AUTHOR BIO
Get to know the Minnesota-based indie author!
Shannon Jump is an avid reader and writer. She has a passion for storytelling and often writes across genres. She refuses to start the day without the perfect cup of coffee, is a die-hard Minnesota Twins baseball fan and Food Network junkie. Shannon lives in small-town Minnesota with her husband and two teenage kids. Her debut novel, My Only Sunshine was released on Feb. 25, 2021.
She penned her first short story at the age of 12 and still has the original copy, cover art included!
Writing and storytelling have been a passion of hers for as long as she can remember, and if you follow her on Instagram, you'll see she's still just as excited about reading as she is about writing.
In addition to writing and publishing independently, Shannon is an active Bookstagrammer and NetGalley reviewer. You can follow her book reviews and publishing journey on Goodreads and Instagram.
IS MY ONLY SUNSHINE A TRUE STORY?
While My Only Sunshine is loosely based on a true story, it is a work of fiction. Names, dates, and events were altered and additional scenes/plot lines added for entertainment purposes.
WHAT INSPIRES YOU TO WRITE?
These characters! They take up residence in my head and beg for their stories to be told. Writing, for me, is a release. It's an escape from the stress of everyday life, and a way to let my imagination run free.
HOW DO YOU DEAL WITH WRITER'S BLOCK?
I try not to think of writer's block as a thing. We can always write something on the page. If I find myself struggling, I try to focus on something else for a bit. Perhaps read a book, do some editing, marketing, or switch projects (I have a couple going at the same time). Stepping away and smashing your laptop into smithereens helps sometimes, too.
IS THERE A FAVORITE CHARACTER YOU'VE WRITTEN?
Definitely, Owen from Even Though It's Breaking. He's complex; a tender soul with a tragic, dark past, yet you can't help but root for him. He was also the first male POV I wrote, and that was a fun challenge!
DO YOU MEET WITH BOOK CLUBS?
Yes, please, and thank you! I love meeting with book clubs and am available for local or online chats!
I also offer special discounted books and merchandise for book clubs.
WHAT BOOKS DID YOU READ GROWING UP?
I was a huge fan of The Boxcar Children, The Babysitter's Club, Matilda, The Twits, Where the Red Fern Grows, and Goosebumps! Just to name a few!
DO YOU HAVE ANY ADVICE FOR NEW WRITERS?
I still consider myself a new writer so I'm not sure I'm the best person to ask, but don't give up. Your craft is special, and your process will probably differ from every other author out there. Some say write every day, I say don't. Unless it's your full-time job. This is a hobby and a part-time gig for me, so I write only when I want to or when I feel inspired. Do your research, learn the industry, and go from there. But first, WRITE.
Have more questions for Shannon? Book an author interview or book club chat today!