Full Transcript from Yesterday’s Penguin Live Chat with Jane Green!

Jane Green

1:56

Reading Room Admin:  

Hi everyone and welcome to Penguin’s Water Cooler.   We’re so pleased to have Jane Green with us here today to take questions. Her new novel Dune Road is just out in hardcover and her previous novel The Beach House is new in paperback.

1:57

Jane Green:  Thank you! It's great to be here

1:57

[Comment From Kristen OConnell ] 
Great–thanks. I'm excited to be here

1:57

[Comment From Trish ] 
Hi Jane!

1:58

[Comment From Sarah ] 
Hi! This is exciting!

1:58

Jane Green:  Hi everyone. Trish – nice to see you here!

1:58

[Comment From Trish ] 
Did you enjoy your trip to Toronto, Jane?

1:59

Jane Green:  Toronto was great. I'm always amazed at how nice Canadians are!

1:59

[Comment From Sarah Gillard ] 
Hi Jane, really looking forward to reading dune road.

1:59

Jane Green:  And it's a great city – feels like it would be easy to live in.

1:59

[Comment From Melissa ] 
Hi! Thanks for doing this, sounds like it'll be fun!

1:59

[Comment From Trish ] 
Aww, I'm glad. We are nice people, aren't we?

1:59

Jane Green:  I also get to stay in fantastic hotels, order room service, WITH NO SCREAMING CHILDREN

1:59

[Comment From Trish ] 
lol, I bet that's the fun part!

2:00

[Comment From Clinton Wilson ] 
How many screming children do you live with?

2:00

Jane Green:  This time I changed hotels because first one wasn't so great, and treated myself to a martini in the rooftop bar. That's when you feel like a bestselling author. Most of the time you just feel like a harried mom

2:00

[Comment From Sarah Gillard ] 
Sounds like bliss, I am currently ignoring my screaming children to talk to you he he

2:00

[Comment From Guest ] 
What are you reading now?

2:00

Jane Green:  six kids. We're the modern brady bunch, except i have four, he has two

2:00

[Comment From Trish ] 
You are a harried Mum. But at the same time, you are the best selling author.

2:00

Jane Green:  Am about to start a book by Judith Hendrickson who wrote Bread Alone which i loved.

2:01

[Comment From Courtney ] 
Jane, where did you get your idea for your new novel, Dune Road?

2:01

Jane Green:  And just finished Perfection by Julie Metz which was wonderful

2:01

[Comment From Kathryn ] 
I just finished The Beach House and it was amazing! I can't wait to read Dune Road! =)

2:01

[Comment From Nicole ] 
What a wonderful way for us to interact with you and learn more about your books, especially Dune Road!

2:01

Jane Green:  I really wanted to try a thriller with Dune Road…

2:01

Jane Green:  more as an intellectual exercise. I wanted to do something that was a little more plot-driven

2:02

[Comment From Julie ] 
Is it hard being a best selling author with 6 kids? Sounds like The Von Trapps to me!

2:02

[Comment From Kristen OConnell ] 
Wow–that is a busy house. Jane, how do you find the time to write?

2:02

Jane Green:  I enjoyed writing it, but it's back to the usual show for the next one.

2:02

[Comment From Trish ] 
Funny, I'm currently reading some book about a Beach House by some author who's name escapes me…

2:02

Jane Green:  You have to be enormously disciplined with a large and busy family. Luckily they're all in grade school now, so as soon as they leave on the bus I'm off to the library with my lap top.

2:02

[Comment From Guest ] 
Not to jump too far ahead, but are you already working on your next book?

2:03

Jane Green:  I write for around 3 hours a day, so I'm always done by lunchtime, and back to being mom.

2:03

Jane Green:  YES! i'm totally getting ready for the next one. All my ideas and characters seem to come to me on planes and trains, and I've spent the last couple of weeks scribbling away whilst travelling around on book tour

2:03

[Comment From Stephanie ] 
Jane, out of all the amazing books you have wrote, which one is your favorite?

2:03

[Comment From Sarah Gillard ] 
its sounds fantastic, my best friend has already read it and thought it was one of your best, so can not wait.

2:04

[Comment From Guest ] 
Which of your books is your favorite?

2:04

[Comment From Trish ] 
I'm glad you're going back to "normal". I did enjoy Girl Friday, but I do love you usual style. My fave is Jemima J.

2:04

Jane Green:  I love The Beach House because it marked a new beginning for me. The end of a marriage that wasn't right, and the beginning of a new start with Beloved, who was my landlord, and is now my husband.

2:04

[Comment From BookFinds ] 
Do you enjoy blogging? ((because we love how active you are online!))

2:04

Jane Green:  I also loved Bookends. I think I enjoy writing ensemble pieces far more.

2:05

[Comment From Courtney] 
Is it hard to write every day? How do you keep on going–do you always have ideas or does it require a lot of discipline?

2:05

[Comment From Kristin] 
Hi Jane, I asked this on your blog, but I'll ask it here as well. You mentioned that you thought you weren't cut out for mystery writing. Can you expand on that? I loved the mystery part of Dune Road,

2:05

Jane Green:  I do enjoy blogging, and it's shockingly time-consuming. But, necessary and a wonderful way to keep in touch with my readers. I will be blogging later today about a house renovation we've just done – the before and after pictures are astounding!

2:05

[Comment From Katie Little] 
Hello Jane!

2:05

[Comment From Trish] 
Awww, that's sweet. I

2:06

Jane Green:  Thank you Kristin. I found it terribly complicated to plot, and actually ended up removing an awful lot of the mystery. I felt like I put less 'heart' into it because I was more focused on the plot than the characters…

2:06

[Comment From Rhiana] 
Do you usually outline your whole entire story before you start writing it? Or do you prefer to just sit down and write to see where it takes you?

2:06

[Comment From Must Read Faster] 
Is it hard to be a Mom and travel so much? Does that get in the way with your writing? And another what do you think of book bloggers and blog tours?

2:07

Jane Green:  I outline the theme and the message, and then work on the characters, and to a great extent I let the characters tell their own story. So this next is about sisters, and one gets sick, and then it becomes about the choices we make, and the notion of love being a verb – loving someone requires acts of love…

2:07

[Comment From Jeff]
In terms of your writing process, do you write in a computer, or in longhand? And how much do you revise?

2:07

[Comment From Sarah Gillard]
sounds fantastic! bit of a tear jerker?

2:07

Jane Green:  I actually don't travel much at all – only once a year in June, and even then, because I am divorced, I only travel on the nights my children are with their father, so they're not aware of me not being here at all. I feel enormously blessed in having a job where I get to work and feel fulfilled, and at the same time get to be a mostly full-time mother…

2:07

Kristen OConnell:  The new book sounds great, will it be ready for next summer?

2:07

[Comment From Trish]
Your blog is an amazing place Jane. Thank you so much for creating that enviroment for us.

2:08

[Comment From Katie Little]
When is your next book coming out?

2:08

Jane Green:  Sarah – i think yes, it will be a bit of a tear-jerker, and will be out next june. however, no idea what the ending will be…

2:08

[Comment From Melissa]
Can you tell us more about the cooking/lifestyle show you mentioned a few weeks back? Love your books, blog, tweets, etc. 🙂

2:08

[Comment From Must Read Faster]
Sounds awesome! thanks for answering my question 🙂

2:08

Jane Green:  i write the chapters on a computer, but write all the initial notes longhand in a small notebook that i carry with me.

2:08

[Comment From Julie]
I love mystery/thrillers, did you read any good ones for "research" you can recommend?

2:08

[Comment From Rhiana]
Hmmm interesting. Is it okay to write scenarios or events that aren't necessarily the most realistic because it is fiction or do you think it's important to stick to facts?

2:08

[Comment From Robyn]
The story of the sisters sounds good, can't wait.

2:09

Jane Green:  i just filmed a pilot for a lifestyle show that may or may not hit the screens…you never know with tv, but i am passionate about the home, and cooking, and gathering family and friends, in an atmosphere that's warm and inviting, rather than stunningly perfect and cold…it's all about putting the heart back into the home.

2:09

[Comment From Jordi]
Hi, Jane! here's a question: Robert McClore, in Girl Friday, is a writer – did u get inspiration from your own experience as a bestselling author to write about him?

2:10

Jane Green:  Jordi (HELLO!!) i loved being able to write about being a writer with robert mcclore – it was wonderful to really draw upon my own experiences

2:10

[Comment From BookFinds]
How do you come up with your plots? How do you create such vivid, honest characters?

2:10

[Comment From Rachel]
Have you written your books to follow your life story? It seems most of your older novels were about young, single women in the UK and then divorce and relationships across the UK and US and now starting over.

2:11

[Comment From Melissa]
It sounds interesting Jane. Thanks for answering my question. I'd definitely watch. You seem to be able to do it all. 🙂

2:11

Jane Green:  Rhiana, interesting question. I am more comfortable writing about the human condition, and even if it's not something I have experienced – Daniel in Beach House, etc etc – I think it's easier to write about things that are close to what you know, or to what your friends know.

2:11

[Comment From Guest]
Good Question Rachel 🙂

2:11

[Comment From Kristin]
How do you write in the summer when the kids aren't in school? Do you take a break or do you continue your routine.

2:11

[Comment From Joan]
I'd be curious to read that book having been very sick at one point in my life and my sister helped me recouperate.

2:12

Jane Green:  Rachel – too true. I know some of the readers picking up the earlier books feel let down by what I'm writing now, but I have to be true to myself, and honestly, i just haven't got any desire to write about young single girls anymore…

2:12

Jane Green:  Kristin – camp. (THANK GOD)

2:12

[Comment From Sarah Fu]
As a successful bestselling female author, do you consider yourself a "feminist" writer?

2:12

[Comment From Katie Little]
Regarding books coming out, do they come out same time as UK? or no

2:13

[Comment From JamiDru]
Rachel, I've noticed that as well!

2:13

Jane Green:  Sarah Fu – good question. I suppose I consider myself a post-feminist writer, but I think that defines me as a woman. I believe wholly in women, and in women's ability to do whatever in life makes them happy, and all of my books are about women on that journey to find happiness and peace, finding it wherever they may.

2:13

[Comment From Sarah Gillard]
See we don't have summer camps really over here in England, there is a lot to be said for living in the US!

2:13

[Comment From JamiDru]
Do you do all of your chapter writting out of house? Sounds like it's mostly at the library.

2:14

Jane Green:  I do all my chapter writing at the library, yes.

2:14

[Comment From Kristin]
Do you use a writing software program such as Write it Now?

2:14

[Comment From Meghan]
You mentioned that you drew inspiration for your newest book while on your recent travels, how do you usually go about the process of creating new characters?

2:14

Jane Green:  God, no. Writing program? Had no idea there WAS such a thing…where do i buy it? Does it make it easier?

2:14

[Comment From Loretta]
Jane !! Love You And Your Books 🙂 Are you wrking on anything new ? Maybe for next summer ( Hint Hint )

2:15

Jane Green:  The characters really do come to me, and the idea for the latest is drawn from events in my own life, in that a close friend of mine is unwell, and it has forced me to reconsider what it is to be a friend, and what it is to show someone you love them.

2:15

Jane Green:  Loretta – scroll up for more info!

2:15

[Comment From Joan]
I'm curious – are you able to live the vegan lifestyle while traveling? I did try the chickpea fritters and they were easy and very tasty. Thanks for posting that recipe.

2:15

[Comment From Katie Little]
what other authors do you read if any?

2:16

[Comment From Kristin]
Yes, there are several, but I have only used WriteItNow. It enables you to skip back and forth between chapters and character outlines.

2:16

Jane Green:  You're welcome Joan! My whole philosophy with cooking is it has to be easy but look like you've slaved for hours, because honestly, who has the time? It is hard to do the vegan thing while travelling. I consider myself as having a vegan intention, but if I need to get protein from fish or egg whites when I'm on the road and there's nothing else, I'm better off taking care of myself that way.

2:16

[Comment From Kirsty]
Hi Jane, what advice can you give to people who want to write a novel of their own? :)xx

2:17

[Comment From Loretta]
Thanks Jane !! Cant Wait !!

2:17

[Comment From Nicole]
Have you ever considered writing a series?

2:17

Jane Green:  I think i would get confused skipping back and forth. I tend to write in a linear fashion. Start at the beginning, and go on to the end. And my advice to would-be novelists is finish it: anyone can start a book, but few can finish it. It requires determination and discipline.

2:18

Jane Green:  I did consider Dune Road as being first in a series, but not now. If I had characters who I felt needed to be continued, I would, although for the first time I revisited characters in Dune Road – we have a brief appearance from Alice from To Have and To Hold.

2:18

[Comment From Melissa]
I noticed that many of your titles have different names in the UK and US. Do you have input in the titles? Just curious why they were different.

2:19

[Comment From Kristin]
I would like to write in linear fashion, but it seems when I get to chapter 5, I have to go back to ch 2 and change something. I spend a lot of time doing that…is there a cure for that?

2:20

Jane Green:  I read tons of other authors, but I mostly remember books rather than authors. Happens Every Day by Isabel Gillies was moving and raw, and I love Dani Shapiro, Jonathan Tropper and Armistead Maupin. Anyone who hasn't read the Tales of the City series ought to go and one click it RIGHT THIS MINUE

2:20

Jane Green:  Melissa, the publishers feel very strongly that what works in one market would not work in another. I am very anti the different titles, but have had to trust their judgment.

2:21

[Comment From Sarah Gillard]
Apart from writing and being a mum, what do you do for you time?

2:21

Jane Green:  Kristin – I don't know. It's very different to how I do it…is it changing something because it affects the storyline or because you realise you don't like it?

2:22

Kristen OConnell:  Hello!

2:22

Jane Green:  Sarah – I garden obsessively – grow my own fruit and veg where possible, cook for the hundreds of family and friends that are always in my house, read when I can, waste valuable time shopping for crap on the internet, renovate beach cottages, am building a house, and, erm…possibly filming a tv show… (I'm exhausted just typing this…)

2:22

Jane Green:  Hello Kristen!

2:22

[Comment From Trish]
Do you feel that your amazing (and friendly) blog has helped you to gain loyal readers?

2:22

[Comment From Sophie]
What's your time split between writing fiction and blogging? As you say, blogging takes a lot of time. Do you wish you had more time for blogging, or for fiction?

2:23

Jane Green:  Trish, I don't know if it has brought me new readers, but it's certainly helped establish loyalty and friendships with existing readers. I wish I had more time generally, Sophie. But blogging doesn't take long – the hardest part is thinking of something to write about. Luckily I was trained as a journalist so I can pretty much knock out 500 words in my sleep…

2:24

[Comment From Loretta]
Would this be a reality Tv show ?

2:24

[Comment From Guest]
Since you were raised in London, have you given thought to writing another novel set London, maybe this time not about about the single life?

2:24

Jane Green:  I think a bit of a combo: a bit reality, a bit learning, a bit inspirational…

2:24

[Comment From Kirsty]
Hi Jane! Do you edit as you go along or at the end of the first draft? x

2:24

Jane Green:  Second Chance was set in London, and I think there will always be an English element to my books, whether it's a character, or a vacation…something!

2:24

[Comment From Melissa]
I understand. Thanks Jane. 🙂

2:25

[Comment From Sarah Gillard]
ah bless you.. I have decided that you are not only an amazing writer but also wonder woman. Please can I have a bit of you energy xx

2:25

[Comment From Rhiana]
Thanks for answering my questions. I already have another. What age range do you think your books attract? I am personally only 22 years old, but I find interest in all of your books regardless of what point in the main character's life the plot takes place. So, I'm just curious if it surprises you how vast of an age range your books might appeal to?

2:25

Jane Green:  Kirsty, if I edited as I went along I fear I'd never get the bloody thing finished! I do a quick read through of every chapter the day after I finish it, tweak it, then leave the proper edits until the end when I read the whole thing through.

2:25

[Comment From Susan]
With six kids and your own writing, it's hard to imagine that you have time to read, but when (if?) you do, what do you like to read?

2:25

Jane Green:  Sarah – I call myself Superwoman!

2:26

Jane Green:  (and I wonder why I have bags under my eyes…)

2:26

[Comment From Melissa]
Looks like there are 2 Melissa's here! Jane, I've read your books in the order you wrote them and I really appreciate how you have grown and changed as a woman, mother, etc. and how that shows in your writing.

2:26

Jane Green:  Rhiana, my earlier books appeal to the younger readers, but now I've pulled in a ton of older ladies with Nan in the Beach House. I adore them! When I do book events now the room is filled with women aged 16 – 80-something. It's fantastic.

2:27

[Comment From Melissa]
Do your children give any thought to what you do? Or are they like most children oblivious ~lol~

2:27

Jane Green:  Thank you Melissa. I very much feel the books have charted the course of my life, and thankfully I am a much nicer person today. Motherhood has softened me and made me more vulnerable, and that definitely comes across in my writing.

2:27

[Comment From Kirsty]
Ha! Thanks, Jane!

2:27

[Comment From Katie Little]
Jane have you met other authors? do they offer insight?

2:28

Jane Green:  My children are NOT oblivious. Mini-me, my 70=-year-old, regularly tells people her mother is a VERY FAMOUS AUTHOR CALLED JANE GREEN HAVE YOU READ HER BECAUSE SHE'S VERY FAMOUS…

2:28

[Comment From Loretta]
Jane is seems like the UK book are released earlier then the US, why is that ?

2:28

[Comment From Kristin]
I realize something new about the character, such as they love plants, so I feel the need to go back and expand on that. Do you already know everything about your characters so you don't have to do that?

2:28

[Comment From Guest]
You've said on your blog that you are a beauty junkie…what's your current skincare routine? ((you seem to have a flawless complexion!))

2:28

Jane Green:  Katie, met lots of other authors. Am doing an event with Jennifer Weiner in a couple of weeks, and my new virtual best friend is Gigi Levangie Granger – she sends me hilarious facebook messages.

2:29

Jane Green:  Loretta, this year the books came out at the same time.

2:29

Jane Green:  Kristin, no, they reveal themselves to me as I write.

2:29

[Comment From Megan]
How do you decide what to blog about? I would love to step into the blogging world and begin writing but I can never figure out what I should write about… I do love reading your blog and twitter updates!

2:29

[Comment From Becky]
Hi Jane,really enjoy your books!! Just wondering what got you into writing? I love reading & would love to get into writing, was it a hard process?

2:29

[Comment From Nicole]
Well, it's wonderful to see characters resurface in books (even if there isn't an official series)! Your characters are easy to identify with and are powerful role models.

2:29

[Comment From JamiDru]
btw, bookends was a bit of a life changing inspirational book for me, and discovering your blog, and your life style and your ability to juggle it all, and go after what you want… it's refreshing and a bit inspiring, esp since it's all accompanied by wit!

2:29

[Comment From Guest]
I've found that I've matured with your books too. I love it and I can honestly say that there is not a single book that I have not identified with, or a single character I didn't understand.

2:29

[Comment From Melissa]
LOL 🙂

2:30

[Comment From Loretta]
oh ok , I'm loving this live chat !! Thanks Jane for your time 🙂

2:30

Jane Green:  Guest? I LOVE YOU. my complexion isn't quite flawless, but I do love the natural stuff. My skin always looks best with the Jurlique beauty routine, and Eve Lom is also fantastic but sadly it causes an allergic reaction with my eyes…so…jurlique is the answer

2:31

[Comment From Trish]
Do you feel proud of your blog and of the warm enviroment it has become. Do you think it has helped you gain loyal readers?

2:31

[Comment From Kristin]
I agree with Loretta, this live chat is so much fun. Thank you Jane

2:31

Jane Green:  Thanks Loretta! Megan, it is hard thinking what to blog about. Sometimes it's funny things the kids do, sometimes work-related stuff, and often how I feel about things. I had a rip-roaring time with Sarah Palin… And when all else fails including inspiration, I throw up a recipe!

2:31

[Comment From Devon]
Hi Jane, I just signed in and am catching up on the convo, but I just wanted to say what a HUGE fan I am. I hav read all of your books and cannot wait to read your next one!

2:31

Jane Green:  Trish, I am enormously proud. It's wonderful to see people who have followed from the beginning. That's what keeps me doing – I aim to update daily.

2:32

[Comment From Steve]
How many men are typically at your readings? Do you wish there were more?

2:32

Jane Green:  Thank you Devon! Next one will be out June 2010 (oh GOD, cannot believe I know that already, which also means I need to start writing).

2:32

[Comment From Sarah Gillard]
is there any chance that one of you books may be made into a film, as i think they would make the transition really well

2:32

[Comment From Loretta]
YEAH !!!!

2:33

[Comment From Trish]
What achievement in your career are you most proud of?

2:33

[Comment From Sophie]
Also, I like how the last couple of covers have had the same design. Will that be the same with all the books going forward? And did you have any input?

2:33

Jane Green:  I love hearing from my male readers. They're always surprised at how much they enjoy my books. A journalist recently had an interesting insight: he said my understanding of male characters was really different in the more recent books, that I seemed to have a true male perspective in a way I hadn't before…

2:34

Jane Green:  I explained that for many years I was in a marriage where communication wasn't at the forefront, and now I'm married to a man who NEVER STOPS TALKING.

2:34

[Comment From Becky]
How long does it take it put together and complete a book?you must have so much inspiration!

2:34

[Comment From Trish]
Well, I can honestly say that you and your blog saved me when I was at my lowest. And I can never thank you and your fab readers for that! ((hugs))

2:34

[Comment From Melissa]
Jane, I must say that I love your blog and hope you keep it up. I wish more authors would do it more. Do you have any plans to come to NC on a book-tour signing? I know you've got tons of fans here who'd love to meet you. 🙂

2:34

[Comment From kelly]
have just read beach house fantastic am looking forward to girl friday. is dune road coming out in the uk?

2:34

Jane Green:  Sophie, I adore the new designs, and I think Penguin have done an amazing job of branding me, so yes, for the time being, this is the look…

2:34

Jane Green:  Kelly, Dune Road is called Girl Friday in the UK – same book.

2:35

[Comment From Yen]
As someone who has been writing books for (mostly) women for many years now, how do you think chick lit / women's fiction has changed over the years?

2:35

Jane Green:  Becky, about the same as creating a baby – nine months (although under pressure could do it in six).

2:35

[Comment From Magda]
Hi, Any chance of tempting you down to the sunny Italy? like, for a reading? You know, it's the place where they actually MAKE the Martini 🙂

2:35

[Comment From Jocelyn]
Thanks for answering my beauty secret question… Now I have another…If stranded on a desert island, what are the five things you could not live without.

2:36

[Comment From Sarah Gillard]
oh fab question Jocelyn!

2:36

[Comment From Becky]
LOL excellent – as much pain??

2:36

[Comment From Annie]
Hi Jane, Just wanted you to know I just finished reading Beach House and thoroughly enjoyed it. It was the first opportuinity to read your work and can't wait to read Dune Road. You have a new follower. Thanks

2:36

Jane Green:  Am very conflicted about 'chick lit'. On one hand proud to have been part of such an important movement, because it really does speak to women in a way other books don't, reflecting their lives with emotional honestly, but it's also negative, and makes most people think of a young 20-something tripping down the street in fabulous high heels looking for love… something i haven't done for years

2:36

[Comment From Sophie]
Which could you do in six months in a pinch, the baby or the book?! 😉

2:36

Jane Green:  Sophie, as the mother of a set of twins, I'd have to say both!

2:37

Jane Green:  Jocelyn…thinking…thinking…thinking…

2:37

Jane Green:  okay. got it. 1) Razor

2:37

[Comment From Jordi]
There's a lot of reference to France in your books (and I'm so proud of it haha!), especially in The Other Woman – do like France? and would you consider coming there?

2:37

Jane Green:  seriously. the legs would not be a pretty sight when rescued…

2:37

[Comment From Kristin]
How do you balance your children's privacy with what you blog about? Do they ever get mad about what you say?

2:37

Jane Green:  2) kindle

2:38

[Comment From Rob and Steve]
Hi Jane, any plans on moving back to the country and growing your own vegie's and collecting your eggs from your chickens?

2:38

[Comment From Loretta]
Jane I have to go back to work now but thank you so much

2:38

[Comment From Annie]
Hi Jane,

2:38

[Comment From Rhiana]
Soooo wish I could go to that even with you and Jennifer–my two fav authors under one roof would pretty much make my life. Anyway, do you think it is necessarily to have a degree in journalism or writing in order to become a writer?

2:38

Jane Green:  Kristin, I am very careful generally with what I blog about, and even then I still get into trouble. There is a book called the Four Agreements, and in it one says 'be immaculate with your word". I believe in Karma, and in treating people with kindness and respect, and in the same way you wish to be treated. Whether that's in person, or online. I wish more people could do the same…

2:38

[Comment From Cat]
Hi Jane! Although I used to live in Stamford and work in Westport (I actually found out you were a local from an employee at the Fairfield Borders years back!) I never got to meet you at any local readings. I now live in London (guess you can say we've switched places!) and am so jealous that you've been reading locally! Any chance you'll come across the pond soon to do a reading???

2:39

[Comment From kelly]
is there any chance you are coming to the uk to do some book signings…..

2:39

Jane Green:  My boyfriends!! I'm planning on moving to the beach and growing my own veggies and chickens!

2:39

[Comment From Becky]
I think jemima J is one of my fav books read it a lot! Did you base it on someone you knew/met? Its a great story!!!

2:39

Jane Green:  Cat, hopefully next year!

2:39

[Comment From Katie Little]
how are book tours worked out and where u travel to?

2:40

[Comment From Kristin]
Agreed! That philosphy really comes out in your writing.

2:40

Jane Green:  Becky, I started off thinking it was based on a roommate of mine, but in fact Jemima very swiftly became her own person, who was entirely different from my roommate. That is so often the case: you think you're writing about someone, but in fact they serve as the inspiration for a characters who becomes completely real.

2:40

[Comment From Emmy]
hi Jane! love your books!! just wondering if you ever miss actually holding a book, turning the pages, etc. when using a Kindle? I think I would miss the "book" aspect of it all…..

2:41

Jane Green:  Emmy, I LOVE books. The real thing. And bookstores. BUT…when I'm travelling, and for those disposable books (Can anyone spell Twilight???), the kindle is GREAT.

2:41

[Comment From Trish]
What is a Kindle???

2:41

Jane Green:  3) Earplugs

2:41

Jane Green:  Kindle is an electronic reader – like a computer with just books on it. From Amazon.

2:41

[Comment From gabrielle]
what was your favorite children's book growing up?

2:41

Jane Green:  not in the UK yet, but coming…

2:42

[Comment From Emmy]
ah, very true! thanks, Jane! 🙂

2:42

[Comment From Sarah Gillard]
Oh to the UK next year! That would be lovely. Will definitely be there. x Where's your favourite place over here in Blighty?

2:42

[Comment From Rachel]
In Dune Road Robert isn't a fan of chic lit. He seems to think it is a "cop-out" form of writing. Did you include that based on a particular person's feelings about the genre of books you write?

2:42

[Comment From Becky]
What has been your favourite book you've ever read and did it inspire you to become a writer?

2:42

[Comment From Ana]
How about books on cell phones? They have those in Japan, but you don't hear abut them much here (in the UK)

2:42

[Comment From Trish]
Ah cool. You can get 101 classics on a cartridge to read on the Nintendo DS. Thats quite cool.

2:43

Jane Green:  Gabrielle – GREAT question! I loved Flambards, The Enid Blyton boarding school books, anything by Noel Streatfield: White Boots; Ballet Shoes, The Pursuit of Love by Nancy Mitford (still recommended for grown ups today)

2:43

Jane Green:  Rachel, it was regurgitating people's dismissiveness of the genre, which I hate. I always think it's more reflective of their insecurity about admitting they like something commercial…

2:44

Jane Green:  Becky, favorite book ever still Brother of the More Famous Jack by Barbara Trapido.

2:44

[Comment From Guest]
If you weren't writing, what would you be doing?

2:44

Jane Green:  4) My children and husband (because, since he never stops talking, he would keep me entertained, and if it got boring I'd have the earplugs)

2:45

[Comment From Allison]
What do you make of authors who say that their books will never appear in electronic version so that it's able to be read on a Kindle? (I've read that J. K. Rowling has said this.) Did you have any qualms about your books being published in electronic form?

2:45

Jane Green:  Guest: Landscape architect; chef; interior designer; animal-rescuer…

2:45

[Comment From Tracy]
Jane why have some of your books got different titles in the UK?

2:45

[Comment From Melissa]
i am not familiar of the books that you have mentioned so I was wondering if there is a particular type of genre you like to read or do you like a variety?

2:46

[Comment From Jordi]
What did you buy yourself when you got your first BIG paycheck??? 😀

2:46

Jane Green:  Allison, as a supporter of the kindle, I have no qualms whatsoever. I also have neither the time, nor ego, to be precious about who and how people read my books. I am grateful they are continuing to read them in ever-increasing numbers.

2:46

[Comment From Trish]
My fave book as a child was Charlotte's Web. I still adore it…

2:46

[Comment From Becky]
Do you watch much TV? if so, what?

2:47

Jane Green:  Jordi, A proper car! I'd only ever driven second-hand piles of junk, so I bought myself a BMW. God I loved that car, but you know how they say red cars attract police attention more? It's true…

2:47

[Comment From Jocelyn]
What three words would you use to describe your books?

2:47

Jane Green:  Becky, I'd rather read, but Beloved has to fall asleep with the television, so I often find myself watching things like CSI, or Southlands, or Jesse James almost kills himself on an ice road type of thing…

2:48

Jane Green:  Jocelyn, Warm, witty and wise

2:48

[Comment From Emmy]
did you find that you were able to go from journalist to author pretty easily?

2:48

[Comment From Jocelyn]
great answer!

2:48

[Comment From Trish]
Good words Jane. They are perfect for you books, and for yourself , I think

2:49

[Comment From Jeanette]
How about your desert island discs? What would they be?

2:49

Jane Green:  Very easily, Emmy. The part I loved about being a journalist, was the writing, so it felt very natural. Also has been a great discipline to writing – I need each chapter as a feature that needs to be done.

2:49

[Comment From Rhiana]
Jane, how much research do you put into your books and which of them required the most?

2:50

[Comment From Emmy]
oh, I love that! 🙂

2:50

Jane Green:  Poses by Rufus Wainwright; The Blower's Daughter by Damien Rice; Band on the Run by Wings; Cinnamon Girl by Neil Young, Say Goodbye by Dave Matthews Band…

2:51

[Comment From Sarah Gillard]
All you leading men are described so well and leave lovely images in our heads, has there been any particular inspiration for these guys?

2:52

[Comment From Kirsty]
Poses is the most amazing song – good taste, girl!!

2:52

Jane Green:  Rhiana, I think my research is mostly done living my life… I am a huge observer of people, and fascinated by the human condition and what makes people do the things they do. I also live in a town that is filled with women who look as if they ought to have everything you would need to be happy, and yet it continues to elude them. As someone who has lived that life, and then been fortunate enough to come back down to earth and find true happiness, I am lucky enough to be able to write about it…

2:52

[Comment From Becky]
So do you dislike the Twilight series? Am I bad for loving it ;)? I really find I am torn between a mix of genres – I like so many different ones! How did you choose your genre?

2:52

Jane Green:  oh Sarah…I ought to describe my husband here, but you'd all be jealous…

2:52

[Comment From Jocelyn]
Have you ever had an idea for a book and then found another author just came out with a similar story…or do you just ignore that and forge ahead because every writer is different?

2:53

Jane Green:  Becky – I HATED the book, but then…oh God…then…I watched the movie…on the plane…AND I AM IN LOVE WITH EDWARD CULLEN.

2:53

[Comment From Rhiana]
Thanks Jane, that was a great answer!

2:53

[Comment From Jordi]
Are there times when you feel like you don't want to write anymore? Or times when you wish you did something else when you can't be bothered? 🙂

2:53

[Comment From Trish]
Aww Jane! It sounds like I am where you were not too long ago!! Just "divorced" and looking for happiness! I hope I'm as fortunate as you were and find my own "Beloved".

2:53

Jane Green:  Jocelyn, great question, and it happens more with movies. Everytime I finish a book that I think would make a great movie, a bloody movie comes out. With Swapping Lives it was Vacation, and then The Beach House came out just as Nights in Rodanthe (or something) did…

2:53

[Comment From Rhiana]
We're all in love with Edward Cullen, don't worry. 🙂

2:54

[Comment From Melissa]
Jane do you think you will ever write a book from a male's perspective, i.e. a male as the main character, in first person?

2:54

Jane Green:  Jordi – I feel that way a million times when I'm in the midst of writing. But the truth is, every time I near the end of one book, another story needs to be told.

2:54

[Comment From Becky]
ME TO! Crush alert! Edward Cullen :)! I did find the book a younger then I would usually read (I'm 24) although I did fall in love with the characters towards the end!

2:54

[Comment From Melissa]
Just curious, possibly silly, but has your husband or his daughters, family members, etc. read any of your books? Do you have them or anyone read chapters as you write? Thanks.

2:55

Jane Green:  but I'M FORTY ONE. Good Lord. Isn't this too old to be having crushes on teenagers? Someone said I must be turning into a cougar…

2:55

[Comment From Trish]
He's not really a teeneager Jane! Robert Pattinson is in his 20's I think…

2:55

Jane Green:  Melissa, no-one reads the books as I write them. When I am done, I hand them to my editor, my agent, and my husband. Then I wait on tenterhooks…

2:55

[Comment From Trish]
What is your favorite thing about being an author, about your life and job?

2:56

Jane Green:  Melissa, I think I am reaching a time where it is entirely possible I will write from the male perspective.

2:56

[Comment From Becky]
Ha ha!! Never to old! Do you find you are very critical when reading others books?

2:57

[Comment From Jeanette]
Wings but no Beatles? Get thee to a Fnac! 😉

2:57

Jane Green:  Trish, that I have balance. I love being an author because I am defined by something other than motherhood. NOT THAT THERE'S ANYTHING WRONG WITH THAT, but I'd go out of my mind if I didn't have something else to do, that taps into my creativity and who I am as a woman. I love being a mother, and I love being a wife, and a friend. Honestly, I just feel tremendously happy with my lot.

2:57

[Comment From Melissa]
Really? I think you'd do an excellent job.

2:57

Jane Green:  Jeanette – God, you're right. That is terrible. Sorry.

2:58

[Comment From Elizabeth]
When are you bringing a book tour to Hanover, NH??

2:58

[Comment From Trish]
Jane, that's what I'm strivin for im my life now. Happiness and balance. You're an inspiration…

2:58

Jane Green:  Becky, I am only critical when I am reading ARCs – Advance Reading Copies because they want a blurb. I will only give one if I absolutely love the book. Speaking of which, ones i have 'blurbed' and adored recently are The Divorce Party by Laura Dave, and The Sinful Life of Lucy Burns by Elizabeth Leiknes.

2:59

[Comment From Elizabeth]
who is your favorite character that you've written?

2:59

Jane Green:  Elizabeth, so many. I love Holly Mac in Second Chance – that was a bittersweet book for me. Meant to be about losing a friend in the Tsunami, but ended up being a massive catharsis about the end of a marriage. I also adore Jemima for her sweetness…

3:00

[Comment From Jordi]
Oh my goodness, I would love to see that from you Jane!!! Writing from a male perspective could be a lot of fun (but also risky)… but you did such a great job in The Beach House with Daniel that i'm sure you could pull it off 😀

3:00

Jane Green:  Oh, and Nan is who I want to become

3:00

Jane Green:  Thank you all so much for coming!!

3:00

Jane Green:  Really wonderful to meet some new readers and see some old friends here…

3:01

[Comment From Melissa]
Thank you Jane for doing this!! 🙂 🙂

3:01

Jane Green:  Enjoy the rest of your day! j xxx

3:01

Reading Room Admin:  

As a special thank you for taking part in this chat, Penguin is happy to offer you 15% off all website purchases!

Simply visit https://us.penguingroup.com, add books to your shopping cart and enter “puboffice09” in the ‘coupon code’ box on the ‘Shopping Cart’ page. Click the ‘update cart’ button to see your savings. Proceed through our secure checkout process and your books will be on their way.

Thanks again for joining Jane Green and Penguin for this chat, and check back next month to learn more about The Magicians by Lev Grossman.

3:01

[Comment From Rhiana]
Thank you Jane!

3:01

[Comment From Trish]
Aw, thank you Jane! It was a pleasure.

3:01

[Comment From Kristin]
Thank you.

3:01

[Comment From Emmy]
Thank you, Jane!!

3:01

[Comment From Jordi]
Well thank YOU for doing this!

3:01

[Comment From Becky]
Thank you – been great!x

3:01

[Comment From Sarah Gillard]
Thanks for talking to us xxxx its been fabulous xx

3:01

[Comment From Elizabeth]
You too!

3:01

[Comment From Robyn]
Thanks Jane!!!