Acclaimed Comic Book Writer Gail Simone Discusses Literary Influences and current Reads

gail⁢ Simone, a celebrated comic book writer known for her work on titles like “Birds of Prey,” “Wonder Woman,” ​and currently “Uncanny X-Men,” recently released her debut novel, “red Sonja: ⁣consumed,” published‌ by⁣ Hachette. ⁤‍ In a recent interview, Simone shared insights into her⁢ literary journey,⁤ revealing the books and individuals who shaped her reading life⁣ and her current literary pursuits.

When asked about impactful books,Simone ‍cited ⁣”Peter Rabbit” as her first⁣ library book,a relatable​ choice‍ given her childhood ​on a farm. She fondly recalled, ““Peter Rabbit,” which ⁢was the first book⁤ I checked ⁣out from the library as a kid. I lived on a farm, and⁤ was very⁣ proud of‍ that fact, so the book felt really ‍relatable to me.”

Her introduction to Wonder Woman,a pivotal ‌moment,came unexpectedly. “There was also the issue ⁣of ​“Justice League” 100 that I found at a garage⁣ sale, which is how I met Wonder Woman for ⁣the first time. It always seemed to me that the women heroes in⁣ comics would accidentally⁤ have things ⁢happen to them, and then they’d⁤ have to take ⁣action. Wonder⁣ Woman was different.​ She ‍defied her mother, left the island, didn’t need anyone to rescue ⁢her ‍– I loved her,” she explained.

Simone also highlighted the significant influence of her mother on ‌her reading habits. “Well, ⁣my mother, in that⁣ she did not censor anything ⁢that I read. I didn’t have to stay in a lane. I didn’t⁢ have to stay in ⁢an age group, you know? I could just ⁤read whatever. And I think that, looking back⁣ on it, that was probably the most impactful thing, ⁤just as I was free to read,” she shared, recalling a childhood ⁤illness where her mother’s unwavering support fueled her love​ of reading.

Her early access⁣ to books came through a bookmobile,a cherished memory: “I lived⁣ out in the contry so⁢ my library​ was actually a bookmobile at‍ first.I was excited by that bookmobile like other kids were excited by an ‍ice cream truck. I loved uncovering books and talking to the librarians.” She credits ⁣both⁣ her mother and⁣ the librarians for fostering her passion for reading.

Currently, Simone is enjoying the “Bridgerton” novels, finding them ⁤a ⁢relaxing​ contrast to her professional writing. ⁢ “The “Bridgerton” novels. I’ve already watched the ⁤show, ​but it’s cool ⁢to read the‌ books and⁣ see how they’re represented on the show. They’re delightful, and it’s nice to read something ‌where I don’t feel like I’m working‍ while I’m reading,” she ‌noted. ⁤​ She also recently ⁢finished audiobooks by Kamala Harris and Michelle Obama.

Looking ahead, Simone’s reading list includes “Hollow Earth” by⁤ John‌ Barrowman and the⁢ “Thursday Murder Club”⁢ series by Richard Osman. ““Hollow Earth” has been ⁤on my list for ‍a⁣ while. And also the “Thursday murder‌ Club” books by Richard Osman. I love cozy mysteries,” she stated.

Simone’s journey, ⁣from a childhood filled ⁤with farm life​ and⁣ bookmobiles to becoming a celebrated comic book writer and novelist, ‍showcases the enduring power of reading ⁣and⁣ the importance of supportive figures in shaping a​ lifelong love of literature. Her current reading choices⁣ offer a glimpse into the diverse tastes⁤ of a triumphant​ author,‍ highlighting both ⁢popular fiction and memoirs.

author Spotlight:⁣ A Conversation on Books, Conventions, and the White House

In a recent interview, a celebrated author shared insights into their literary preferences ​and a memorable experience speaking at the White House. The conversation⁤ revealed a passion for storytelling and ​a commitment to diverse representation in media.

On Favorite ​Reads and Recommendations

When asked ​about their go-to book recommendation, the author explained, “There⁣ isn’t‌ usually just one. If ⁣somebody ⁣wants⁢ a recommendation,‍ I always ask them what they like to read,​ or‌ what kind of characters they ‍want to read about, or what kind of ⁣movies they watch. I want to try to match their taste with what I think they might like.”

Their most recent⁢ recommendation? Stephen King’s “fairy Tale.” The‌ author enthused, “I ⁢really found that I just could not⁣ put it down. I read a lot of horror​ – just not before⁤ bed.”

A White House moment

The ‌author recounted a particularly memorable​ experience: speaking at the White house during the ⁣Obama administration on the topic of media portrayals of LGBTQ+ individuals and peopel with disabilities. The ⁣story‌ is one of ‍unexpected circumstances and heartwarming connection.

Describing the lead-up to the event, the author recalled, “I got the call⁤ when I was‍ at another convention in ⁢New York and my ‍suitcase was basically full of jeans, flip-flops⁢ and ‌Aerosmith T-shirts. My husband and I found a suit at Macy’s, but no shoes that were appropriate. so I gave my speech, and opened with ‘Please, no one ​tell my mom I’m wearing flip-flops at​ the White House.’”

The author concluded,”It was very cool. People came up to me ⁢and showed me their ‍‘Superman’ socks, etc. I knew these were my people.”

This anecdote highlights the ‍author’s dedication‍ to ‌inclusivity and their ability to connect with audiences on a personal level. The ⁤unexpected nature of the situation only ‍serves to amplify ⁢the impact of ‌their message ‍and the genuine warmth of ‌the⁤ encounter.

Originally Published: December 20, 2024‍ at 4:50 PM PST