The Divining Wand Q&A [Author Interview]

Clinical nutritionist Cari Kamm became a debut novelist last fall with the publication of her book, Fake Perfect Me. Focusing on a character trying to be perfect for acceptance and happiness, the novel has been described as:

A poignant tale of learning one’s true self worth.

And it has received the following praise:

“…a deliciously dark, witty, and delightful novel!” –Lynda Curnyn, Author of Bombshell

“Great fun while tackling a serious issue many women face.” –Nicole Bokat, Author of What Matters Most

“The novel is written in a voice that endears readers to Isabella, and they will find themselves cheering her on.” –Heather Hummel, Author of The Universe is my Sugar Daddy

“I recommend Cari Kamm’s enchanting first novel, Fake Perfect Me.” –Kristin Buettner, Women’s Health Magazine

To learn more about the author, please read her “official” bio:

Cari Kamm holds a Master of Science Degree in Clinical Nutrition from New York University.

A native of West Virginia, Kamm earned a Bachelor of Science degree in Human Nutrition and Food from West Virginia University. Upon graduation, she entered New York University where in the course of her clinical work, she focused on the study of Vitamins & Minerals, Research and various disease states.
Kamm has completed her first novel, Fake Perfect Me. During her writing process, she discovered her favorite word – “Truth.” Living your truth and being true to yourself, is one of the most important themes that the protagonist Isabella Reynolds explores throughout the journey of Fake Perfect Me. A heart-warming–and often heart-wrenching–tale with a valuable lesson — to love one’s self.

Cari is currently working on her second novel. She lives in New York City.

Now let’s get to know the real Cari Kamm, upclose and personal:

Q: How would you describe your life in 8 words?
A: A creative, educational, inspirational, humble and truthful journey.

Q: What is your motto or maxim?
A: ”If you don’t control your destiny someone else will.”

Q: How would you describe perfect happiness?
A: ”Waking up every morning with enthusiasm.”

Q: What’s your greatest fear?
A: Loss of passion for life.

Q: If you could be anywhere in the world right now, where would you choose to be?
A: I would want to be exactly where I am now. Living in New York City and finding my way.

Q: With whom in history do you most identify?
A: Dreamers.

Q: Which living person do you most admire?
A: My Aunt and mentor. She is the definition of unconditional love. Her support is a blessing and I admire her passion for life and her family.

Q: What are your most overused words or phrases
A: Literally.
You don’t even understand.
Ridiculous.

Q: If you could acquire any talent, what would it be?
A: To sing! I adore words and writing them, but to sing would be amazing. I’m so moved by the emotion and passion a singer can inspire an audience.

Q: What is your greatest achievement?
A: Learning the true meaning of self-worth and having the courage and passion to be the person I want to be and live the life I have always dreamed of.

Q: What’s your greatest flaw?
A: Worrying. I know it’s a useless emotion!

Q: What’s your best quality?
A: You will always get the truth from me.

Q: What do you regret most?
A: No regrets. Years ago I learned that embracing it all makes everything worth while especially learning from my mistakes. I strive to step forward stronger, smarter and smiling.

Q: If you could be any person or thing, who or what would it be?
A: I’m happy as me so I would have to say a duck. Ducks mate for life so I adore their dedication to finding their soul mates!

Q: What trait is most noticeable about you?
A: My hair. People always tell me they can spot my head anywhere.

Q: Who is your favorite fictional hero?
A: Michael Green (Andy Garcia), When a man loves a woman.

Q: Who is your favorite fictional villain?
A: Tom Ripley, The Talented Mr. Ripley. That’s a villain!

Q: If you could meet any athlete, who would it be and what would you say to him or her?
A: Nancy Kerrigan, figure skater. I would like to know what personally got her through her tragedy and allowed her not to give up.

Q: What is your biggest pet peeve?
A: Planning far in advance. I’m not a last minute kind of girl.

Q: What is your favorite occupation, when you’re not writing?
A: The skin care industry. I love skin. It’s both a tissue and organ and I find it fascinating!

Q: What’s your fantasy profession?
A: I’m still pinching myself with being an author, but I would have to say a pilot! I love traveling and you get to help people reach their destinations.

Q: What 3 personal qualities are most important to you?
A: Humor, Honesty, and Heart.

Q: If you could eat only one thing for the rest of your days, what would it be?
A: Pasta

Q: What are your 5 favorite songs?
A: Cocoon, Jack Johnson
She left on a Monday, Bic Runga
When it doesn’t come easy, Patty Griffin
I’m yours, Jason Mraz
Samson, Regina Spektor

Q: What are your 5 favorite books of all time?
A: Soul Stories, Gary Zukav
Pride & Prejudice, Jane Austen
To Kill a Mockingbird, Harper Lee
House of Sleep, Jonathen Coe
Can You Keep a Secret? Sophie Kinsella

With a zest for life, a passion for truth, and a curiosity to explore whatever intrigues her, Cari Kamm is a new author to follow on Twitter and friend on Facebook.

3 Tips To Shed Fake Perfect…

Everything you need is right there inside of you.

During a radio interview yesterday morning, Yolanda Shoshana, asked me to give  women who were listening three tips to shed, their fake perfect selves?

Number 1: Acknowledge that perfect doesn’t exist.  That it is more important to live for yourself than under the “P” theme. So many people at some degree are being fake perfect about something. What’s the point? You have this life, so live it your way.

Number 2: Take time to examine the relationship you have with yourself. Acknowledge it and realize how it naturally affects everything and every relationship in your life.  The relationship with your boyfriend, husband, friends, co workers and even strangers.

Number 3: Realize YOUR power.  I’m a huge believe in taking responsibilities for all your actions. When we blame anyone, we give up our power to change and live the life we want to live.

To read an excerpt and to purchase Fake Perfect Me, visit www.carikamm.com or any online retailer.

Listen to the interview here:  http://www.blogtalkradio.com/yolandashoshana/2010/11/14/get-into-fake-perfect-me-with-cari-kamm

CK

I Wish. I WILL.

“While wishing and hoping makes you a dreamer, acting and doing makes you someone who can turn dreams into reality.” – Nan S. Russell

At times I catch myself saying, “I wish….” I adore words and I love writing as the art itself has allowed me to find me through me.  Every time I put my fingertips to keys (or pen to paper) I learn a bit more about Cari.  I could be doing everything and nothing. I could be in deep thought or being a complete dork.  We all have that part that allows ourselves to hear our inner voice.  We all have a passion, it is up to us to recognize and embrace it. The role of this art can be defined and described by you and only you.  Your inner voice only belongs to you.

I have always been a dreamer, a believer in everything greater than myself. When I was a little girl, I used to always quiz people and stir up a conversation always intending to use the line, “It’s like the wind.  You can’t see it, but you can feel it.”  I am so grateful for  the people, places, and experiences that have influenced me to think about my life, who I am, who I want to be and where I want to go.

Over the weekend, I pretended I was a tourist in my own city.  In New York, this is quite easy.  I randomly ended up on the Upper West Side.  I walked into the open courtyard of Lincoln Center (probably haven’t been there in a year) and stood up over the fountain to make a wish. I made a wish.  I believe in making wishes, I am a dreamer (a big one.) However, as much as I will use “I wish” I will say and believe in “I will.”  That is how we truly turn our dreams into reality.

I walked away from the fountain that day a penny short and a wish in my heart.  It was quite adorable as just as I made my wish; two little girls (probably ten years old) were tossing a penny in each wishing one-day to be professional ballerinas.  They tossed in their wish as that sat on a sunny Saturday afternoon in Lincoln Center staring at the oversized American Ballet theater sign that hung over the courtyard.

Wish for what you want.  Say to yourself, I will.  Now, what are you waiting for?

CK