Zuzana Minstrel

What was your favorite book as a child?

One of the earliest books I remember is White Fang by Jack London. Perhaps this was where my love for animal narrators began.

What was the original reason or motivation why you started writing creatively?

As a child, I was a huge bookworm and spent a lot of time in the library. I suppose it was only natural for me to pick up storytelling. I’ll never be able to thank my high school Slovak literature teacher enough. She patiently edited my short stories and helped me grow as a writer. Another formative influence was my French language and literature teacher, who taught us to analyse literary works and recognise the importance of every word. Although I abandoned writing for a decade after entering university, I still carry the lessons and guidance in my heart.

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

The most thrilling thing was the day we rescued Enzo. It was January 2021, freezing cold, the roads almost empty, and we drove across the country to save this abandoned, beaten-up cat. We weren’t even sure he would ever adapt to indoor life — well, now, he’s a cuddle bug who sleeps between our pillows every night.

Do you listen to music while reading or writing? Why/why not?

Absolutely! Music is the driving force behind my writing. I often put one specific song that fits the mood of a chapter on repeat.