50+ Critical Questions to Ask an Author (For Interview)

Have you ever wondered what to ask your favorite author? Questions can tell you more about the author than what you can find on the internet. 

If you find it tricky to figure out what to ask or if you’re getting ready for an author interview, then don’t worry. I’ve got you!

This article is all about critical questions that you can ask an author to make your interview spicy. No complicated words here – just straightforward questions to help you know more about authors.

So, let’s start!

List of Questions:

Questions About Writing

1. What inspired your latest book?
2. How do you begin writing a new story?
3. Do you plan the ending of your book before you start writing?
4. What’s your favorite part of the writing process?
5. How do you name your characters?
6. Is there a message you hope readers will take away from your books?
7. Do you have any writing rituals or habits?
8. How do you handle writer’s block?
9. Can you describe a typical day in your writing life?
10. What advice do you have for aspiring writers?
11. How do you edit and revise your work?
12. What genre do you enjoy writing the most, and why?
13. How do you create a believable and immersive setting for your stories?
14. Can you share a funny or memorable writing-related anecdote?
15. How do you balance writing with your personal life and other responsibilities?
16. How do you celebrate when you finish writing a book?
17. How do you stay motivated throughout the writing process?
18. What do you think is the key to creating compelling and relatable characters?
19. How do you handle criticism and negative reviews?
20. What do you enjoy most about interacting with your readers?

Questions About Books

1. What was your favorite book when you were a kid?
2. Is there a book that made you see the world differently?
3. How do you choose the books you read for fun?
4. Do you prefer reading physical books or digital ebooks, and why?
5. What book are you reading right now, and what do you like about it?
6. Do you read on a screen, from a real book, or listen to someone reading?
7. How do you make time for reading along with your other activities?
8. Is there a classic book you think everyone should read?
9. How do you find new books or authors to read?
10. What have books taught you that you find important?

Questions About the Latest Book

1. What is your new book about? Can you explain it simply?
2. What made you want to write this story?
3. Is there a special message you want readers to get from your new book?
4. How do you want readers to feel after they read your new book?
5. Can you share something fun or interesting about where the story is set?
6. How did you pick the title and cover for your new book?
7. How did you celebrate finishing and publishing your new book?

Questions About Future Work

1. What are you planning to write next? Can you share a little bit about it?
2. Are there specific topics in mind for your future books?
3. Is there a special kind of story or genre you want to try writing in the future?
4. How do you challenge yourself when you write new stories?
5. Do you plan to collaborate with other writers or artists in your future work?
6. Are there story types or themes you haven’t explored yet but want to in the future?

Personal Questions

1. What’s your favorite hobby outside of writing?
2. Do you have any pets?
3. What’s your favorite food?
4. Do you enjoy traveling? If so, where is your favorite place you’ve visited?
5. What’s your go-to way to relax after a long day?
6. Do you have a favorite movie or TV show?
7. Are you a morning person or a night owl?
8. Do you have a favorite quote or mantra that inspires you?
9. Do you prefer spending time indoors or outdoors?

Conclusion

In interviewing authors, prepare by researching their work and creating questions about their writing and personal interests. Start with a friendly chat to help them feel comfortable. Listen carefully to their answers and ask follow-up questions. Balance serious and fun questions. Be flexible, respectful, and polite. 

After the interview, thank them and share the interview if possible. Stay curious and respectful during the conversation.