January 27, 2009
I’m very excited to be touring Diana Rodriguez Wallach and her book Adios to All the Drama.
Mariana Ruiz thought she left her summer fling in Puerto Rico, that is until she finds Alex sitting across from her at the breakfast table. Living two doors down from her visiting old flame isn’t easy, especially given the unresolved sparks still lingering for her locker buddy Bobby – and they don’t exactly go unnoticed. Her best friends are little help as Madison deals with her IM-only ‘boyfriend’ and Emily sinks into secret mode after her parents’ recent breakup. The only relationship that seems to be working is her estranged aunt Teresa who’s tying the knot on New Years with Mariana and her cousin Lilly as bridesmaids. But the last wedding detail left unplanned is who will Mariana kiss at midnight? Strained friendships, stolen kisses, and secret loves create plenty of surprises to unfold before the New Year’s bells start ringing.
What inspired the plot for your book?
Well, Adios to All the Drama is the third book in the series. So it was inspired by the two books that came before. However, the first book in the series, Amor and Summer Secrets, was initially inspired by a conversation with my agent, Jenoyne Adams. She had mentioned seeing a recent increase in interest from editors seeking multi-cultural novels, and she asked the infamous question, “Got any ideas?” I didn’t. But by the end of our conversation, I had pitched the story for what became Amor and Summer Secrets.
Part of the inspiration was derived from my first trip to Puerto Rico after I graduated from college. I met my relatives there for the first time, and I got to see where my dad grew up. I wanted to share some of those experiences with my character while showcasing that the stereotypes about Latinas are just that—stereotypes.
Why did you decide to write in this genre?
I never considered writing anything other than young adult. As a teen, I read a lot of Christopher Pike, Judy Bloom and Sweet Valley High. I really connected with the genre, and it felt natural for me to contribute to it as an author. Plus, I think my writing voice speaks naturally to teenagers. It may have something to do with my own experiences as a teen. I had a hard time fitting in socially and dealt with a lot of the insecurity that many girls face. As such, I vividly remember the emotions of that time, so it’s not as challenging for me to get inside a teen character’s head.
What are you working on now?
I am hard at work on a new young adult story. It’s a complete departure from my Amor series—lots of spies, suspense, fight scenes and, of course, a love triangle. I’m really excited about it. Plus I get to travel because I’m setting some scenes in Europe. And the main character is a lot of fun to write. She’s much cooler than I am, all about girl power, and her dialogue is very punchy. I hope to have it ready for the publishing world soon!
What do you do when you’re not writing?
I love to travel. I studied abroad my junior year of college in Madrid, Spain. And after that trip, I backpacked through Europe, hitting up London, Paris, Amsterdam, Berlin, Munich, Geneva and Nice. Since then, I’ve been to Prague, Bora Bora, Bali, Greece, Italy and hopefully many more.
I’m also a huge football fan. I love the Philadelphia Eagles. I go to at least one game a year. Though I must admit I’m very disappointed that they just lost the NFC Championship, again.
Who do you like to read?
I have several favorite authors. One of my favorite books is The Little Prince. I think the lessons in that story are useful at any age (even the dedication inspires me). And I’m a huge Jane Austin fan, especially Pride & Prejudice. And I love Stephenie Meyer’s Twilight.
Bio
Born to a Puerto Rican father and a Polish mother, Diana Rodriguez Wallach has experienced the cultures her characters inhabit. Diana holds a journalism degree from Boston University, and has worked as a reporter and as an advocate for inner city public schools. She currently resides in Philadelphia with her husband.
www.dianarodriguezwallach.com
http://twitter.com/dianarwallach
Posted by Sara Hantz in Uncategorized @ 6:26 am
Barrie Summy Says:
Looks like a very interesting book! Good luck Diana!
Keri Mikulski Says:
I’m adding to my TBR! Thanks for the interview.
Sara Hantz Says:
I agree!!