Pump Up Your Book Chats with Young Adult Fantasy Author Melissa Burmester

Melissa Burmester is presently living in East Moriches, NY with her twin brother George, her parents and their cat Cosmo. Melissa has been writing about vampires and the supernatural since the age of twelve. She has written a few short stories, but Ginger High is her first novel.  She is presently attending Westhampton Beach High School, and is the tenth grade. She is planning a career as a writer and a teacher.  You can visit her website at www.gingerhigh.com, her blog at http://melissa-gingerhigh.blogspot.com/ or visit Melissa at facebook at facebook.com/melissa.gingerhigh and http://twitter.com/Ginger_High.

Thank you for this interview, Melissa.  Do you remember writing stories as a child or did the writing bug come later?  Do you remember your first published piece?

When I was younger I wrote some short stories and poems. I started writing Ginger High when I was twelve and it is my first published piece.

What do you consider as the most frustrating side of becoming a published author and what has been the most rewarding?

I submitted my manuscript to many agents and publishers and I was rejected. I was so happy when I got the first printed copy and I made my first sale.

Are you married or single and how do you combine the writing life with home life?  Do you have support?

I am single. My family is very supportive.

What do you like to do for fun when you’re not writing?  Where do you like to vacation?  Can you tell us briefly about this?

If I am not writing, I like to read and watch TV. Every year my family and I like to go to Pennsylvania to ski and to Florida to visit my grandparents. While in Florida it gives us a chance to relax and unwind.

If you could be anywhere in the world for one hour right now, where would that place be and why?

EGYPT! I am fascinated with the country and its history.

Who is your biggest fan?

My dad. He is so proud of me.

Where’s your favorite place to write at home?

I like to write in the recliner by the fireplace. It is so warm and cozy there.

What’s your favorite library and why?

We have the choice of three libraries that we can join. I prefer the Center Moriches Library because it is very close to home and all of my friends go there.

What’s your favorite bookstore and why?

I like both Barnes & Noble and Borders but Borders is the closest to my house.

Do you have any pets?

I have a great cat Cosmo. He was interviewed by his friend Amigo and he told him all about me. You can read the interview at http://petsandauthors.blogspot.com/2009/09/interview-with-cosmo-cat-owner-of.html

What are you reading right now?

I am reading After by Amy Efaw

Have you ever won anything?

I was given an award by the Eighth graders of the East Moriches Middle School for writing Ginger High and I have won a couple of book giveaways.

What’s on your to do list today?

I have a very hectic school schedule and I have two major tests on Tuesday so I have to study. When I am finished I can get back to writing.

I understand that you are touring with Pump Up Your Book Promotion in October via a virtual book tour.  Can you tell us all why you chose a virtual book tour to promote your book online?

A virtual tour allows you to use the internet to promote the book. You can do this from the comforts of your own home. You do not have to travel all over the country to promote your book.

Thank you for this interview, Melissa. Good luck on your virtual book tour!

Thank You for the great interview. I am in presently writing the sequel to Ginger High. Please check out my book trailer at http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=lUKPBBBMVNM.