Meet Draegon Grey

A couple of months ago, I made Draegon Grey's virtual acquaintance via a LinkedIn group discussion.  Draegon conducts author and character interviews for those in the literary world.  What intrigued me the most were Draegon's character interviews.  After being featured in one of his interviews I asked if he would like to provide a blog posting on this topic on my blog, especially on how and why he started doing them.   He happily obliged!  Here's what he has to say:

"How did I begin?  I started conducting interviews after I had one done.  I realized how helpful it is for the author.  It supports the author and his/her audience in a couple of ways.

One - you learn not only more about the author's journey, beginning in writing, but also how a particular book was developed and, 

Two - it allows the author to become more connected to his/her audience.  They become more human so to speak.  Additionally, for the author, they in retrospect may be helpful in future projects, making modifications or adjustments that maybe wouldn't have been considered without looking back at the process. 

As far as character interviews, this was my idea.  Although there are a few out there, none are like mine (he says smiling).  From a writer's perspective, these interviews actually help the writer/author flesh the character out a bit more.  This may be especially helpful for future projects, especially if there is a series. 

From a 'reader's' perspective, it allows and encourages connection not only with the writer, but the characters.  It also provides a perspective of the character they would not normally get from reading the novel themselves.  I also like the fact that it can provide information about character development. 

From my perspective, I like the opportunity to flesh out the ideas and foundation behind the character.  I enjoy asking probing questions that provide insight to the character and the author.  This residually helps me with the writing of my books, Lorenz Traveling Diaries, E.O.T.W. and my comic Spectrum.  I utilize the same questions for my work.  It challenges me.  So it is a win/win for me and the authors.

Lastly, with the literary world changing so much, I feel this exercise gives this world variety that it needs."

Thanks, Draegon for your unique insight into your interview process.  You can read more author and character interviews on his website, draegongrey.com.  Best of luck with your continuing adventures, Draegon!