An Interview With Award-Winning
Ohio author, Leslie McDonald
With
great enthusiasm, welcome esteemed author and equestrian, Leslie McDonald. Over
the years, I have come to appreciate that Leslie transcends the mere titles of author
and horsewoman. She is a multifaceted individual, consistently imparting innovative
concepts, inspiring others to pursue their optimal existence, and urging them to
advance with courage. Her extensive equestrian experience significantly
enhances her creative pursuits. As a writer, she has garnered prestigious accolades
for her enthralling narratives and compelling scenarios.
Welcome, Leslie!
GM: Congratulations on your new book! What is the premise for your new book?
LM: Behind the Gate is a captivating
collection of color photography framed by traditional haiku blended to define the
seasons “behind the gate” of a secluded country haven. The book will touch the heart
and imagination of anyone who loves the resplendency of gardens, the beauty of horses
and the serenity of nature.
GM: What was your inspiration for writing haikus?
LM: When I was in college I focused on writing poetry. In fact, I had two
chapbooks published: one by DePauw University and the other by University of Wisconsin/Whitewater.
As time progressed, poetry took a backseat to writing fiction. However, as my work
training horses and teaching lessons is all consuming, it became difficult to find
quality time for long format writing. To satisfy my creative urges, I began to write
haiku, inspired by photos I took around my farm. The short format has been the perfect
solution to satisfy my desire to write.
GM: How have your horses inspired your writing?
LM: All seven of my published books have been inspired by the life I have
been blessed to lead with horses. My farm and the people who frequent it are a constant
source of inspiration for characters and stories.
GM: Describe a day in your life as a writer and horsewoman...
LM: My days are extremely full managing a stable. From the care and training
of the horses to a full schedule of lessons that often last into the evening, there
is very little free time. But, whenever time allows, I always have a legal pad at
the ready to jot down story ideas. I’m definitely a person who writes in long hand
rather than on the computer.
GM: Do you need a quiet place to write, or do you prefer the sounds of the
day to propel your creativity?
LM: I have two favorite places to write. One is a cushy old wicker sofa on
the front porch that overlooks my front pastures. I’m rarely disturbed there as
I can’t be seen from the barn! The other perfect writing spot is a chair beside
the pool where I can sit in the garden and listen to the relaxing waterfall that
blocks out all the noise except my thoughts.
GM: What would you like readers to take away from your new book?
LM: A tranquil escape from life’s crazy pace. Behind the Gate invites the
reader to enjoy the purity and peace of nature.
GM: Can you share an excerpt?
LM: Yes...
Woven
morning web
captures
summer images
between
silken strands
 |
| (c) Leslie McDonald, Behind The Gate |
GM: What other books have you written?
LM: I’ve written six other books: Horse on the Loose, Down the Aisle, Musings
of a Horse Farm Corgi, Journeys with Horses and Making Magic.
GM: Where can readers find your new book?
LM: All my books are available on Amazon.
GM: What's for lunch?
LM: Lunch in the traditional sense doesn’t exist in my lifestyle. Midday I
might snack on one of the horses’ apples or stick a pack of Belvita cookies in my
pocket. Throughout the day, I always have a cup of white tea at hand.
Connect with Leslie…
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