Meet the Blogger with Donna Volkenannt

As you might have guessed, Donna Volkenannt and I met through blogging. She's a gifted writer, with stories appearing in Chicken Soup for the Soul and numerous other publications. Her blog, Donna's Book Pub, offers a host of goodies from writing advice and publication opportunities to thoughts on language and books. She's friendly, helpful, and I suspect, just as kind and sweet in real life as she is online. It's always fun to hop over and see what's happening at her place. 

Welcome, Donna! It's good to have you visit. Why did you start blogging? How long have you had your current blog? 

At a writing conference several years ago, a speaker talked about the importance of building a platform and networking. I was unsure what the terms platform and networking meant, so I flashed back to my younger years. Back in the 1970s I wore platform shoes and owned a pair of fishnet stockings, but when the speaker mentioned blogs and blogging, I realized she wasn’t talking about vintage fashion attire. (Just kidding.)

In reality, in 2008, a techno-savvy member of my critique group told me how easy it was to start a blog. With a burst of enthusiasm, I rolled out two of them concurrently. One was my personal blog, Donna’s Book Pub. The second focused on book reviews. Updating and maintaining two blogs left little time for other writing, so I let the second one fade away to focus on Donna’s Book Pub.

Platforms - Lol! I never thought of it like that. And I owned quite a few pairs of platform shoes myself. I guess we had a head start on the whole marketing thing after all! :D Tell us, what is your blog about?

My intent for Donna’s Book Pub is to be a friendly place for visitors to drop in and chat about writing, publishing, books, and thoughts on life in general. Over the years I’ve shared submission opportunities, tips on writing, conference notes, author interviews, personal stories, and a potpourri of thoughts and observations.  

Well, I'd say you've succeeded in making it a friendly place. It is indeed that and a whole lot more. What benefits have you gained through blogging? 

I’ve gained discipline with writing and self-editing and have come to realize that ideas and plans need to be adjusted to fit time constraints. 

The greatest benefit has been connecting with so many amazing writers who share a passion for the written word. I’ve met talented and generous bloggers who have given me a glimpse into their lives and have helped me learn about the art, craft, and business of writing. 

I agree. The benefits, friends in particular, are great. It's a great community. What projects are you working on now? 

A few years ago I started a novel during National Novel Writing Month. I crossed the word-count finish line, but the novel wasn’t complete and wasn’t very good. Since then, in between writing shorter works, I’ve been plugging away on the novel.

The second project I’m excited about is a volunteer project -- a short script that will be performed during our parish’s cemetery walk in the fall. I’m looking forward to receiving research material from our parish heritage committee so I can start writing the script. 

Both projects sound interesting. Will look forward to hearing more about them in the future. What might people be surprised to learn about you? 

A pleasant writing surprise occurred in 2012 when my essay, “Honey, Can I Borrow Your Garter Belt?” won first place in the Erma Bombeck Global Humor Award. As part of the award, I received a generous check and was a guest at the Erma Bombeck workshop at the University of Dayton. It was an unexpected honor and a delightful experience! 

Congratulations! How exciting. Those kinds of surprises are nice! What advice would you share with a newbie blogger? 

Take risks and explore new ideas, but be prepared to change or adjust as needed. Also, take time to visit other blogs and leave comments. 

Good advice. Blogging is a lot like real life, isn't it? Thanks so much for joining us this week, Donna! It's been a pleasure. :) Wishing you much success with your writing.

Thank you, Karen!

More About Donna 

Donna Duly Volkenannt got her first byline as a high school reporter for “Prom,” a St. Louis-area magazine for teens. She is a former president of the Missouri Writers’ Guild and has presented creative writing workshops in Missouri, Illinois, and Arkansas. Her work has appeared in: Chicken Soup for the Soul, Spirits of St. Louis, Irish Inspirations, Mysteries of the Ozarks, Cup of Comfort, Sauce, Bookreporter, Storm Country, SASEE, and other publications. First-place winner of the Erma Bombeck Global Humor award, Donna lives in Missouri with her husband, grandchildren, and fourteen-year-old black Lab. In her spare time she reads, writes, and volunteers.

Visit Donna at her Blog

  
Do you have any questions for Donna? Do you concur with Donna's advice to newbie bloggers? What are you writing this week?

Happy writing,
Karen


Teacup photo credit: Free Images