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Creative Spotlight on Author Matthew Bennett Young
Meet a fun new author with this Creative Spotlight on Author Matthew Bennett Young. His imagination is amazing, and his creations are well thought out. I was inspired by the thought process he used to create his books. Check out these extra questions that may or may not have been featured in our live chat.
Tell our readers briefly about yourself.
I love to be outside. I grew up in the countryside in the UK and was always out of the house. I love building and renovation/recycling/upcycling. I love to cook and am particularly interested in vegan cooking. Trying to keep fit! Like listening to the radio.
Can you tell us about your most recent release?
My most recent work hasn't been published yet but is almost ready. It's called "What's your favourite colour?' and it's about the power of collaboration and teamwork. Combining strengths.
What inspires you?
Seeing/experiencing other creators and their work and methods.
What is your creative work routine like? Do you balance it with another job?
I try to work in the morning. Yes, I'm also an RA at McGill. And a single father!
Do you plan out your creations? What is your creative process like?
Basic plan of what I want to do, and then I like to surprise myself during the creative process. I think it's very important to keep it a little organic.
Do you have a self-care routine, or do you want to have one? What do you do or wish that you did to take care of your mental health?
I try to use my bicycle as much as possible around the city. Also yoga and take the kids swimming. Eat well.
What is your favorite creation thus far?
Spaceball
Do you have a character that is your favorite over others you've written into creation?
Farmer Barrow
Are there any recurring themes in your work?
All my books are designed to get the reader to reflect on their own experience and possibly examine their influences and opinions.
What does success look like to you, considering your creative passion?
Readers that you don't know personally that enjoy the work.
What has been one of the biggest lessons you've learned since starting this journey?
Keep going! Perseverance. Complete the work. You can always go back and change something later. Revise the work. In many ways, it's never finished.
What advice would you share with new or aspiring authors/singers/artists/etc?
Same as above.
Where do you get your ideas for world-building?
From the ether. A capacity to make connections is very important. Try and think about things in different ways. Slow down sometimes!
What genre do you prefer to read?
Drama
Do you have any outside experiences that influenced your work?
Becoming a father I think - all creativity is linked through a spirit of inspiration.
Where can our viewers/readers/listeners find you and your work?