First & Last Name: Mary Potter Kenyon
What do you write? Non-fiction essays and articles, and working on a non-fiction book
What subjects do you write about? Couponing, cancer, marriage, parenting, mothering and writing
Have you been published? Yes
If published, please tell us about it. Over 200 articles and essays in magazines and newspapers as well as essays in 14 anthologies, including four Chicken Soup titles. One book on homeschooling published by small publisher in 1996.
What are you working on now? Non-fiction ethnographic research on the history of couponing and refunding that includes my personal history and profiles of other avid couponers.
Are you currently shopping a project for publication? Yes
What are you currently seeking? Agent, agent or publisher for current work in progress
Tell us about some of your favorite books, television shows or movies? I love books by Jodi Picoult, Elizabeth Berg, and Jan Karon. Faithfully watch "The Middle" and "Suburgatory."
What are your thoughts about publishing? I used to think it was enough to simply write well. It was 20+ years ago when I began writing, but the publishing world is changing. Now I know I have to build up a platform, diversify by teaching couponing workshops and writing classes, and learn to market myself and my work.Strangely enough, I am enjoying the challenge.
Can we quote you? Give us your favorite quote or saying. You can make it up or share one from someone you admire. "When God opens a door, walk right through it." I heard this at a writer's conference recently and have been following that advice. In a matter of a few weeks I have been hired to teach couponing workshops and a writing class, as well as speaking engagements at a women's retreat and a writer's conference. After my first couponing workshop, a large city newspaper approached me to do a recurring column. I have never had so much fun in my life, and all because these doors were opened to me, or I opened them and walked right through!
