Stewart O'Nan

I've always been a big reader.

When I'm writing, I try to have the mask of my character on as I'm walking through the world.

The story is always in service to the characters, and is only as long or short, or neat or ragged as it needs to be.

I take big risks, but I'm not reckless about it.

I wanted to be a teacher, but I was a lousy student, one of the slowest readers. It was a tremendous struggle. But I'm lucky I had some teachers who saw something in me.

I confess that I listen to my own music for my own pleasure.