**INTERVIEW with author MILA BERNADKIN**

Author Of: "THE ATTITUDE GIRL" Genre: YA Novel (realistic contemporary) http://www.attitudegirlbook.com/ http://www.goodreads.com/book/show/6517957.The_Attitude_Girl www.myspace.com/486758811 www.fivestarpublications.com http://www.authorsandexperts.com/search_detail.php?recordid=1016 http://www.schoolbookings.com/search_detail.php?recordid=122 INTERVIEW Geri: Is there a special person in your life who inspired you to write? Mila: My sister is very special to me, she's my best friend, and the best sister someone could have. But I'd say she encouraged me to write, rather than inspired. Geri: When did you first realize that you wanted to be a writer? Mila: I've always known. I used to be an editor at my school newspaper, and wrote editorials, poetry, etc. I wanted to be a journalist in the former Soviet Union. But I've never thought it was possible here, considering that English is my second language. Geri: How did you feel the first time you were published? Mila: I felt proud of myself, like I was capable to do something that counts. It gave me a sense of accomplishment, and achievement. Geri: Who is your favorite author? Mila: I have quite a few, Russian-Chekhov and Dostoevsky. I'm a fan of Hemingway, and I love everything of Joseph Heller. Geri: How did you feel at your first book-signing, or the first time you signed a book? Mila: I had the same feelings I had when my book was published, pride, achievement, and accomplishment. Even more so, because I actually saw people standing in line to get my book autographed! Geri: Did you have favorite books as a child? Mila: Yes, I did. I grew up in the former Soviet Union, so I loved Russian fairytales. My favorite books were the books of poetry for kids by Samuil Marshak. They were wonderful. Every four lines told a story. I still have his four-book poetry collection. Geri: Have you ever experienced writer's block? Mila: Doesn't every author at some point? But honestly, not that often. Geri: Do you have any current work in progress? Mila: I have several ideas for books that need to be developed. Geri: As writers, we begin with a manuscript, and end in promotions. What was your most difficult task? Mila: For me, promotions has just started, and marketing is the most difficult task. Geri: If you were to write in a different genre, what would it be? Mila: I'd like to try my hand in every genre, and for all ages. Although writing for adults is closer to my heart, I'd love to write a few books for little kids, and mid-graders. I also have an idea now for a romantic, and humorous book for adults. I'd absolutely love to write a mystery novel. Geri: Thank you for your time, it has been a great pleasure, and I wish you the best in all your writing endeavors. Mila: you're welcome!