Nicole Seitz on 'Saving Cicadas', inspiration

Author Nicole Seitz is a Southern girl at heart. Having been in the Lowcountry since 1996, her works have an undeniably Southern influence that draws the reader in.

She took the time to speak to Preview about her latest novel, an upcoming book reading, and the three books that she loved as a kid.

You can purchase Seitz's books from most booksellers in the area. In additon to the "Saving Cicadas" book launch fundraiser Dec. 9, you can also see Seitz at 11 a.m.-1 p.m. Dec. 5 at Waldenbooks in Charleston Place and 2-4 p.m. at Barnes & Noble in Mount Pleasant.

Q: Tell me about your latest book, "Saving Cicadas," which will be released Tuesday.

A: "Saving Cicadas" is my fourth novel set in South Carolina, narrated by 8-year-old Janie Macy. It's a story about holding on and learning to let go. (It's about) the journey of a struggling single mother who finds herself unexpectedly pregnant again.

Priscilla Lynn Macy packs the whole family into the car, including Rainey Dae, Janie's 17-year-old sister with Down's syndrome, and Poppy and Grandma Mona in the backseat. They take off on the last family "vacation" they'll ever have.

Seen through Janie's innocent eyes, "Saving Cicadas" is an illuminating and haunting tale about family, secrets and the difficult choices grown-ups make.

Q: What can we expect from the fundraiser/book launch at Florence Crittenton Home (19 Saint Margaret Street) at 5-8 p.m. Dec. 9?

A: It's free and open to the public, and I hope everyone comes, if only to drop in, say hello and grab a signed book!

Blue Bicycle Books will offer my other novels as well. We'll have wine and hors d'oeuvres, and I'll have some of my artwork on hand. I'll read from my new novel briefly about 7 p.m. Proceeds and donations will go to a very worthwhile cause, Florence Crittenton Programs of South Carolina.

Q: How do you approach writing?

A: I approach writing with my eyes closed in prayer. Otherwise, it's no good. Honestly, I'm always amazed when the words come.

I'm always thrilled when I hold a new book in my hand. I realize it's a blessing and a responsibility to write the best I can, every time. I give each book my all, as if it may be my last.

Q: What were your three favorite books as a child, and why?

A: My three favorite books as a child were: "Little Popcorn" by Sara Asheron (about a little firehouse dog who wants spots so he will belong), "Serendipity" by Stephen Cosgrove (the moral: knowing who you really are will bring you happiness), and "The Lonely Doll" by Dare Wright (a story about unconditional love).

When I look at these three, I see that as a child I longed for happiness, belonging and unconditional love, universal themes that I now bring to my own novels.