Clare Vanderpool Discusses Her Writing Journey and New Release

Vanderpool emphasized her strong connection to her hometown, noting that while writing about a new setting in Navigating Early—Maine—presented challenges, her research trip proved invaluable. During her visit to Maine, she explored rocky beaches, lighthouses, and the Appalachian Trail, describing October's peak foliage as a beautiful backdrop for her characters' adventures.

Faith plays a significant role in Vanderpool's writing. She reflects on how growing up in the same Roman Catholic church has influenced her perspective and storytelling, focusing on themes like woundedness, sacrifice, and redemption. Vanderpool believes these experiences shape her characters and add depth to their narratives. She also values the sense of community fostered by her church, understanding the importance of presence and connection, which manifests in her stories.

When asked what she has learned from her writing, Vanderpool highlighted several insights: her characters often surprise her, children grasp profound concepts like forgiveness, and everyone has a unique story. She humorously added that her daughter believes she is a better writer than cook.

Vanderpool has shifted from a more communal writing approach to working mostly alone. While she previously participated in writing groups, she now prefers to focus on her drafts until a more polished version emerges, although she acknowledges the initial benefits of collaboration.

Balancing writing with motherhood was a challenge for Vanderpool, especially while raising four young children during the creation of Moon Over Manifest. She described the process as a juggling act, often putting writing aside for months and prioritizing her family. She managed her time by writing early in the morning or late at night, accepting the necessity of working in fits and starts.

Addressing concerns about originality, Vanderpool admitted she occasionally finds similarities between her work and others. To maintain creative integrity, she avoids reading similar books during her writing process and only makes minor adjustments when necessary.

Winning the Newbery Medal in 2011 significantly impacted Vanderpool's career, providing her opportunities to speak publicly about writing. While she enjoys these engagements, she strives to keep her writing as her primary focus amidst the demands of her new recognition.

Regarding her children’s reading habits, Vanderpool noted that they do seek her suggestions, but her status as an award-winning author does not always sway teenagers. She has curated a diverse collection of books, influencing her children’s literary tastes, while they also engage with school assignments. Her family's diverse reading preferences include Tolkien for the boys and Rick Riordan for the girls.

Reflecting on her reading from the previous year, Vanderpool listed several favorites, including Freeman by Leonard Pitts, Jr., Gloryland by Shelton Johnson, A Place in Time by Wendell Berry, The Wednesday Wars by Gary D. Schmidt, and Eudora Welty's One Writer's Beginnings.

Vanderpool expressed her enjoyment of living near Eighth Day Books and its owner, Warren Farha, describing it as a warm and inviting space filled with books and community. This neighborhood gem has become a cherished part of her life.