The author (and friend) at Sun Mt. Resort

Website for: Janelle Meraz Hooper

Have you ever heard the expression “Be careful what you wish for because you might get it?” It has happened to me in a good way. For years, I have been unhappy with a lot of the violence Americans export in books, television, and films. To counteract this material that I believe unfairly represents the greater part of our population, I began writing short stories about the real America away from New York and Hollywood. Some call it Middle America.

The short story book I wrote (Free Pecan Pie and Other Chick Stories) was a big step in this direction. Then I wrote some novels that may be more difficult for readers for whom English is a second language, but still the theme was there: stories about real people who work hard, raise their families, and love each other.

Lately, I have begun to add Kindle shorts to my Amazon site. So far, there are three of them: Old Joe’s Pink Cadillac, Escape to Laredo, and Harpy & Julianne’s Tomato War.

I have no doubt that readers in the more dense populations of The United States are not entertained by my stories with no violence, vampires, or zombies. I’m not upset. We each must follow our own heart.

Imagine my delight when I discovered my readership is up in Russia, Africa, and India! I’m so glad my readers in other parts of the world are enjoying my work and I want to thank all of you from the bottom of my heart.

I’m hoping you know I’m not doing this for the money. Most independent writers in this country make very little. There are no fancy cars and big houses where I live! That said, I am happy, doing what I love. And I am tickled that I got what I wished for.

Thanks again, Janelle