Kern Carter on the Craft and Commitment of Being an Author

Hungry Authors is back! In this episode, Ariel & Liz interview Kern Carter, an author and ghostwriter, about his journey in writing. They discuss the value of platforms like Substack for writers and delve into Kern’s dedication to becoming a full-time author. Kern shares his strategic approach to writing, which includes developing his skills and taking calculated risks, such as self-publishing his first two books. He highlights the importance of receiving and acting on feedback, sharing a pivotal moment when a literary agent’s tough critique pushed him to enroll in an intensive novel-writing program. They also discuss the lucrative yet underappreciated world of ghostwriting and the emotional and practical benefits it offers writers. Kern shares insights from authors who have influenced him, including Toni Morrison and Marlon James, and emphasizes the ongoing need for learning and improvement in the craft. The conversation is both an inspiring and pragmatic guide for aspiring writers looking to turn their passion into a career.

Kern Carter is a novelist who is celebrated for his captivating storytelling. With books such as And Then There Was Us and Boys and Girls Screaming, his stories explore themes of family, friendship, and the drama that can fracture those relationships. Kern has built a devoted readership not just for his novels, but for his writing on the intersection between literature and popular culture, both historically and through a contemporary lens. Kern also teaches professional writing at the college level, hosts workshops on craft and storytelling, and is in-demand as a public speaker for his expertise on creative culture. He is based in Toronto.

Learn more about Kern at https://www.kerncarter.com/.