From sharing stories with family and friends to becoming a published author, Diann Floyd Boehm reflects on her literary journey and enduring belief in the power of storytelling
INTERVIEW
Author, educator, and speaker Diann Floyd Boehm began writing about twenty years ago while teaching computer classes. ‘At the time, I was not submitting my work for publication; I simply shared my stories with family and friends to gather their thoughts and feedback,’ she says, speaking with Literary Harbinger in an exclusive interaction. What began as a personal creative pursuit gradually developed into a publishing career that has seen her work with both hybrid and traditional publishers and produce books that are aimed at young readers.
From Storyteller to Published Author
Looking back on her publishing journey, Boehm describes the transition from unpublished storyteller to published author as a long one. ‘It is a story that could easily fill a book of its own,’ the writer jokes. ‘To keep it brief, I chose the hybrid publishing route, and through OC Publishing in Canada, I was able to hold my first published book in my hands.’
Boehm says that Anne O’Connell, the owner of OC Publishing, played an important role in that journey. ‘She not only believed in my stories but also guided me through the publishing world with generosity and insight. I truly would not be where I am today without her mentorship,’ she shares. Over time, the writer expanded her publishing experience and developed close professional associations with both OC Publishing and Plum Creek Press.
Boomer’s Latest Adventure
Boehm’s latest book, Boomer Hears the Forest: The Curious Bunny Book II, is scheduled for release on August 4. Introducing the book’s central character, she says, ‘Boomer is an inquisitive little bunny who loves discovering new things.’
‘In this story, he sets out to explore the many sounds of the forest, inviting young readers to experience curiosity and wonder alongside him,’ she adds. The forthcoming title follows the curious bunny as he explores the natural world and encounters the sounds that fill the forest around him.
A Creative Process That Evolves Naturally
Discussing her approach to writing, Boehm, who is based in Texas and whose academic credentials include a Bachelor of Science in Education from George Mason University, a Kindergarten Endorsement from the University of Texas at Austin, and a distance learning certificate from Texas A&M University, describes herself as a pantser. ‘I begin with an idea and allow the story to unfold naturally as I write,’ she explains.
‘Once the first draft is complete, I begin shaping the story until it is finished. You would call this the time I organised the story,’ she tells us. Rather than working from a rigid outline, she allows the narrative to develop before refining and organising it through revision.
Books That Left a Lasting Impression
Asked whether there are authors from whom she draws inspiration, Boehm says she does not follow any one writer. Instead, she is drawn to stories aligned with her current interests.
‘I enjoy both contemporary works and classics. Two that come to mind are The Far Pavilions and Beautiful Joe, each of which left a lasting impression on me,’ she shares. Boehm, who has also studied Spanish, French, and German, continues to read widely across a variety of literary traditions.
A Conscious Decision to Become an Author
Although storytelling has always been part of her life, Boehm says becoming an author was a deliberate decision. ‘There came a point when I made the conscious decision to put my stories into print,’ she says.
‘If you had asked me in high school whether I would become an author, I likely would have laughed. My teachers might have noted my creativity as well as my need to improve my grammar. I like to think they would be proud of the journey I have taken since then,’ she shares.
New Projects on the Horizon
Boehm says she enjoys writing during the quiet hours of the morning with birds cooing and singing in the background. She also notes that she tends to write when inspiration strikes and remains immersed in a project until it is complete. When she is not writing, she pursues a variety of creative and outdoor activities.
‘I enjoy singing, gardening, quilting, and sewing. I also like to travel with my husband, and when we can, we do some white-water rafting,’ she says. ‘I have gone rappelling, spelunking, and I have travelled by dogsled and snowmobile in the Arctic. These experiences free my mind, and before I know it, more stories are bubbling up, ready to come to life.’
Boehm currently has several projects underway, including a book for tween readers. ‘I am also revising two previously published works for future re-release,’ she reveals. ‘Besides Boomer Hears the Forest: The Curious Bunny Book II, I have another book titled Humphrey the Camel, which is scheduled for release later this year,’ she lets on. The projects add to a growing body of work that continues to span different themes and age groups.
Perspective on Writing and the World
Offering advice to aspiring authors, Boehm emphasises the importance of focusing on the stories themselves. ‘Not every author will become a bestseller or achieve financial success, and that is perfectly all right. What truly matters are the stories you have to share. There will always be readers who connect with your words and find meaning in them. Write for fulfilment. Write to give something of yourself to others. When you focus on that purpose, the motivation to continue becomes much stronger.’
She continues, ‘If you have a story within you and dream of becoming an author, I encourage you to pursue it. There can never be too many stories in the world, and there will always be someone who needs to hear yours.’
Asked what she would change in the world if given the opportunity, Boehm points to a single aspiration. ‘I would like to usher in an era of peace; it is disheartening to see how often conflict has shaped human history,’ she says. The desire for a more peaceful world is the change that Boehm identifies when reflecting on broader global concerns. With that thought, the author signs off, bringing to a close a conversation that touched upon her writing journey, creative process, forthcoming books, and advice for aspiring writers.
If you have a story within you and dream of becoming an author, I encourage you to pursue it. There can never be too many stories in the world, and there will always be someone who needs to hear yours.
~ DIANN FLOYD BOEHM
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