Indie Authors Uncovered - Meet the person behind the pages - Meet Natasha van Graan - Her Craft is about emotions.
Where were you born?
I was born in Potchefstroom, South Africa.
Where do you live?
I now live in KwaZulu Natal, South Africa.
Do you have fur babies?
Yes!
- one multi coloured kitty named Patches,
- a black Great Dane called Arthur,
- a Boerboel x Basset cross named Maya.
Do you use a pen name?
No, I write under my name.
What kind of writer are you?
- Modern Day Laptop/PC Writer
Name one book you loved as a kid - one you loved as a new adult - and one you love now.
- Horse Whisperer as a kid,
- Haunting Adeline now.
- Didn't read as a young adult as I got married and had my first baby very young.
Is there an author you look up to? Or had an influence on your craft?
Haven't read enough lately to have a influencer.
I am part of SAIAA (South African Indie Author Association), and every single member motivates and influences me!
How would you describe your craft in one sentence
I don't want to be your tissue, I want to be the reason you need one.
At The Dreamer's Bookshop, we embrace diversity and advocate for invisible illnesses. How do you feel about those topics? Do you include messages in your writing?
My writing aims to help you discover various parts of yourself and find parts to heal. I feel it's very important to speak up about these topics.
Do you have red lines when it comes to writing/reading?
I don't soften things, and don't frequently enjoy reading fluffy things. Life is what it is, and although I understand the concept of wanting to escape to somewhere else, I don't like it.
Was there a review that touched you more than others?
A deeply reflective and thought-provoking read. It reminded me of things I needed to hear, truths I had forgotten or lost along the way, and helped me begin finding my way back to my authentic self, little by little. It showed me that it’s okay to put myself first, live the life I want, and be unapologetically me. The journey never really ends, but even the smallest steps forward are worth it.
If someone asked you why you write, what would you answer in one sentence?
To heal the parts of me that can't speak out loud.
Which book are you most proud of and why?
Reflection(less)
As my first fictional work, it was extremely challenging to write. It shaped me so much, and helped me to discover my voice, which I can now confidently write in.
What would you tell an aspiring writer?
Do it your way, keep true to your unique voice. And follow rules only where absolutely necessary
What's a wish you have for yourself as an author?
To touch the hearts of people like me who want things said more directly and with minimal fluff.
What's a wish you have for yourself as a person?
To fully allow myself to just be who I am, without the restraints I installed to fit into people's boxes .
Do you have a message for your audience
You are your most important project. Nothing else in life will feel right or natural until you get to know the real you.
