I think my favorite character in the book has to be Backus. I'm not sure his character is modeled after anyone I know. I never really had a grandfather in my life, but I suppose he represents what I would have wanted in one. When we first meet him in the story he seems to be crusty and even a bit of prude. He is serious about his role as a leader in the colony and expects everyone to understand how important he is.

Even though he may have some not-so-lovable characteristics, I still find myself really liking him. I think its because he really believes in who he is, and that makes it easier to believe in him. And, of course, in the end, his true character is revealed. I mean when he . . . Oh, wait, I don't want to give that much of the story away! I guess you better get to reading!

I often get asked how I came up with the idea for The Calling. It is difficult for me to explain without sounding a bit off my nut, but I'll give it a try. I'm sure writers have their own way of developing stories. Some take a very business-like approach and outline and prewrite, and all that other good stuff that was taught to them by some well-meaning english teacher. That has never worked for me.

Believe it or not, I actually hear characters talking to me in my head. They kind of pop up on their own and beginning telling me a story. Sometimes they don't stick around very long, and I never really get a chance to do anything with them. However, some, like Riley, the main character in The Calling, won't leave me alone until I put something down on paper. Sound crazy? Yeah, I know, but that really is how it works for me.