Atmosphere Press Staff Spotlight: Cassandra Felten

Cassandra (she/her) graduated from Indiana University in December 2020 with a bachelor’s in English literature and minors in creative writing and psychology. She has experience in many aspects of book publishing, but she found her passion in interior book design with Atmosphere Press. Now, she loves her job of helping every Atmosphere author perfect their book before falling into the hands of readers – and new fans!

She also loves to write fiction, with short stories published in Analecta, Brainchild, and PAN-O-PLY, and she is currently working on her debut horror novel. When not reading or writing, she might be playing video games, putting together a LEGO kit, or playing with her four beloved cats.

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What’s your role at Atmosphere Press, and what do you enjoy most about it?

I am a Production Manager and Head of Interior Design. I love working with authors on their designs, especially because interior design is something that most people never even think about when it comes to book publishing or realize how much goes into it! Authors tend to be so worried about the words of their book, of course, so the editing process is forefront on their mind; then they get to the design stage, and it’s so much fun!

What do you wish more authors knew about Atmosphere Press’s publishing process?

I wish that more authors seeking to publish their book who really care about aesthetics and design knew how this is a collaborative process! From cover to interior design, we want our authors to be in love with the look of their book. Our designers are professional and amazing at what they do, so we will work with you until you are satisfied and can hold a piece of art you are proud of. 🙂

How does your own creative practice inform your work with authors?

When I am speaking to our wonderful authors, I always like to think about how much their book means to them and remember to be gentle and kind, even when any problems might arise. Being a creative myself (in multiple mediums), I know how it feels to create art – something that is entirely yours and came from your own unique, amazing brain – and how precious that product is. And I also know how it feels for your creation to be criticized and the sense of shame that can come with negative feedback. As such, if I must ever scrutinize, I only do so constructively and with kindness and patience. I think anyone should feel only pride for what they have accomplished creatively!

What’s a fun fact most people wouldn’t guess about you?

I have always been a bit of a scaredy-cat, so I think it is surprising for people to learn that I actually love the horror genre (movies and books) and, in fact, am writing my own horror novel!

What’s a creative risk you’ve taken that paid off (or didn’t—but taught you something)?

I started drawing in very early elementary school (mostly cats!), and I have kept up the hobby ever since. But I was always a very shy child, so beyond my own parents, sister, and a couple of friends, I never wanted to share my art with anyone for a long time. But finally, in the sixth grade, I one day mustered up the courage to take my sketchbook to class with me. When people near me saw what I was drawing, I started to receive compliments from many classmates – something I was not expecting. I can’t tell you how much this boosted my confidence, and not only in my drawing abilities! Suddenly, I felt like the things I did in life might actually matter to someone else. The reason I share this for this question is simply because to many people, like myself, it feels like a risk just to share their artistic expression, their innermost feelings, but when they do, it can really pay off.

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More staff spotlights are on the way!
Until then, meet the rest of Atmosphere Press’s amazing staff on our team page.