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Gail Simone, best known for her work on beloved comics like “Birds of Prey,” “Wonder Woman,” and “Uncanny X-Men,” recently ventured into the world of novel writing with her debut, “Red Sonja: Consumed.” In a recent interview, Simone opened up about the books that shaped her literary journey.
Her earliest literary love was “Peter Rabbit,” a relatable tale for a young Simone who grew up on a farm. But it was encountering “Justice League” issue 100 that truly sparked her passion for superheroes. “It always seemed to me that the women heroes in comics would accidentally have things happen to them, and then they’d have to take action,” she reflected. “Wonder Woman was diffrent. She defied her mother, left the island, didn’t need anyone to rescue her – I loved her.”
Simone credits her mother’s open-minded approach to reading for fostering her love of literature. “My mother did not censor anything that I read. I didn’t have to stay in a lane. I didn’t have to stay in an age group, you know? I could just read whatever,” she shared.
Simone recalled a time when she was bedridden with pneumonia. “She brought me every book in the library, stuff she thought I might like, even books she was reading.” Growing up in the countryside meant the local library was a bookmobile, a source of great excitement for young Simone. “I loved uncovering books and talking to the librarians,” she said.
Currently, Simone is engrossed in Julia Quinn’s “Bridgerton” novels, enjoying the contrast between the books and the popular TV adaptation. “They’re delightful,and it’s nice to read something where I don’t feel like I’m working while I’m reading,” she commented. She recently finished listening to the audiobooks of kamala Harris and Michelle Obama’s memoirs.
Looking ahead, Simone is eager to delve into John Barrowman’s “Hollow Earth” and Richard Osman’s ”thursday Murder Club” series, confessing her fondness for cozy mysteries.
## A Deep Dive into Comics With Gail Simone
**Archyde:** Welcome, Gail! You’ve had a long and illustrious career in comics, leaving your mark on iconic titles like ”Birds of Prey,” ”Wonder Woman,” and “Uncanny X-Men.” Now, you’ve even dipped your toes into the world of novel writing with “Red Sonja: Consumed.”
**Gail Simone:** Thanks for having me! it’s been quite a journey.
** Archyde:** We’re especially intrigued by your transition from comics to novels. What prompted this move, and what has been the biggest difference in the writing process?
**Gail simone:** It’s somthing I’ve always been considering. Writing comics and novels require different muscles. Comics are a very collaborative art form, working closely with artists and editors to tell a visual story. Novels allow for a deeper dive into the characters’ inner thoughts and motivations,which is exciting for me as a writer. “Red Sonja” felt like the perfect starting point. She’s a complex and compelling character who deserves a richer exploration, and the novel format gave me the space to do that.
**Archyde:** Engaging. Now, you’ve mentioned being passionate about superheroes since childhood.
Can you tell us more about your early influences and what sparked your love for the genre?
**Gail Simone:** It started with a children’s classic – ”Peter Rabbit.” Hearing about a tiny rabbit outsmarting a grumpy gardener really resonated with me! Growing up on a farm, I could relate to that farm setting.
But the real turning point was discovering “Justice League” issue 100. I remember feeling so empowered by these incredible heroes, especially the women. Back than, it seemed like female characters often had things happen *to* them, and they’d react. That didn’t quite sit right with me. I wanted to see them driving the narrative, taking charge, and proving their strength.
**Archyde:** That resonates with so manny comic book fans, especially those who grew up admiring these characters.
**Gail Simone:** Absolutely! It’s why I feel so honored to have worked on titles like ”Birds of Prey,” showcasing these amazing women with agency and grit.
** Archyde:** Well, we can’t wait to see where your writing journey takes you next. Thanks so much for sharing your insights with us!
A Look Inside the Bookshelf of Acclaimed Comic Book Writer Gail Simone
Table of Contents
When asked for book recommendations, this author takes a personalized approach. Instead of offering a single go-to title, they delve into the reader’s preferences, exploring what genres, characters, and even movies they enjoy to find the perfect fit. Recently, Stephen King’s “Fairy Tale” captivated this author, proving to be a page-turner they couldn’t put down. While a fan of horror, they confess to avoiding the genre before bedtime.
A Memorable Moment at the White House
A truly special moment occurred when this author was invited to speak at the White House during the Obama management. The topic: media representations of LGBTQ+ individuals and people with disabilities. The call came while they were at a convention in New York, suitcase packed with jeans, flip-flops, and Aerosmith T-shirts – hardly appropriate attire for the White House. A hasty trip to Macy’s yielded a suit, but shoe options proved more challenging. “Please, no one tell my mom I’m wearing flip-flops at the White House,” the author quipped at the start of their speech, instantly connecting with the audience. the response was heartwarming. People approached, revealing their own “Superman” socks and other quirky displays of fandom. It was a moment of shared passions and belonging.## A Deep Dive into Comics With Gail Simone
**Archyde:** Welcome, Gail! You’ve had a long and illustrious career in comics, leaving your mark on iconic titles like ”Birds of Prey,” ”Wonder Woman,” and “Uncanny X-Men.” Now, you’ve even dipped your toes into the world of novel writing with “Red Sonja: Consumed.”
**Gail Simone:** Thanks for having me! it’s been quite a journey.
** Archyde:** We’re especially intrigued by your transition from comics to novels. What prompted this move, and what has been the biggest difference in the writing process?
**Gail simone:** It’s somthing I’ve always been considering. Writing comics and novels require different muscles. Comics are a very collaborative art form, working closely with artists and editors to tell a visual story. Novels allow for a deeper dive into the characters’ inner thoughts and motivations,which is exciting for me as a writer. “Red Sonja” felt like the perfect starting point. She’s a complex and compelling character who deserves a richer exploration, and the novel format gave me the space to do that.
**Archyde:** Engaging. Now, you’ve mentioned being passionate about superheroes since childhood.
Can you tell us more about your early influences and what sparked your love for the genre?
**Gail Simone:** It started with a children’s classic – ”Peter Rabbit.” Hearing about a tiny rabbit outsmarting a grumpy gardener really resonated with me! Growing up on a farm, I could relate to that farm setting.
But the real turning point was discovering “Justice League” issue 100. I remember feeling so empowered by these incredible heroes, especially the women. Back than, it seemed like female characters often had things happen *to* them, and they’d react. That didn’t quite sit right with me. I wanted to see them driving the narrative, taking charge, and proving their strength.
**Archyde:** That resonates with so manny comic book fans, especially those who grew up admiring these characters.
**Gail Simone:** Absolutely! It’s why I feel so honored to have worked on titles like ”Birds of Prey,” showcasing these amazing women with agency and grit.
** Archyde:** Well, we can’t wait to see where your writing journey takes you next. Thanks so much for sharing your insights with us!
