Susan Bradford Author Bio:
Susan Bradford brought her Midwestern, Minnesota roots to 1960’s Berkeley where she transformed into an enlivened hippie and then set out hitchhiking on sailboats, living and working in the South Pacific and Asia in search of direction and meaning in her life.
Her global pilgrimage coupled with her joy of discovery. indomitable spirit, and passion for understanding the world around her deeply influenced her later work as a psychologist, political activist, and environmentalist, including co-founding the Hawaii Land Trust. Susan divides her time between Maui and Minneapolis.
What inspires you to write?
What inspires me to write is the profound journey of self-discovery and transformation that I embarked upon in my life. My coming-of-age story, set in the turbulent 1960s, is a testament to the universal quest for identity and purpose. As I hitchhiked on sailboats across the globe, seeking answers to the questions of 'who am I' and 'what am I to do with my life,' I found myself immersed in a world of change and upheaval. From the heart-wrenching losses of my teens in the Midwest to the mind-expanding years in free-wheeling 1960s Berkeley, I felt compelled to document my experiences and insights. My odyssey became an initiation into the global shift towards a new world order, filled with cries of equality and freedom for all. Through writing, I am able to share my journey of growth, resilience, and the discovery of myself as a citizen of the world.
Tell us about your writing process.
My writing process begins with inspiration drawn from personal experiences and research. I outline key events and characters before diving into the writing, allowing the story to unfold organically. Revision and editing are integral as I refine the manuscript, seeking feedback from beta readers and editors to polish the final product. Overall, it's a dynamic journey guided by a passion for storytelling and the quest to capture the essence of human experience.
Who are your favorite authors?
Elizabeth Gilbert, Pico Iyer, and Alexandra Fuller
What genres do you write?
nonfiction, memoir
How did you choose the genre(s) you write?
I chose the genres I write based on a combination of personal interest and life experiences. Growing up, I was always drawn to stories that explored themes of self-discovery, resilience, and human connection. As I navigated my own journey through life, I found myself grappling with similar questions and experiences, which naturally found their way into my writing.
What formats are your books in?
eBook, Print
Website(s)
Follow On Amazon
Author’s Social Media Links
Goodreads
All information is provided by the author and is presented as it was submitted so you the reader get to hear the author’s own “voice” in their interview.