A Rush of Reality: An Interview with Fatima Pimienta, author of Little Curiosity/Curiosita

Fatima Pimienta got her degree in English Literature from Seattle University and completed her PMP from Cornell. She lives in San Diego, CA, where she loves her cubicle 9-to-5 job, the community theater scene, and the quick commute to visit her family in Mexico.

You can buy Little Curiosity/Curiosita here.

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

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

There was a challenge in finding a title that worked well in both English and in Spanish. There were several drafts and ideas, but I think the final choice was best.

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

I was utterly ecstatic. This is my debut book and I can only describe it as rush of reality. I created something that is real and true and I could not wait to share it with the world. Hopefully readers get joy from my little creation.

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

This particular book was inspired by my niece, Cordelia. I created it as a Christmas present for her. She now lives out of state and this gift was meant to connect us. Suddenly the manuscript was being shared online amongst family and friends, it felt so beloved due to the bilingual nature and heartfelt message. Their support truly encouraged me to publish.

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

This book is my passion project. I work a regular desk job at a regular office and love my work/life balance. I have previously worked as a teacher, I’ve worked in the travel industry, and I’ve worked in theaters and various nonprofits. I’d like to think of myself like the butterfly in the book- I’ve created my own wings as a collage of my experiences. I don’t regret very much.

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

I have been visiting various classroom reading times to share my book in my hometown and hope to expand very soon. Seeing the kids’ reactions to the story, the pictures, and the heart of it all is absolutely breathtaking. I hope this grows.

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

I would hope for a mashup of DeBussy and Menken. I would seek out uplifting, inspiring, and heart-happy music to accompany the joy of the caterpillar’s journey into her wings.

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

The heart of the story is that growth and change does not need to always come from pain or dissatisfaction. The caterpillar is coming into her own out of curiosity and the joy of discovery. At the end of the story, she has a new appreciation from where she came from. I wanted to nurture that approach to self-discovery, as opposed to disdain or ingratitude. The positivity of the book is my proudest element that I wish to continue in any future works.

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

I am currently drafting a new story about birds with an underlying message of community and coming together while staying true to individuality. I am truly looking forward to what that blossoms into.

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

Atmosphere Press was phenomenal to work with. I highly encourage writers who wish to pursue this career to reach out to them as a resource.

You can buy Little Curiosity/Curiosita here.

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