Kate Elizabeth Russell released her debut novel two days before COVID-19 caused a nationwide shutdown.
to discover it anew.
ENTERTAINMENT WEEKLY: What is the first thing ever that you remember writing?
Credit: Elena Seibert
I wanted that life.
What is the last book that made you cry?
Hmmm, good question.
It’s been about a month since I read that essay and I’ve thought about it every day.
Which book is at the top of your current To-Read list?
Boy Partsby Eliza Clark,Something Wildby Hanna Halperin, andDetransition, Babyby Torrey Peters.
Where do you write?
Right now, in a home office.
It’s a sunroom, has eight windows and lots of space for me to pace around.
It’s a dream.
But I miss writing in coffee shops.
That’s the number one thing I’m looking forward to once things are safe again.
Which book made you a forever reader?
What is a snack you couldn’t write without?
Sour gummies, dried mango, and diet soda.
My desk is always littered with cans.
If you could change one thing about your book what would it be?
Putting out a book in 2020 was not ideal.
What is your favorite part ofMy Dark Vanessa?
How much of it stayed intact through the very long writing process.
What was the hardest plot point or character to write?
The hardest character was probably Strane [the teacher], because characterizing him was a real balancing act.
It was a tricky line to walk.
