Kirsten Sheley Interview - Author of Partners in Time Part 2
by Paul Dale Roberts
(Elk Grove, CA USA)
The Cover of the Book
I became a fan of the Sci-Fi series “Ghosthunters” and, thinking about how I didn’t know many people down here (in Sacramento), I thought I’d see if they had any local clubs in that vein. This was probably October 2004 or 2005. So I did some digging and stumbled across the organization on MeetUp. At the time, the group was run by a different person, Mike. I think Shannon, John, and I were the only three to show up at the first meeting, and definitely showed up consistently. It really took off after Mike stepped down and Shannon took over.
Question: If you had 6 dinner guests at your table, 3 fictional, 3 real, who
would they be and why?
For real people, I think I’d have to pick: Michael J. Fox, Bob Gale (the writer/producer of the BTTF films), and author Christopher Pike. I have admired Michael J. Fox for a very long time, and I feel like if I met him, I could die happy. I would love to pick the brains of Bob Gale and Christopher Pike about their writing. Bob Gale created my favorite fictional world, and Christopher Pike has been a favorite author of mine since I was 10, and definitely influenced my own writing. Both of them seem to write a lot of multi-genre stuff, too.
For fictional, Marty McFly, Doc Brown, and Sam Beckett (from “Quantum Leap”). I think it’s probably fairly obvious with Marty McFly and Doc Brown -- they are, hands down, my favorite characters ever. Sam Beckett would be fun to meet because he’s also a time traveler, and he seems like a cool guy.
Rereading these answers, I think one can conclude I’m really a geek!
Question: What are your hobbies and recreational activities?
Beyond writing and ghost chasing, I’m a huge history buff. I also like reading, exercising, shopping, road trips, and spending time with my friends and family.
Question: What books do you read?
I used to read books based on the plot synopsis I’d see on the back. Then I got into horror novels as a teenager and read books based on who was the author. Christopher Pike is still a favorite of mine. I then moved into Stephen King and Dean Koontz territory. But now I’m back to reading based more on a plot or premise than anything else. And I go through phases. For a while, I read all the time travel books I could get my hands on. Another time, it was post-apocalyptic fiction. Right now I’m reading a lot of non-fiction books about pirates to prepare for my next book.
Question: What cartoons/TV shows do you watch?
“Family Guy” and “American Dad” are favorites. I also like “Ghost hunters,” “ER” and “Reaper” right now. And I’m slowly rewatching all the episodes of “Quantum Leap” on DVD!
Question: Last question - any words of wisdom for the readers?
I always loved the quote attributed to Doc Brown in the BTTF films: “If you put your mind to it, you can accomplish anything.” I find that to be true. If you want something, do it. Stop talking about “someday” and put your money where your mouth is! Try your best to achieve because, let’s face it, life is short. No one seems to regret action; they regret inaction.
