Please welcome my fellow Indie-Debut 2010 author, Donna McDine, to Beth’s Book Basket today. We’re discussing her first children’s book, The Golden Pathway, just released from Guardian Angel Publishing.

Donna, I was struck by the depth of emotion in The Golden Pathway, both in the words and illustrations. What was your inspiration for the story?

DONNA: I’ve always been interested in American History and the perseverance of the slaves to survive and their courage to reach freedom. Even after all these years it teaches children and adults there is a way out (hopefully) in dire circumstances.

BETH: Did you know a lot about the Underground Railroad already or did you need to research it a lot before writing the book?

DONNA: I knew the basics of the Underground Railroad and knew I had to conduct extensive research to write the most authentic story possible. I spent time “picking the brains” of local historians and local librarians before I felt I was educated enough to do The Golden Pathway justice.

BETH: So you can add “researcher” to the MANY hats you wear, Donna. How do you balance all of your roles: mom, wife, author, owner of Dynamic Media release Services and now Publicist Intern with the National Writing for Children Center? Whew, I am tired just listing it all.

DONNA: I honestly have to say my time working for multiple bosses at a time in various Fortune 500 companies groomed me for my writing career. I am a firm believer that all our experiences (both personal and in business) happen for a reason and prepare us for the path the good Lord has set for us. Without my administrative, web design, and marketing backgrounds I wouldn’t know where to begin in all the other aspects beyond the writing. So yes, the many years of working in Fortune 500 companies taught me balance.

BETH: I heartily agree that God uses our various life experiences to prepare us for future endeavors. And speaking of the future, you have two more books in the works at Guardian Angel Publishing. Congratulations on these recent acceptances! Would you share a brief description of each book?

 DONNA: “The Hockey Agony” ~ Peer Pressure and honesty many times go hand-in-hand.  What is Larry to do when his teammate asks him to cheat when he is given the responsibility to run the clock during the big hockey game?  Outwardly, it may seem he will follow suit, but his conscious tells him otherwise at the moment of truth.

“Powder Monkey” ~ Forced into a life at sea by the Royal Navy Press Gangs, 12-year-old Tommy Kitt finds himself in a floating sea of misery. Life aboard the ship is like none other. Poor living conditions, beatings, and grueling hours are daily occurrences. Despite his runt like size, Tommy must summon the courage and physical ability to prevail in a situation in cannot escape.

BETH: As a NASCAR fan, I like to end with a fun, racing-related question. If you were a NASCAR driver, what sponsor would you want on your car and why?

DONNA: Terrific question! My goodness, at this point in my life and writing career I have to say Oprah Winfrey’s Book Club. How cool would that be!

BETH: That would be a fantastic sponsor for an author. Thanks for visiting my blog today, Donna. I’ve enjoyed talking with you and h