Award-Winning Author Interview with Theresa Parker Pierce

Can you share a little about your recent books?

I had the privilege of being part of two anthologies. “Room at the Table” was compiled by Starr Ayers and Stephanie Pavlantos. This is a collection of encouraging stories from special needs families. They included three stories about my brother and the challenges he overcame. He will always be my hero. The second anthology I contributed to contained my Christmas poem “Mrs. Claus Bakes.” The proceeds for “Christmas Spirit,” compiled and edited by Terri Kalfas, benefit Samaritan’s Purse.

Why do you write? Do you have a theme, message, or goal for your books?

I write to inspire and entertain. If I had to choose a theme, it would be courageous joy. I write for a monthly magazine called Senior Savvy. It is for the 55 and over reader. The best compliment the readers have given me is that my articles are relatable and bring back memories. I have written stories about holidays growing up, learning to swim, and my childhood. My goal in all of my writing is to offer hope. Having lived 67 years, I have stories that inspire and come from experience.

How long have you been writing?

I have been writing during my entire educational career. As a 35-year veteran teacher, I wrote newsletters and inspirational articles for the system. I taught predominantly reading, writing, and history. From teaching a first grader how to write their first sentence, to a high schooler learning to write a research paper, it has been rewarding.

And how long did it take you to get your first major book contract? Or are you published non-traditionally? How did that come about?

I’m hoping for my first major book contract. While teaching I wrote “Up Dunn’s Mountain,” a manuscript that is a coming-of-age story set in the Civil War. The protagonist Bea struggles with issues related to the time period.

During Covid, I wrote a prequel to help the reader understand issues that affected Bea leading up to becoming an orphan along with her twin brother Bubby. Then, while on a roll, I wrote a sequal that carries Bea’s story forward through the eyes of her adopted schoolmarm Momma. She finds her answers and hope for a better future in the south.

Which of your books is your favorite?

My favorite books are historical fiction. I used them in my classroom to engage my students in history. The concept of using story was my inspiration to write my own trilogy. When I taught my students to find the human side of history, they were hooked. Books drew the students into lessons brought by the non-fiction part to life.

My favorite scene in the Dunn’s Mountain trilogy is when Miss Clairmont tells a childhood story about her first pair of button-up boots. The cobbler told her father she could have them for a song and dance. So, she literally does both to the merriment of everyone in the shoe shop.

Tell us about an award you won that was particularly meaningful.

My manuscript, Up Dunn’s Mountain won first place for Young Adult Literature at Blue Ridge Mountain Christian Writers Conference in 2020. The sequel, Miss Clairmont’s Christmas won third place for Novellas in 2022.  

An award that is particularly meaningful to me was presented at the Asheville Christian Writer’s Conference. I won first place for “The Rodeo Girl,” a devotional about a student I formed a connection with when I attended her rodeo. It completely changed our relationship.

I challenged readers to find a way to give others a second glance, to meet them where they are. I think the reason this particular award is so meaningful is because receiving it caught me off guard. I did not see myself as devotional worthy. I learned later that others feel that same struggle.

What’s your writing work schedule like?

My writing schedule includes a planning for my monthly magazine commitment. I am fortunate to belong to Word Weavers International. The members serve as editors, inspiration, and friends and they help me make my articles the best they can be.

Other opportunities to write come up organically. My husband serves as my first beta reader. He says he does not pass judgement but looks for things that need clarification and grammar. However, when good things happen, he is my first cheerleader.

Do you have an interesting writing quirk? If so, what is it?

My interesting writing quirk is that I lack confidence and when I get a compliment, I am always surprised. One of the greatest joys I have had was winning an opportunity to attend Get Lit at the Mitford Museum in Hudson, N.C.

I’m fortunate, one blessing has led to another. Because of my story, I’ve been asked to present at local museums or schools, which are my favorite because I call those moments “teaching without testing.” I dress in period attire and portray characters like the ones in my trilogy. It is so fun!

What has been your greatest joy(s) in your writing career?

Since retirement, three years ago, my writing career has become more committed.

Could you tell us about a dark moment in your writing career?

A dark moment during that time was when I had Covid. I lost my focus and interest in writing. I felt unable to inspire others. What drew me out was the joy of family.

I read the same children’s books multiple times for the entertainment of my grandchildren. I caught the cadence of stories. Then I checked out books from the library using a remote system. They brought inspiration. I followed devotionals and even wrote a few. The mix of genres was the right medicine that healed my Covid heart.

How many times in your career have you experienced rejection? How did they shape you?

I have experienced plenty of rejection, so much so, that I might have given up had it not been for mentors like Cindy, Eva Marie, Sarah, Taryn, Edwina, DiAnn, Joyce and Edie. They shaped my writing by introducing me to “champaign rejections.” Champaign rejections are the ones that helped me grow and taught me to be culturally sensitive, press on, plus where to find resources and most importantly to learn the craft.

I have learned these lessons and so much more. I keep on keeping on because of my hometown heroes like Jane, Elaine, and Cyndi. I have so many beta readers I lost count. I am thankful for the Word Weavers, 540 classes, Writing with the Erasers group and classes. We all stand on the shoulders of giants. My prayer is to be for others what so many have been for me.

Where do you get your ideas?

I learned from writer, Lester Laminack, to keep a journal. I write ideas on napkins, my phone, and slips of paper. These ideas come from reading—which has become a source of unlimited resources. So much so, I’m starting to predict where the stories will go.

Who is your favorite author to read?

My favorite authors to read are Janette Oke, Jan Karon, Patti Callahan Henry, Kristy Woodson Harvey, Jason Hart, Fanny Flagg, and Kristin Harmel. I have too many authors I like to read to count them all. 

What advice can you give aspiring writers that you wished you had gotten, or that you wished you would have heeded?

The best advice I can you give aspiring authors I wished I had received is to try different things and don’t be afraid to ask for help. When I first started I was embarrassed and timid. I still struggle but now when I get a rejection, I read the suggestions and start again. I don’t want to live with regret.

I recommend writers break into the market in a variety of ways. Attending conferences is a great way to network. Join a support group. Toughen your skin. That is how to grow. Take chances. Enter contests. Don’t look at others and set your own course.

Theresa Parker Pierce has 35 years of experience teaching reading and history in both private and public schools. Two-time Rowan Salisbury Teacher of the Year, Theresa enjoys storytelling about her childhood in eastern North Carolina and the history of Rowan County. 

Theresa is a member of Word Weavers International, Blue Ridge Christian Writers, Room at the Table, and the 540 Writing Club. She writes monthly for Senior Savvy magazine. She shares her volunteer time between the North Carolina Transportation Museum in Spencer and the Rowan Museum in Salisbury. You can connect Theresa on Facebook.

You can find these compilation books on Amazon.