An Interview with Diane Jerome

Diane Jerome’s debut book, Spirals of Stardust, which followed a slightly zany protagonist determined against all odds to succeed, was released in 2024.

Diane holds an Ed.D. in Curriculum and Instruction, as well as a M.S. and B.S. from the University of Houston. A sagacious facilitator of student experiences, she has woven firsthand experiences into dissertation vignettes and into peer-reviewed articles: “Blue Dragonflies are ‘Dandleflies’. . .” for the Affective Reading Journal and “A Challenged Third Grader Connects with Meaningful Books” for the Indiana Reading Journal.

When she’s not writing, coaching, and crafting, Diane can be found enjoying the outdoors with her Goldendoodle, Josie, in Texas. Learn more about her at www.drdianejerome.com.

Tell us the story of your book’s title. Was it easy to find, or did it take forever?

The title, Spirals of Stardust, evolved quickly and naturally. The spirals illustrate the spiraling cosmic dust that falls down to earth transforming itself into living beings – in this case, animal beings. Since all living things on Earth are made of stardust, it connects us all.

How did it feel when you first saw your book cover? Or when you first held your book in your hands?

I vividly remember seeing the Spirals of Stardust book cover design, which took my breath away. It felt like the book cover literally matched me. I had requested certain colors and elements that were included in the cover design. The significance of the book cover design matching me is that when asked what I was the proudest of in the writing of this book, I responded, “Staying true to myself.”

I emailed the amazing Atmosphere Press art director, Ronaldo Alves, “Wow! My heart literally fluttered.” I remained impressed with the book cover created by the art design team even months later. I sent off a separate email specifically thanking the graphic designer, Kevin Stone.

Who/what made you want to write? Was there a particular person, or particular writers/works/art forms that influenced you?

I am deeply moved by students, parents, teachers, and others who struggle through the educational process because of being misjudged (for whatever reason – physical, psychological, emotional, intellectual, etc.). In Book One, protagonist Jill has an overactive imagination. Every character, every scene was inspired by real-life experiences. Couple that with my passion for reading dystopian works, along with my optimistic and somewhat silly personality, which all drove my writing of Spirals of Stardust.

How does an optimistic, silly writer craft a plot that reflects serious teenage struggles within a dystopia? Plus, how would the struggles be presented in such a way so that readers could relate to the characters going through typical coming-of-age struggles? My approach was to craft a backdrop (explained in the prologue) that takes the reader to a dystopian past when a series of events lead to the extinction of humankind, while animal characters with human traits demonstrate the hope and resilience needed for an Earthly rebirth.

What other professions have you worked in? What’s something about you that your readers wouldn’t know?

I have worked in both the computer and education sectors. Currently, I am in private practice, coaching students from elementary through high school. We focus on English Language Arts. My favorite work involves being supportive of high school AP students and college admission applicants during their essay writing.

My readers would not know that every single morning, my dog Josie and I are totally in our element by 7:30 a.m. I start my day by sitting outside drinking a cappuccino or two (sprinkled with chocolate chips and cinnamon) while writing my next book as Josie lays and watches anyone or anything that passes by.

What was the most rewarding/meaningful part of publishing your book?

When I speak with readers who explain how well they relate to the characters, that is especially meaningful to me. Personally, I feel there is not enough written about our student heroes. We all know someone who has gone through so much during their academic career. I am honored to be the author who gives voice to this segment of the population. This type of reward is immeasurable. I am humbled by my students, and I hope that I shine hope and justly represent their situation in my writing of Spirals of Stardust.

If your book had a soundtrack, what are some songs that would be on it?

“Three Little Birds” by Bob Marley

“So Will I” by Benjamin Willaim Hastings and Hillsong UNITED

“Promise” by Tori Amos

“Tell Your Heart to Beat Again” by Danny Gokey

“I’d Rather Go Blind” by Etta James

“Moments into Memories” by Will Dempsey

What is one thing you hope readers take away from reading your book? How do you envision your perfect reader?

I hope the reader feels lighthearted and finishes reading with the joy of being totally engaged in fantasy.

I envision the perfect reader being introspective, believing in themself, feeling hope and just escaping into the fantasy world that’s been created for them.

What new writing projects are you currently working on? Or, other projects that are not writing?

My most recent project, after the disarray left by Hurricane Beryl, involves restoring my backyard to its original beauty: ten-foot-high bamboo bordering my fence line, a single string of tree jewelry, a ground covering of yellow flowers, a stone pathway, a yellow hammock, blue chimes, streaming lights, two white Adirondack chairs, and a little yellow birdhouse.

How was working with Atmosphere Press? What would you tell other writers who want to publish?

The greatest benefit of working with Atmosphere Press is that everyone respects and supports my creative distinctness. I never once felt that I needed to compromise any bit of my writing for anyone else.

Are you a writer, too? Submit your manuscript to Atmosphere Press.