Bitten by Books
Please join me in welcoming author Jaqueline Kyle for her exclusive Bitten by Books vlog interview. She will be here throughout the day to chat with readers in the comments section below about her new book release Ebenezer Scrooge: Ghost Hunter.Direct link to the video one so you can watch the interview on your cell phone or tablet from work:
Buy a print copy of Ebenezer Scrooge: Ghost Hunter from Amazon by clicking here.
Buy a Kindle copy of Ebenezer Scrooge: Ghost Hunter from Amazon by clicking here.
About Jaqueline Kyle
Author Bio:
Jaqueline Kyle once stood on top of an active nuclear reactor. It glowed. She dove the Great Barrier Reef and the fish swarmed to check HER out. On her 16th birthday she flew a plane solo – just to enjoy the view. She once ran a marathon - because it was faster than walking. When she bungee jumps, she always goes first, so her friends can jump off the bridge after her. Jaqueline Kyle is not the most interesting man in the world – because she’s a woman.
Connect with Jaqueline
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Who are some of your favourite authors?
I read quite a bit in many genres. I obviously love Dickens! I really admire Stephen King and Margaret Atwood. Non-fiction wise, I’d really recommend checking out Creativity, Inc. When The Bloggess (Jenny Lawson) releases her book later this month, I’ll be reading that too.
Hi, Jaqueline!
Welcome to Bitten by Books. Congratulations on your new release.
It is fantastic to have you with us today.
My question for you is; do you have a favorite book or series that you have written so far????
If so, which is it and why???
Scrooge, so far, is my favorite book that I have written. It sounds like Dickens the whole way through and I really get a giggle out of that. I have a couple upcoming projects in mind, but rest assured, they will all be quirky. I enjoy writing from different viewpoints and subverting the traditional narrative. So yeah… tongue is firmly ensconced in my cheek.
Hi Jacqueline and Congratulations! Your book sounds great and I love the title and cover, too! Wow, you seem quite daring. Is there any extreme sport you wouldn’t try?
Right about the time I say “I will never do XYZ” is the time I decide to go out and do it. It’s like saying NEVER calls the opportunity into existence. That said, I haven’t sky dived yet. Thinking about it gets my heart beating faster and that pit of fear in my stomach. But if someone rolled up to my house and said “we’re going!” I’d go. Just to prove to myself that I can conquer that fear.
I know what you mean. As soon as you say you’ll never, it’s like you speak it into existence and then you think, well, maybe…
1. I love the Mickey Mouse version :). I also love the one with Henry Winkler.
2. Yes, I believe in ghosts.
3. I’d ask Charles if he really likes goose. I can’t stand it, it’s so greasy.
Where is your favorite place that you have traveled to? Do you like the cooler or warmer climate?
I think this sounds great making Scrooge a ghost hunter :).
My favorite is the Muppet version!
It’s amazing how every single trip is different. A trip through the Costa Rican jungle is a way different experience than touring the ruins in Rome. A week on a Grand Cayman beach is 180 degrees from visiting the terracotta warriors in X’ian. Choosing a favorite trip really is like choosing your favorite child. Each experience teaches you something different and valuable.
That said, I would rather be warm than cold!
How did you choose the genre you write in?
I’m always looking for a genre I can subvert with my own brand of humor. For example, one of the first books I wrote was a guide for reluctant bridesmaids called F@&% the Knot: How to be a fantastic bridesmaid when you think ‘wedding’ is a four-letter word.
I think I am always going to be skipping around in genres, always looking for a place to insert something absurd into a serious narrative.
LOL, love it!
Q) What is your favorite version of A Christmas Carol? A) Scrooge (1951)
Q) Do you believe in ghosts? A) Yes, I do, although, thankfully, I have never seen one
Q) If you could meet Charles Dickens, what would you say? A) I would ask him if he helped, in any way, the poor and the disadvantaged.
A) My favorite version is the Muppet Christmas Carol, with Michael Caine as Scrooge and Gonzo is “Charles Dickens” and quotes actual passages from the book!
B) I was traveling cross country in my 20′s and stopped at a cheap hotel in Albuquerque. I woke up in middle of the night with the impression that an old woman was screaming in my face and the TV was glowing. Time has tried to rationalize it away, make me think it was a dream, my imagination, but it is still something that whispers to me. So… maybe?
C) I think I would beg forgiveness for “borrowing” his words. I’d also buy him a drink.
D) Dickens really did do quite a bit to bring the plight of the poor to the public’s attention. A Christmas Carol was originally designed to bring attention to orphans. Little Dorrit really brought the workhouses into focus. He was quite the social activist, in his own way.
Hello! What authors have influenced you?
Great question!
Stephen King (who has an amazing ability to humanize villains) and Charles Dickens (who is sooooo amazing)
My answers:
1. I like the 1999 version of A Christmas Carol with Patrick Stewart.
2. Although I have never had a personal experience, I don’t discount the possibility.
3. Who killed Edwin Drood?
Sir Patrick Stewart is pretty amazing. This clip will make you fall in love with him all over again. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=TqFaiVNuy1k
You’re completely right! An amazing person! Thank you for sharing the clip!
Congratulations on the release of Ebenezer Scrooge: Ghost Hunter! From all of the books you have written who is your favorite character? Was this character easy or difficult to write?
Thank you! It’s all very exciting!
For this book, Dickens had already established his characters, and so my job was to Twist them in subtle ways. Instead of being an isolated miser, Scrooge is an isolated drunk. Instead of being a kind guide, the Ghost of Christmas Past is sly and sarcastic. The Ghost of Christmas Present was the most difficult to get right, in this particular book.
But as for original works, villains are the most fun to write. Because nobody believes they are a villain. They lie to themselves, hide their motivations and act out of selfish desires. They usually can’t participate in self-reflection and are a bit baffled why someone would. The layers of motivation and self-deception make it fun and intriguing to write.
Author questions
My favorite is A Christmas Carol with Patrick Stewart. He is such a versatile actor.
Even though I have never seen one, I believe ghosts do exist.
If I could meet Charles Dickens, I would tell him that A Tale of Two Cities is one of my favorite books and would ask him about his inspiration for this classic.
Good one! What appeals to you in A Tale of Two Cities?
Dickens’ depiction of the French Revolution is fascinating and I am captivated by the character of Sydney Carton who transforms himself from a worthless alcoholic attorney to a romantic hero who sacrifices his life to save Charles and Lucie.
If you could have any animal (real or fantasy) as a companion what would you choose?
I had the best cat in the entire world for 15 years. He died last December and I still feel kicked in the guts that he’s gone. I would give ANYTHING to have him as my companion again.
BTW, Maine Coon cats are the best. They are outgoing, loving and protective.
Ohh I hadn’t thought of an old pet
what book, if any do you wish that You had written?
If anything, I get intrigued by a universe or setting that someone else created and daydream of what other stories could play out there. Not necessarily fan fiction, but whole new stories in the universe. Probably similar to what they will do in the stand alone Star Wars franchises.
Jim Carrey version cause hes a riot
Ghosts yes… I lived in a haunted house
would ask Dickens if he really believed in ghosts and would then ask him about time travel and tell him I came from the future and HE DIED!!
Hi Jaqueline!
Thank you so much for being with us today at Bitten by Books. It’s great to have you as a guest. Loved your video interview.
My question for you is; what is your biggest guilty pleasure as far as food and music?
There is a restaurant called “the counter” that serves alcohol milkshakes and custom burgers. Imagine nutella or java milkshakes with shots of kahlua or rum or whatever. Plus every aioli flavor possible. I want to move in there.
To answer your questions that are on the Giveaway Tools widget.
1. What is your favorite version of A Christmas Carol?
I really LOVE the Muppet’s version of A Christmas Carol! I bet I still have it on DVD somewhere. What is your favorite version?
I make my nieces and nephews watch the Muppet Christmas Carol with me every year. It’s my compulsory family tradition!
2. Do you believe in ghosts?
Absolutely. I think there are different kinds just like in the book/movie ACC. I have seen and experienced too many paranormal things over the years to dismiss them.
What about you do you believe in ghosts why or why not?
I’m still on the fence. Years ago I was traveling cross country and stopped at a cheap hotel in Albuquerque. I woke up in middle of the night with the impression that an old woman was screaming in my face and the TV was glowing.
Time has tried to rationalize it away, make me think it was a dream, my imagination, but it is still something that whispers to me. So… maybe?
Want to share your ghost story?
3. If you could meet Charles Dickens, what would you say?
DUDE! Where’s my car? hahahah seriously, I have no idea what I would ask him. Great question. What would you say to him Jaqueline?
I’d try to get him to say something incredibly profound so I could put it on a coffee mug. Or a t-shirt.
Do you have any animals and if so, share some about them
I have two cats. One is a long hair tabby, he’s very shy. The other is a short hair tortie. The tortie came up to me one day while I was running in a remote park. She’d been dumped and she was starving and begging for a rescue, so I obliged.
1. I like the old version of Dickens best but do get a kick out the Disney cartoon one
2. yes I do believe
3. I would ask him about his likes and dislikes.
Do you consider yourself a good cook?
I was cooking for a friend once and he said, “You’re very confident in here.” I think that adequately describes my kitchen efforts. Most of what gets produced is edible, healthy, and includes all food groups, but I won’t be opening a restaurant any time soon!
From any of your books, what has been one of your favorite scenes, or types of scenes, to write?
Great question!
My favorite scenes are when I can add something completely random. Recently I wrote a car accident scene where as the accident was happening, the protagonist has a hysterical thought: wondering where the brass testicles dangling from the trailer hitch in front of her would end up. Those kinds of opportunities to A) shine a light on some crazy things we all fixate on, and B) bring levity to a serious situation, are where I really enjoy what I do.
What was the most surprising bit of info you have ever come across when doing any research?
I didn’t realize when I started that Dickens was such a social activist for his time. He rallied for the poor, he encouraged the first international copyright law and he brought attention to the plight of the orphans. Really admirable stuff!
Who is your favorite Muppet and why?
Ha! Ha! Ha! Love it!
Growing up I was a Kermit fan, because I wanted to be logical and follow the rules. As an adult I like Gonzo, because he is so unapologetically himself!
I like the FAMILY TIES episode with Alex as Scrooge…the convenience-store presents he buys in the end are very kind in the context of the dream sequence, but the family thinks he’s nuts!
I’m undecided on ghosts.
“How the dickens are you?,” of course!
Are there any other genres you would have an interest in writing ?
I have a YA series in my head, waiting for me to put pen to paper. I think that might be the next one to get written, but who knows?
What is your favorite food?
Anything my mother makes. Dad’s not too shabby either. How about you?
Do you have a favorite stand-alone novel?
I actually really love stand alone novels. I feel like a lot of series books try to cash in, stretch a story further than it’s scope for big payday. Some of the greatest novels of our time were stand alone books. Stephen King: The Stand Margaret Atwood: Handmaiden’s Tale Aldous Huxley: Brave New World Yeah. Some really great stuff!
What’s your favourite genre to read?
I believe in escapsim. Whatever genre gives you a break from the world, go for it! For me lately it’s been fantasy and science fiction. I will read horror too. I tried writing horror once and I scared myself to bits, actually. Not sure I’ll ever finish it!
What’s your favorite book?
Right now, I’m really hungry, so I’m going to go with Joy of Cooking!
no fav version
no
Do you like Christmas?
?! I love the Allistar Sims version
?2 yes
?3 Did you know a Scrooge?
hi Jaqueline,
what is the most exciting thing you have done? I see you have done many things.
Frightening, adrenline rush thing? Bungee jumping. Close second was a safari in Kruger Park S. Africa. I was camping and woke up one night to hyenas growling just on the other side of the fence!
If you found a genie, what would be your three wishes?
At the core, I definitely want what everyone else does. Love, security and happiness. Now how to word the wishes…
If you could only give ONE piece of advice to newbie authors and writers, what advice do you think is the most important one to give? One PRO to becoming an author? One CON to becoming an author?
Advice: Discipline. Make a time and a place every day. Sit there until one of three things happened: A) You reach a word count B) You finish a chapter or C) a designated amount of time passes (2 or 3 hours).
PRO: You get to create worlds and fulfill dreams.
CON: It’s lonely.
Do you have any current favorite shows or books?
your bio made me smile. My question is where’s your favorite vacation destination. I’m looking for someplace new to go for next year.
It really depends on what you like to do. I used to be a travel agent in another life! Are you looking to relax? Culture? Adventure?
What is your favorite version of A Christmas Carol?
—- I really do not have a favorite version. Now my husband does. He likes the old black and white version. He tries to watch it (when our sons allow us the tv) every season.
Do you believe in ghosts?
—- Yush, I do. Now that does not mean that I go out hunting for them. LOL. I had some weird stuff happen that is not easily explainable like scents in one particular spot. Such as coffee when hubby nor I drink the stuff.
If you could meet Charles Dickens, what would you say?
—- Have no idea.
1. What is your favorite version of A Christmas Carol? The Muppet’s Christmas Carol or the one with Patrick Stewart
2. Do you believe in ghosts? I’d like to believe i do even though I’ve never had an encounter.
3.If you could meet Charles Dickens, what would you say? lol probably “Will you sign all my copies of your books please?”
3 = LOL!
If you were on Battlestar Gallactica, what job would you do?
I think I’d help Dr. Cottle.
Viper pilot!
1. What is your favorite version of A Christmas Carol?
IDK I am Jewish
2. Do you believe in ghosts?
Maybe, usually no
3. If you could meet Charles Dickens, what would you say?
Seriously, I have no idea what I would ask him. Great question. Maybe i’ll try for interview
Sarit, ultimately A Christmas Carol is about redemption. Of a miserly old coot learning to love human kind. It’s worth a watch - and there is absolutely no mention of the J-man.
Hi J
I didn’t said that I never listen to the carols… there are beautiful… and also he spirit of them…the problem that I just really don’t know one from another <3
What things inspired you for writing books ?
I tend to read a lot - news, blogs, fiction, nonfiction - all of it! The diversity of all that reading fertilizes my mind so I can grow a new and unique story!
who is your favorite author?
I feel compelled to say Charles Dickens, since you know, he’s the inspiration for this book. More contemporary favorites are Stephen King, JK Rowling, and Margaret Atwood.
wheres your favorite place to write?
Peets! Great coffee and no Norah Jones angsty music on the loudspeaker!
What is your favorite part of being a Author?
I really like the process of writing the first draft. You give yourself carte blanche to write ANYTHING you want. It’s only later that you have to go back and edit/make sense of it all. But that first draft, there are no rules, no oversight, and my imagination runs wild.
This sounds like a really intriguing book! I’d love to read it. Do you have a particular place you like to write, somewhere that inspires you and gets your brain going?
I write at coffee shops. I’ve somehow trained my brain to write when there’s the smell of coffee and the white noise of people talking and grinders in the background.
What was the most recent book that you absolutely loved?
The last installment of the Maddaddam Trilogy by Margaret Atwood. The end made me cry! She is SO talented!
1) I don’t have one, I haven’t listened to that many of them I guess.
2) No, I don’t believe in ghosts.
What’s your reading preference - ebooks or books?
I like to read ebooks in bed late at night because in night mode they don’t wake my boyfriend!
1. I’ve probably watched it, but no versions come to mind. Might have to check out the Muppet’s version a few people have listed
2. I’ve never seen anything to make me a believer. But that doesn’t mean I’m not open to the possibility of ghosts.
3. Probably congratulations on his success as an author. Or maybe how are you still alive?!
answers.
1. Disney’s
2. no because I’ve never seen one yet.
3. Hi
To answer your author questions:
1) I would have to say the Vanessa Williams movie version.
2) No, I personally do not. It does not mean however I would not be open to the possibility of ghosts.
3) I would definitely say “Hi.” to him, but I honestly do not know what I would ask him. That was a god question though.
I meant to say that it was a good question.