amid cancer battle: ‘I love my family’

Prince Harry, the Duke of Sussex , is speaking out about two of his biggest passions: his family and the Invictus Games , the Paralympic-style competition for wounded service members that he founded one decade ago.

Harry, 39, traveled to Whistler, British Columbia, the site of the 2025 Invictus Games, just one week after flying from California to London to visit his father, King Charles III, who was recently diagnosed with an undisclosed type of cancer.

Harry told ABC News' Will Reeve in an interview for "Good Morning America " that he spoke with his father about his diagnosis, which was announced publicly on Feb. 5, and quickly made a plan to see him in person.

"I jumped on a plane and went to go see him as soon as I could," Harry told Reeve in Whistler, as they toured the site of next year's Invictus Games. "Look, I love my family. The fact that I was able to get on a plane and go and see him and spend any time with him, I’m grateful for that."

interview book question

Harry, who declined to comment further on his father's diagnosis, added that he hopes to see Charles again soon, saying, "I’ve got other trips planned that will take me through the U.K., or back to the U.K., and so I’ll stop in and see my family as much as I can."

The duke had not seen his 75-year-old father since the king's coronation last May at Westminster Abbey.

Harry reportedly met with Charles, who has since begun cancer treatment, for less than an hour on Feb. 6, and stayed overnight in a hotel before departing the next day from London's Heathrow Airport.

While in London, Harry did not meet with his older brother, Prince William , with whom he has had a strained relationship in recent years .

interview book question

When asked about the possibility of Charles' illness having a reunifying effect on his own family, Harry replied, "Yeah, I'm sure," and reflected on what he has seen firsthand among the families of Invictus athletes.

"Throughout all of these families, I see it on a day-to-day basis,- again, the strength of the family unit coming together," Harry said. "So, yeah, I think any illness, any sickness, brings families together. I see it time and time again, and that makes me very happy."

A new chapter for the Invictus Games

Harry has been a regular and integral part of the lives of wounded servicemembers and their families since 2014 when he launched the first Invictus Games as an international version of the Warrior Games, an annual event organized by the U.S. Department of Defense, which the prince attended in 2013.

Harry, who served in the British Army for 10 years, hosted the first Invictus Games in London in 2014. The Games have since taken place in Orlando, Toronto, Sydney, Dusseldorf and The Hague.

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Next year's Invictus Games in both Vancouver and Whistler will be the first time winter sports are included in the Paralympic competition.

In addition to the traditional lineup of sports like indoor rowing, sitting volleyball, swimming, wheelchair basketball and wheelchair rugby, the Invictus Games Vancouver Whistler will include alpine skiing, Nordic skiing, skeleton and wheelchair curling.

More than 500 competitors from over two dozen nations are expected to compete during the Games, held from Feb. 8 to 16, 2025.

MORE: Prince Harry's visit with King Charles III, absence of Prince William sparks reconciliation questions

While in Whistler to attend the One Year To Go celebration, Harry and his wife Meghan, the Duchess of Sussex , met with dozens of Invictus participants and toured the courses where those same competitors will compete next year.

interview book question

Harry himself tried one of the Games' most daring competitions in Whistler, the skeleton sled, which saw him don a helmet and slide head-first down an ice chute.

But it was the Invictus Games competitors on whom Harry wanted to put his focus.

"To see the smiles on their faces and then to hear the stories at the end and the excitement and just the happiness, that's what this is all about," he told Reeve. "This is what it's all about and as long as it's safe, we will continue to facilitate these kinds of opportunities for them."

Describing why he has a passion for being part of the Games, Harry said, "I've always had a life of service, and then I get my fix being part of, being with these guys. There’s no version of me coming here, watching them and not getting involved myself."

A possible next chapter for Harry in America

The Vancouver area is where Harry and Meghan spent several months at the start of 2020 as they carved out their new lives as non-working senior members of Britain's royal family.

The couple has now settled into a life of their own in Montecito, California, where they live with their two children, Archie, 4, and Lilibet, 2 .

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Harry said his and Meghan's children -- who did not join their parents in Whistler -- are doing "great" and "growing up very, very fast."

"They both have got an incredible sense of humor and make us laugh and keep us grounded every single day, like most kids do," he told Reeve. "I’m just very grateful to be a dad."

MORE: Prince Harry delivers award to shocked player at NFL Honors

After growing up in the U.K., Harry said he doesn't know that he feels American yet, but he loves living in the U.S.

"It’s amazing," he said. "I love every single day."

Describing a possible next chapter for himself stateside, Harry told Reeve that he has considered getting his American citizenship.

"I have no idea," he said when asked what would stop him from doing so. "The American citizenship is a thought that has crossed my mind, but certainly is not something that is a high priority for me right now."

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  • King Charles
  • Royal Family

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The Missing Piece of the Bob Marley Biopic

A new film about the reggae legend sanitizes his commitment to social justice—and loses what made him so magnetic.

Kingsley Ben-Adir as Bob Marley in “Bob Marley: One Love”

Nearly 20 years ago, during one of many family trips back to Ethiopia, I spent months wandering through the sprawling capital city. All summer, it seemed, the drivers and cyclists of Addis Ababa were blasting the Ethiopian pop star Teddy Afro ’s “Promise,” an infectious, reggae-inflected ode more often referred to by the name of the musician it lionizes: “Bob Marley.”

That 2005 song praised Marley for his commitment to Africa—and argued, more than 23 years after his death, that he be reburied in the motherland. (When he died, Marley was buried inside a small Ethiopian Orthodox–style church in Nine Mile, the hilltop Jamaican village where he was born.) Marley’s wife, Rita, told the press at the time that she intended to exhume his remains, explaining that he saw Ethiopia as his “spiritual resting place.” Though he’s most associated with Jamaica, Marley’s purview extended to a broader Pan-African ethos informed by his commitment to Black-liberation struggles—such as the fight to free Zimbabwe from British rule, which he helped commemorate with a 1980 concert. Crucial to his Rastafari worldview, which he embedded in his music, was a reverence for Africa as the source of Black life.

Thinking back to the Marley fanaticism I encountered in Ethiopia, and all that I’ve learned about his music and life in the years since, I found myself especially disappointed by his anodyne representation in a new film. Bob Marley: One Love bills itself as the story of the musician’s rise and overcoming of adversity. In practice, the movie flattens the revolutionary artist into a saintlike figure committed to peace. But “peace” wasn’t some generic aspiration for Marley. He was specifically interested in resisting the racist, colonial systems that Rastafari teachings identify as a source of suffering among Black people around the world. Sanitizing that kind of heady preoccupation with social justice might be typical for a mainstream biopic, but it does Marley’s rich legacy a tremendous disservice.

One Love begins with standard-issue fare for music movies: The fearless prodigy has complicated feelings about a big performance. In Marley’s case, it’s the Smile Jamaica Concert of 1976, an 80,000-person show and protest against political violence. Days before the performance, he and his band are targeted by gunmen, and Marley is shot in his Kingston home. He presses forward anyway, injured but undeterred. “His guitar is his machine gun,” a white record-label executive observes.

The Trinidadian British actor Kingsley Ben-Adir is charismatic and surprisingly capable as Marley, capturing the musician’s physicality with clear attention to his idiosyncrasies, like in the way he thrashes about onstage with zealous abandon. His accent doesn’t quite hit the mark, though, despite the actor’s diligent work to immerse himself in the signature lilt of Marley’s Jamaican patois. The dissonance is jarring at times, particularly during scenes that portray the music-making process: When the real Marley’s singing voice plays (Ben-Adir largely didn’t re-create his vocals), it’s hard not to wish we could hear the musician speak for himself, too. In the scenes when the music is more naturally integrated, Marley’s catalog helps keep the film afloat: Snapshots of archival performances that include real-life footage are more affecting than the many jam-session scenes in which Ben-Adir’s unfortunate dreadlock wig distracts from the unfolding musical alchemy.

One Love spends much of its runtime on the making of Exodus , the 1977 album that catapulted Marley and his band, the Wailers, to international superstardom. After the Smile Jamaica Concert, the band absconds to London, where they discover dreary weather, racist police, and a new punk sound that enlivens their music. This is where the screenplay (which is credited to four writers) most suffers in its elision of Marley’s Rastafarianism. Many of Marley’s most beloved records explicitly called for oppressed people, especially those in African and Caribbean countries, to rise up against harmful power structures. His songs reflected core beliefs he held, but the film muddles its portrayal of both the religion and the musical revolutions it inspired. Imagine a Malcolm X film that didn’t address his Muslim faith, which was inextricable from his push for civil rights and Black liberation.

Read: The teenage girl leading Jamaica’s new reggae scene

Instead of showing why a young Marley was drawn to the strident Afrocentricity of Rastafa ri, One Love positions his early search for spiritual belonging as the inevitable outcome of feeling abandoned by his absentee white father, Norval. Woozy flashbacks and dream sequences establish Norval as a mysterious figure appearing on horseback in a blazing field. By the end of the film, he’s replaced in these dream sequences by the Ethiopian emperor Haile Selassie, whom some Rastafari deify as Jah, and whose embrace seems to cure Marley’s feelings of paternal rejection. These surrealist interludes are a lot to handle. But the film’s deeper sin is that it fails to round out the contours of Marley’s attraction to the religious practice that he imbued in all his music. Marley’s feelings about his family were part of what influenced his faith, by all accounts, and songs such as “Corner Stone” were a raw articulation of that deep wound.

In relegating Marley’s pacifism to the realm of interpersonal conflicts, One Love fails to establish crucial context: Jamaica’s fight against British colonialism, which tied into Marley’s Pan-African beliefs. The country gained its independence in 1962, when Marley was 17, and he died before witnessing its second full decade free of British rule. The gifted biracial crooner of the film serves as a bridge between rival gang leaders and politicians, between white and Black, championing a naive peace stripped of any real conviction about the roots of his people’s oppression. For the most part, he’s closer to the placid icon of dorm-room posters and branded weed paraphernalia, a caricature that arose in part because Marley’s Rastafari principles included using cannabis as a sacred rite. That’s a strange fit alongside Marley’s actual music, especially the searching hymn that plays toward the end of the film. “ Selassie Is the Chapel ” casts the African emperor as a savior from earthly terrors. The brooding ode was originally written and produced by Mortimer Planno, the Rastafari elder who greeted Selassie when he visited Jamaica four years into the country’s independence. To hear Marley sing of the “Conquering Lion of Judah” is to feel him invoke the weighty promise of that convergence between prophecy and fulfillment.

It might be tempting to instinctively blame the biopic’s haphazard hagiography on family involvement. That’s a common pitfall of musician-driven films, and several Marleys do have producing credits on One Love . But I’m not convinced that this alone explains its ideological blankness or its reluctance to address the more unsavory elements of Marley’s persona, such as his habitual womanizing. His son Ziggy was also an executive producer on the 2012 documentary Marley , a nearly exhaustive look at the artist’s life that included critical perspectives from his children and former bandmates. The legendary Bunny Wailer, one of Marley’s original two bandmates, spoke about his strained departure from the early group; Cedella Marley, one of his children with Rita, offered candid reflections on the difficulty of having him as a father.

Glossy artist biopics, which tend to use an accessible narrative structure propelled by recognizable actors, are understandably appealing to some viewers. But many of these films—such as the 2022 Whitney Houston movie , and the 2021 Aretha Franklin movie —fail to make much commercial impact, or burnish their subject’s legend. By contrast, the messy, contradictory revelations in Marley offered valuable insight into what the musician’s art demanded of other people—and what kinds of sacrifices are taken for granted when a musician produces a truly world-altering catalog.

Sinless deities don’t make art; real, flawed people do. For the casual Marley enthusiast, especially those without early memories attached to his work, One Love might offer a less daunting entry point than Marley , which can feel intimidating in its scope. But his music and ideas—and all the people who helped usher them into this fractured world—deserve better.

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