Karen Cushman asked Barbara O’Connor, “My newest book, War and Millie McGonigle, started with a place: South Mission Beach, San Diego, where my husband grew up. You, too, have written books set in a place alive and rich. Will you share some insights into place in your story, Wish?”

Q: Did you choose the setting first, before characters and plot? Did the story grow from the place or did the place grow from the story?

O’Connor: The story grew from the place. That’s the first time that has ever happened for me. I always set my stories in the South and that setting is always ever present. But those beautiful Blue Ridge Mountains are particularly special to me. I knew that’s where my story would be set … even before I had a story.

Q: How/where did you find the details that brought your place to life?

O’Connor: I grew up near the Blue Ridge and Smokey Mountains and spent a lot of time there. I went to summer camp in those mountains as a child. I remember so vividly the cool nights, the smoky haze in the mornings, the ferns and moss … all of it. After college, I moved far away, first to California, then to Boston. Seven years ago, I returned to those mountains so my memories have become my reality.

Q: Did the place enrich the story, or did it create limitations? Did you have to change details about the place?

O’Connor: Yes, I think the place enriched the story … and, no limitations. I didn’t change any details about the place. I confess I did have to research to find the names of some of the trees and shrubs, but everything stayed true to my experience.

Q: What would you like us to know about the place you chose for your book?

O’Connor: I’d like you to know that these glorious mountains are beautiful and lush and good for your soul. You can find waterfalls and ferns and blackberries and black bears and maybe a stray dog. (Reference to Wish … so you’ll have to read the book. haha)

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Thank you to Barbara O’Connor for bringing us closer to the Blue Ridge and Smokey Mountains.

Learn more about Barbara O’Connor.

Learn more about Wish, including a video interview with Barbara.