Author Interview with Herbel Santiago

As a children's writer, I worry about the generation gap between myself and the reader. Are the experiences I'm writing about going to be relevant to today's kids?

As I read Herbel Santiago's answers to my 10 questions, I realized that great literature can stand up to the evolving definition of childhood. Kids continue to read classics like Alice's Adventures in Wonderland and Harry Potter because while the world around us changes, children will always relate to other children, and their shared experience of trying to figure out the world and their place in it. Santigao has contributed to the ongoing history of children' literature with her sophomore book, Amihan and the Quest for the Golden Tree.

1. How many books have you written and where can you buy them?

I have written two books. Right now, I am promoting my Young Adult Fiction, Amihan and the Quest for the Golden Tree. It's available on Amazon.

2. What famous books can you compare to your own?

I think my book is like the girl version of Mark Twain's The Adventures of Tom Sawyer.

3. Why do you write for this particular age group?

I just love the innocence of children and young adults. They love fun and sassy, with just a twinge of deepness, in their stories.

4. How autobiographical are your books?

It is based on some of my experiences as a child. And a composite of experiences of other children that are around me.

5. What’s the best compliment that you’ve ever received about your writing?

It's a fun read. Also, there are great virtues and moral lessons hidden expertly underneath the book's fun and easy reading.

6. What has been your greatest moment as a writer so far?

I'm able to finish this novel. And actually offer it for the world to read.

7. Where do you get your covers?

I love the amazing graphics in Canva.

8. Who is your biggest fan?

My friends. I always bug them to read and to review my manuscript. If they don't roll their eyes, I think the book is ready to see the world.

9. What is next for you?

There are two YA books that I plan to release next year. Also, I'd like to start working on Book 2 of Amihan's adventures.

10. End with a quote from your book.

"In kindness lies the Golden Tree." --- Amihan and the Quest for the Golden Tree