We chat with author Caroline George about her new novel Curses and Other Buried Things, along with writing, book recommendations, and more!
Hi, Caroline! Can you tell our readers a bit about yourself?
Caroline here! I’m the author of young adult novels Dearest Josephine, The Summer We Forgot, Curses and Other Buried Things, and more. I’ve been a storyteller since before I could hold a pencil. Writing challenges me to think deeper about the world and never fails to teach me something new.
Although born and raised in Georgia, I now live in a rural community in Central Wyoming, where I work for a ranch. Being here is a constant source of inspiration. When I’m not writing or filming cowboys, I can be found singing at my local haunt or hiking in the Bighorn Mountains.
When did you first discover your love for writing and stories?
I’ve always loved to tell stories. In middle school, I started writing seriously and made it a goal to be published by my sixteenth birthday. A naïve pursuit, some might say. Despite being told I was too young, I charged into the industry with stubborn determination and passion. I learned a lot, failed even more, and yet found a true love for writing, publishing, and advocating for my work.
Quick lightning round! Tell us:
- The first book you ever remember reading: Peter Pan
- The one that made you want to become an author: Nancy Drew . . . the whole series
- The one that you can’t stop thinking about: Hard question! I recently read Erin Phillips’s books and thoroughly enjoyed them.
Your latest novel, Curses and Other Buried Things, is out now! If you could only describe it in five words, what would they be?
Eerie. Provocative. Rooted. Gothic. Thoughtful.
What can readers expect?
A Southern Gothic novel about breaking generational curses set in the Okefenokee Swamp of South Georgia, with magical realism and plenty of folklore.
Where did the inspiration for Curses and Other Buried Things come from?
My own family history! About 80% of the book is based on true events and my experiences in the South. When I was a kid, my dad spent a lot of time studying our family ancestry. He told me about my great-great-great-great grandmother who was Creek and lived in the Okfenokee. People referred to her as a witch. Growing up, I heard countless stories about her. Those stories mixed with other family folklore inspired Curses and Other Buried Things.
Were there any moments or characters you really enjoyed writing or exploring?
I deeply related with Susana Prather’s journey and saw myself in her. I also enjoyed writing Obediah Owens and Missouri Jane. Their characters are dynamic and layered, which made writing them fun.
What’s next for you?
I’ll let you know when I find out. 😉
Lastly, do you have any book recommendations for our readers?
- Any books by Jeff Zentner or Court Stevens!
- Splinters of Scarlet by Emily Bain Murphy
- Creep by Lygia Day Penaflor
