Interview with Becki Willis, author of Plain Roots

What can you tell us about your new release, Plain Roots?

This is the story of a woman searching for her roots and for the family she’s never known. Her quest leads her to the Amish country and a surprising connection to the Plain people. She soon discovers that no family is perfect, and even in this idyllic setting, secrets and tragedies abound.

The story is set in one of my all-time favorite ‘happy places’ —the Amish countryside in Lancaster County, PA. To make certain the details were right—and to show the utmost respect for the Plain community—I had the book proofed by a local Mennonite woman, who in turn proofed some of the details with her Amish friends.

What or who inspired you to become an author?

I’ve always loved reading and creating stories in my head. As a child, I loved the Trixie Beldon and Little House on the Prairie series, and I dreamed of one day writing my own stories.

What’s on your top 5 list for the best books you’ve ever read?

How can I limit that to just 5?

Say you’re the host of a literary talk show. Who would be your first guest? What would you want to ask?

My first guest(s) would be an avid reader who could share what he or she finds so magical about books. After all, without readers, there would be no reason to publish my works.

What’s your favorite thing about writing?

Meeting so many new friends—those I create, and those who read my creations.

What is a typical day like for you?

I try to spend the morning writing and/or researching, but there are so many distractions—the phone, the internet, the lure of social media… Afternoons have the added distraction of appointments, the welcome distraction of family, and so much etcetera. If I’m in the middle of a book, my husband will encourage me to squeeze in a couple of more hours of writing after dinner.

What scene in Plain Roots was your favorite to write?

Probably a scene in Chapter 30, when Taryn, the protagonist, hides in plain sight as an Amish woman working a roadside stand. She teams up with young Deborah, who artfully dodges the truth and keeps Taryn’s identity safe.

Do you have a motto, quote or philosophy you live by?

My books may not change someone’s life. But they may change someone’s day—and sometimes, that’s just as important.

Becki Willis is the author of the new book Plain Roots

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