Interview with Maureen Lipinski and book giveaway!

I recently had the opportunity to interview Maureen Lipinski, author of "Not Ready for Mom Jeans", which I enjoyed reading and recently reviewed. Maureen also has three
signed copies to give away to readers in the US and Canada.

Writing/Your book:

MA: What authors or books inspired you to write?
ML: I will never forget the first time I read Marian Keyes’ “Watermelon.” I was in college, and my eyes just bugged out at the hilarious, touching and resonant prose. Her book reminded me that writing can—and should—be fun. It inspired me to seek out my own writerly voice and stop saying, “someday.”

MA: Do you have any plans for a sequel?
ML: There aren’t any current plans for a continuation of Clare’s story, although I would someday love to do another follow-up. I’d love to check in on her and see how she’s coping with toddlerhood. Which, in my opinion, is even more challenging than babyhood.

MA: Were any of Claire's parenting experiences taken from your own experiences?
ML: Although Clare’s journey is her own, I certainly took a few scenes from real life. I’ve experienced the dirty looks at the grocery store, leaving a restaurant early due to bad baby behavior and the terror when my son finally became mobile.

MA: If "Not Ready for Mom Jeans" were made into a movie, who would you cast in the lead roles?
ML: I love this question! I’ve always been a big fan of Rachel McAdams, and I’d love her see her in the role of Clare. For Jake, that’s tough, but maybe John Krasinski. (My Office love knows no bounds.) I always saw the character of Reese as Reese Witherspoon. (Original, I know!) And for Julie, Christina Hendricks.

Side note from MA: I was picturing Reese Witherspoon the first time Reese showed up in this book. And I'm a fan of "The Office" too! And now I'm interested in who would be cast as "Mule Face."

MA: What was the first thing you did after your first book, "A Bump in the Road" was published?
ML: Well, the very first thing I did when I saw my book on the shelves was to scream and run out of the store like a crazy person! After a few moments, I returned and just stared, slack-jawed, at the wall of pink books in front of me.

MA: What advice do you have for aspiring authors?
ML: Other than writing, writing, writing, it’s this: know that being an author and being a writer are two very different hats. Hone your writing skills, your storytelling skills, but be aware that there’s a whole additional piece to success, which is promotion, book signings and connecting with readers.

Fun:

MA: What were you like before you became a mom?
ML: Much more well-rested and sane. Ha! I was just about the same person, save for those extra few hours of sleep. I also didn’t fear the post office nearly as much, since my son seems to always find it the perfect place to have a total meltdown.

MA: What is the biggest party or event you have ever organized?
ML: In my previous life in fundraising, I once helped to organize an event in downtown Chicago at the Ritz Carlton, complete with 500 guests, custom designed invitations and a huge silent auction. It was both thrilling and intimidating!

MA: What is the cutest thing your son has said or done recently?
ML: He loves to grab one of my books, point to my picture on the back and tell me, very seriously, “That’s Mama.”

MA: What was it like for you to speak at a book signing?
ML: Completely nervewracking! I’m the girl who stood in front of the class in high school and stammered her way through presentations with a bright-red face. Thankfully, I’ve somewhat outgrown that and can speak in front of people without them worrying about calling an ambulance. At least, I think.

I want to thank Maureen for taking the time to answer my questions, and making me laugh with some of her answers. Also, for offering up the books for the giveaway.

How to win "Not Ready for Mom Jeans":
Please comment below with your e-mail address.
(Please note: Entries without an e-mail address will NOT be counted.)

For additional entries (each as a separate comment including your e-mail address, as well):
1. Please tell us: What is the cutest or funniest thing you've heard a child say (your own or someone else's)?
2. Follow this blog and post a comment saying you are a follower (if you already follow, that's fine too).
3. Post this contest on Facebook or Twitter or in your blog, and leave a comment saying where you've posted it.

US and Canada only. Giveaway ends Thursday at midnight EST.