An interview with Pamela France, author of LIFE SOUP - A Memoir

When I moved to Kanab three years ago, I was delighted to find a chapter of ANWA  (American Night Writers Association) was forming. I had been a member of this vibrant LDS women's writers group for ten years and was glad to have a local chapter to attend.

One of my fellow chapter members was Pamela France, and it's been exciting to see her complete her book and have it published. In her book LIFE SOUP she confronts a difficult subject--sexual abuse and incest--in a sensitive and nonthreatening way. Make no mistake, you will feel her pain, but she writes in such a way that you aren't afraid to tackle the subject with her.

I already had someone come to me, knowing I was a writer and knew Pamela, and ask me to tell her how much reading the book helped her. If you know someone who is dealing with the aftereffects of this blight, tell them about Pamela's book. I'll put a purchase link here and at the end, too. This is too valuable a book to miss out on.

I asked Pamela if I could post an interview on my blog to let people know about her book. She graciously consented, and she'd like to host a drawing for a free ebook copy. If you'd like to win a copy of Pamela's book, post a comment below. I'll have a drawing on Wednesday, June 17 for all those people who have commented and award the book.

Here's the interview:

1.      

      LIZ: Why did you wait so long to write your book?

PAMELA: The healing process follows its own course. It takes years to understand oneself and when abuse is thrown into the mix, it can take even longer. I have been writing all my life and I found it very beneficial to get my thoughts and feelings out in this way. I wanted to share my testimony of Jesus Christ. My hope is that it might touch the hearts of those caught in the throes of traumatic abuse. Conveying this in a readable and inoffensive way took time.  

LIZ:   What is your background that allows you to offer credibility to other people?

PAMELA: I survived my father's abuse. Throughout my life I have taken many opportunities to read, study and experience what I could that would help me to deal with its effects. Along the way, I learned much and wanted to help other in similar circumstances.

LIZ:  How did you gained your love of writing and your desire to write?

 PAMELA: I must admit that reading and writing in my teen years became an escape. Reading especially took me away to other places and helped keep my mind off my troubles. I love most genres of literature and have immersed myself in everything I read. My favorite categories are mystery and historical fiction. I believe writing is a wonderful way to heal wounds of the heart.

LIZ:   What gave you the confidence to write a book on this controversial topic?

 PAMELA: Frankly, my confidence was in the Lord. I hope that my writing my book helps repay some of the debt for the blessings He provides in such abundance. Sharing my story was not easy for me. Fortunately, I have a very loving family and friends who care. These people encouraged me to continue. I believe I had more determination and hope than confidence. Mia Angelo's quote says it well - "There is no greater agony than bearing an untold story inside you."

LIZ:   Did you ever feel sensitivity towards those in your book whose names you included?

When I shared my manuscript with my beta-readers, I ask if I should use real names or fictional. My sister Paula, a major character in my childhood and healing journey, said, "We are who we are." I am so appreciative of her attitude and support. My topic is sensitive, but it is my story to tell.

LIZ:   Who has this book benefited and why?

PAMELA: Since writing this book, I have been surprised at the unexpected benefits. One friend shared a wish that she could have read it many years ago. She felt it would have helped her better understand and love her own mother, who was also a victim of incest. Many have told me that they shared the book with a friends dealing with similar circumstances such as: the mother of a child victimized, a woman dealing with effects of abuse perpetrated on her during childhood and now trying to raise her own children. Other victims also shared support and appreciation that I had a voice when they had none. Abuse can make one feel so isolated. I needed to tell my story to let others know that they are not alone and that someone cares and understands.

LIZ: Thanks so much, Pamela, for sharing your story. As promised, here's the purchase link again. Don't forget to comment for a chance to win an ebook copy. This is a valuable book, folks.