Iva Ticic

What was your favorite book as a child?

Any of the “Famous Five” books by Enid Blyton. I loaned them all from the library one by one, and even then appreciated the joys of being a part of a community of readers — my childhood neighborhood friends. We all referenced the adventures of Julian, Dick, George, Anne and Timmy while playing our own games… it was lovely.

Do you remember the original reason or motivation why you started writing creatively?

I felt the power of it. I remember a moment in 3rd grade, when I was sitting in class doing a short writing assignment about spring and it dawned on me that however I phrased what I was writing, it was like waving a magical wand and bringing the season to life. I still get glimpses of that feeling at times.

What was the most adventurous or thrilling thing you ever did/experienced?

Maybe traveling to the murder capital of the world, San Pedro Sula Honduras, to volunteer and teach orphan girls poetry. Maybe moving to China for three years on my own. Maybe starting a US graduate school program of which I had no idea whether I could afford to complete it. Life has been a ride!

Do you listen to music while reading or writing?

Yes, whenever I have a chance. But I prefer it to be jazz or some other type of instrumental music. It helps the writing part of my brain to relax and it relieves pressure. Lyrics tend to creep up into the writing, so I am cautious of them!