1. Why did you write Diary of a Discount Donna: a Novel?
I wanted to write an inspiring story about a woman who didn't just let life's circumstances get her down, but rises up to fulfill her full potential. She does it with grace, charm, and wit. I've known so many people (women especially) who had dreams when they were younger, but had setbacks in life that causes them to lose hope. Worse, they begin to lose belief in themselves. Diary of a Discount Donna: a Novel deals with this in different levels. The main character, Cynthia Donna Sanders, loses hope on all levels, except for one - the belief that her father will one day come out of his coma. She clings to this belief by keeping the 3 ridiculous promises she made him just before he fell into a coma. Jack Fury, another character, is a man who lost belief in love. William Prince, lost his belief in people. Despite all of this, these characters manage to be the most charming and gracious people.
2. Where did you get the idea about a "Discount Donna"?
I notice that there were people, even myself, who falls into this demographic. I have a background in corporate marketing, especially demographic research (targeted marketing), and I've notice that there was a category of people who loves to shop, loves quality beautiful things, but are budget conscious. Call us smart shoppers, but since we're budget conscious, but like nice things, we usually shop in high-end department stores or boutiques for quality things, but only when things are on sale. I came up with the terms, "Discount Donna" as a way to describe this shopper attitude - we're like prima donnas, but pride ourselves for how good a bargain hunter we are. Believe it or not, some of the most wealthiest people fall into this demographic - celebrity stars are notorious discount donnas. They love designers and jewelers giving them freebies. Corporate executives are discount donnas. I've known some women corporate executives who insists on flying first class or dining in top restaurants just because it's free for them (the company's paying for it), but would never indulge in the same things if they were paying for it themselves. That's an extreme, I know, but I'm sure you know people like that.
I also am more in tune with this whole area since I worked in the promotions department for the travel/hotel industry where there are promotions every single week. I've learned from working in promotions, that there are lots of Discount Donnas in the world.
3. Who are your favorite characters in Diary of a Discount Donna?
I love all of them. When I create a character for the novel or the screenplay version, I sketch them out as a 3-dimensional person. I know their family history, their insecurities, their favorite pastimes, how they walk, how they talk. Even the villains - Cynthia's stepfamily Kelly, Paris, and Britney Brott have the potential to be redeemable.
4. Where can I purchase a copy of Diary of a Discount Donna: a Novel?
For sure on sparklesoup.com.
