Carol B. Allen is an author and international, award-winning creative professional. She has held leadership positions in firms that believe in strengthening community across the New York Tri State Area. She plays an active role in supporting opportunities to enhance young women’s interest in the STEM fields as well as advancing causes that protect the environment. Both books, ‘One If’ and ‘If Then’ are truly remarkable works of literature that dive deep into a world science and fiction. Both are the must-read books of the holiday season; they will entertain and leave you wanting more.
We had the chance to catch up with Bestselling Author Carol Allen for an exclusive interview, this is what she shared with us.
Why are the issues surrounding Climate change so important to Carol Allen?
We are at a precarious moment in time in which we can impact the future of our environment for all generations to come. It is not too late, but it is urgent. Not everyone believes it, but global warming is a fact. We have to understand and acknowledge our contributions to the eco-crisis and be aware that we are capable of stabilizing the dangers. We each have to let our voices be heard and be informative. We must communicate with our governing bodies and ensure our leaders are listening. And, in doing so, adapt the laws to protect our world from climate change.
Talk to us about the visualization of main character Parker Kittredge and how her character developed from Book 1 into Book 2?
At the heart of every good book, there is a story to tell that people want to hear. For me, Parker’s character embodies my story. In One If, the first book in the series, Parker is a brilliant, yet awkward and insecure, reclusive young girl. In the second book in the series, If Then, Parker evolves to become a powerful force—a true leader. Her coming-of-age journey is one of the most pivotal parts of my books. On so many levels, Parker represents my messages—believe in your dreams, you can be anything you want to be, and, importantly, contribute to our world and help make it better through diverse collaborative efforts. Science is for girls. And we have to give them the role models. As Geena Davis states through her non-profit organization, the Institute for Gender in Media, “If she can see it, she can be it.”
Fact vs. Fiction – what were some of the techniques you employed when intertwining the factual aspects of the books into the fictional aspect of the storyline? In other words, what are some of the tools you used to add the facts into the story?
Research. Research. And more research. Though I grew up in a family within a STEM-centric family, I leaned in to the creative arts. I loved to read and write even as a very young child. I guess you could say I have an active imagination. While crafting my messages in developing the Virago trilogy, I spent half my time learning about climatic change and understanding the why and the how. I interviewed science teachers and PhD’s in environmental studies. And still I received emails from readers across the globe who fact-checked some of my theories. Feel free to note here, I did make the corrections—in some cases, they were right!
Book 2 begs for Book 3 to come out. Can you share any sneak peeks into what the 3rd book in the series will provide your readers?
I can tell you one thing —readers will not be prepared for what’s coming. The heat turns up and readers should get ready to buckle up for a thrill-ride beyond their comprehension. It is the finale—you know!
When reading books 1 and 2 there’s a flare for a featured Hollywood film, almost like a ‘Hunger Games’ vibe. If your book could be turned into a film who would like love to play the role of Parker?
Ahhh—so many possibilities—so many capable young actresses who could best play Parker. I think my first pick is Sophia Lillis. I could swim in her eyes. She is a natural beauty like Parker. Sophia understands the genre and has played a teenager with telekinetic abilities. I could also see Chloe Grace Moretz, Sadie Sink, or Kieran Shipka in the role.
Bonus: If you could give your book to anyone in the world to read who would it be and why?
I have a lightning round answer here—Greta Thunberg. For so many reasons, Greta has a powerful voice, and she is heard around the world. Greta is a leader and empowers the generations of leaders to come. She has the ability to spread the word and bring about change. She already has!
Website: https://www.carolballen.com
