Most of us will never achieve that status in life, but boy can we dream of the day!  I stress to my critique group that a successful book signing means you’ve made it, you’re recognized and you have “fans”.   As an author, that’s what you strive for.

Once you’ve reached this recognition level comes the responsibility to answer questions your fans ask.  I learned from James the number one question all authors are asked, and the number one question all authors hate to answer.  And what is that question?

“How did you come up with the idea for the book?”

James, I might add, has a really good sense of humor to go along with his incredible writing skills. 

I’ve never given this question much thought because even I am curious as to that thought process of others.  James has his own way of doing things.  One I think I’ll try.

James has a box stashed somewhere in the corner of his office.  As he says, “A tattered old lawyers box that has seen a lot of use.”  When he is reading a magazine or newspaper and an article catches his attention he tears it out and tosses it into the box.  Just tosses it!  No organization, no rhyme or reason, just tosses.  He does this over and over.  Over the years we’ve all done this time of thing, but called it clipping files.  James admits his is not organized, just possible future ideas tossed into the box.

When James finishes one book and needs inspiration for another, he pulls out his box.  He picks, at random, something he’s clipped.  He reads it, and if it’s a subject that sounds promising, he then picks up another article at random and holds it next to the first clipping.  Are the two ideas together something he might be able to build the start of a story around?  If not, he tosses one or the other, or even both and starts the process all over again.  If something that he’s paired together hits a note with him the cogs of his imagination start working. Next, he must decide whether his idea could be a stand alone novel or fit into his series novels.  He readily admits he likes odd subjects and ancient technology. 

Can you think of an easier way to spark your own imagination?  I too have a box, but good grief it’s so organized that I’m going to turn it over and toss the clippings loosely back into the box and try James Rollins’ idea to spark a creative plot line.  Now…just where did I put that box?

Until next month keep writing and I’ll see you in print.

Don’t miss reading The Judas Strain by James Rollins.  Great summer reading.

Karen