C. S. VanBeekum 'The Children of the Sun and the Moon' Interview | Respect The Author
Where are you from?
The Highlands of New Jersey
Tell us the story of how you got into writing
Writing is something that has always been with me, but I hadn't paid much attention to it until my early twenties. Much like a path you've taken through the woods, and somehow though many years have passed, you suddenly stumble upon a new path, ready for you to find something magical. In my younger years, I always kept a journal, and I would also write short stories and poems, but kept it all to myself. When I was working on my first book, initially for my own amusement, a dear friend encouraged me to publish it. I was terribly nervous but so thankful I had followed her advice.
What was your favorite book growing up?
It's a strange toss-up between E. L. Konigsburg's "A Proud Taste For Scarlet and Miniver" and Dasent's "East O' the Sun and West O' the Moon". Both have been enduring favourites, and I've re-read them just enough that the pages are loose from the binding.
What is the name of your new book?
The Children of the Sun and the Moon
What inspired you to write the book?
The legend of Robin Hood has always held a special place in my heart, and I thought it was high time that there be some mythology behind it. That, and the infamous concept of Sir Guy of Gisborne seemed ready for a redeemed identity.
Tell us more about your new book
My story is based on the legend of Robin Hood, calling up from times long forgotten, the mystic origins of Robin, Guy, and Múriel. All three were destined to find each other long before the forest of Sherwood had flourished upon English soil. Through visions, gold and silver gifts, and the presence of the great white stag, their journey unfolds into something far more than they anticipated. These characters struggle to overcome fear and hate, despite their sorrows, learning the power of forgiveness, humility, and love.
Where do you go to get into writing mode?
First and foremost, a good long walk in the woods. Hikes and mountain peaks where one can survey a vast green landscape is preferable. Rainy day hikes are sheer heaven. But where I live, driving anywhere means at least an hour if not more in the car, so I like to listen to music to fuel ideas for characters and a bit of scene-setting. Some of my favourite go-to's are Hans Zimmer, Julie Fowlis, Jeremy Soule, and Triakel. Or frankly, any Norwegian or Swedish folk music. It's fantastic finding the perfect song which seems to round out that one particular character whose voice has been rather quiet.
Who needs to read this book?
Anyone who enjoys adventure stories with hints of old world magic and romance! ;)
Who inspires you?
Tolkien and Shakespeare.
In all honesty, before Tolkien was ever a whisper in my ear, I was raised on Shakespeare. The way he intimately portrayed the complexity of human thought and emotion has left a lasting impact on this heart. He was able to make historical figures come to life, create a new realm for faerie tales, and woo us with his sonnets.
Then, as I grew older and delved into Tolkien's work, I fell in love.
Here was someone who carried all the unspoken burdens of war and loss, and yet it didn't hinder him from creating a world of sheer beauty; a fantastical world that helped us see the value of friendship, the need for justice, and the hope for a better future.
I'll never be Tolkien or Shakespeare, and to say I hold an aspiration of that would be mad. But I would wish to gain a little bit of their wisdom and do them proud.
How important is reading and literacy for youth in this world
Reading is not so much about escaping as it is about renewing our perspective of the world around us, of each other, and most importantly of ourselves. Not all books accomplish this, but there is a wealth of literature that has so much wisdom to teach. If we fill our minds with anything, why not fill our minds with things that are wise and lovely and honourable?
What is some advice you would give to someone with a dream to create something they dream of?
Be willing to learn from those who came before you and strive to have a teachable spirit.
Recognise that mistakes are not the end; they're just a subtle way of telling you, "Back to the path."
Don't let your goal be to create something because it meets your desires in the present moment. Create something that will fulfil the hopes and desires of all those who will come after you.
Where can people find your new book?: https://www.amazon.com/Children-Sun-Moon-C-VanBeekum/dp/1091320616/ref=sr_1_1?dchild=1&keywords=vanbeekum&qid=1593824980&sr=8-1
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