Diana Robinson - Epic Middle Grade Fantasy

D. Lynn Robinson is a mom of five and has been writing fiction all her life, and publishing novels since 2019. A lover of the outdoors, she enjoys hiking, swimming, and warm sandy beaches. When she’s not in the water, you can find her horseback riding with her husband Joe on one of the many trails Idaho has to offer.  The Last Indigo and the Beast of Epicerra is her first fantasy chapter book, and a project deeply important to her. She believes that great stories have the power to enrich lives. As our Author of the Day, she tells us all about this book.

Please give us a short introduction to what "The Last Indigo and the Beast of Epicerra" is about.

This is a story about a boy named Indigo who starts the first day of 7th grade at a new school with a few problems. First, he can’t remember anything more than the last seven days. Next, he is afraid his mother is lying about his past. And worst of all? His eyes are turning purple!

What inspired you to write this story? Was there anything in particular that made you want to tackle this?

I’ve wanted to write this story for years! I love this genre and wanted to write a story that would inspire kids and help strengthen them for the future ahead.

Indigo seems to have a complex past that he's trying to unravel. Please tell us more about what makes him tick.

Indigo wants friends and he wants to blend in. But as he learns more about his past, he will realize that his life is unique and meant for so much more. He will never blend in.

The concept of Indigo's eyes changing color is intriguing. What significance does this hold in the story, and how does it tie into his journey?

Indigo isn’t from around here. ;) As a power grows inside of him, his eyes change. It is a force found deep in the universe, but not on Earth.

Middle-grade fantasy novels often carry important themes or messages. What themes did you aim to explore in "The Last Indigo and the Beast of Epicerra," and why were they important to you?

The grand theme is one of choosing who you want to be. I wanted Indigo to have flaws he never believed he could overcome. And then I wanted him to be the hero anyway. I can’t think of a better lesson for kids than overcoming mistakes.

Besides writing, what other secret skills do you have?

I taught Zumba classes for a few years! And I learned how to cut a pineapple at the Dole pineapple factory in Hawaii.

Family seems to play a significant role in Indigo's journey. How does his relationship with his mother influence his decisions and actions throughout the story?

Now this one I absolutely cannot give away. You’ll definitely have to read the book to get the answer!

What did you have the most fun with when writing this book?

Indigo’s abilities and friendships, especially with Houdini. (who you’ll learn about later.)

As a mom of five, how do your experiences as a parent influence your writing, especially when crafting stories for young readers?

It helps me to remember my readers when I look at my kids and think, what would they love to read? I can craft better stories when I keep the readers in mind.

When starting on a new book, what is the first thing you do?

I always start with a pencil and notebook. I write out all my favorite things and usually know the beginning and end. Then there’s research. It’s amazing the inspiration that comes after doing a bit of research.

What are you working on right now?

Right now I’m working on the second book in The Last Indigo series! Can’t wait to get this one finished.

Where can our readers discover more of your work or interact with you?

They can find me on my Facebook page here… https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61554098501311&mibextid=kFxxJD