Alison Schaffir
Alison Schaffir is a social media strategist and young adult author living in New York City. A lover of contemporary fiction, Alison developed her debut novel, Your Dream for Me, fusing two of her favorite interests, fashion and theater, together. She graduated from University of Richmond with a major in business marketing and a minor in psychology. When she’s not making up stories in her head, she loves indulging in Trader Joe’s lava cakes, belting early 2000s pop hits, and spending time with her friends and family.
Twitter: @ASchaffir
What’s the oddest thing a reader has ever asked you?
This is more like the funniest thing. After I finished my debut, one of my friends asked me if I’d write her in as the “villain” of my next novel. It makes me laugh because she’s such a lovely person, so it’s hard to envision writing about her as an enemy. With that said, I do think there’s a benefit to stepping out of your comfort zone and pushing yourself as a writer. One way to do that is by subverting personalities or writing characters that are completely different from what you’re like in real life, in order to add depth or infuse conflict. All food for thought for my next novel!
Favorite non-reading activity?
Lately, I’ve been getting more into cooking. I work for a food delivery company, so that’s been a big motivator to experiment in the kitchen, plus the meals come with recipe cards so I can learn step-by-step. There’s nothing more relaxing to me than turning on soft music, combining ingredients, and smelling the aroma of your meal wafting toward you. Plus, I love that feeling of triumph when my dish comes out like the recipe (and doesn’t set off my fire alarm).
Have you ever experienced Imposter Syndrome?
Definitely! We’ve all experienced Imposter Syndrome at one point or another, and it’s easy to fall into the trap of self-doubt. Whenever Imposter Syndrome hits, I remind myself that everyone has unique ideas and experiences to bring to the table. Especially with writing, no one is more qualified to tell your story than you are. While others might appear more knowledgeable or farther along, what matters most is that you’re passionate about what you do and are willing to learn as you go. Plus, the greatest reward is finding out that your words have left a mark or inspired someone else.
Do you collect anything? If so, what, why, and for how long?
I’d say I’m an emotional hoarder, if that’s a term? I love to collect cards from people, especially when there’s a personal note on the inside. Whether it’s from a birthday, graduation, or holiday, I keep a big stack of them in my desk drawer and have a really hard time parting ways with them, even if years have gone by. For me, each message represents a snapshot in time and a unique memory that I shared with someone I care about.
What brings you great joy?
New York City in the wintertime. I love the twinkling lights and seasonal decorations. Between the holiday markets, storefront windows, ice skating rinks, and festive displays, there’s always something to do in the winter. You can’t help but feel that childlike sense of wonder when you experience your first snowfall or hear the comforting sound of holiday instrumentals playing in the background. It makes me want to pour a cup of hot chocolate, grab a warm blanket, and cozy up by the fire.
