Q&A WITH AUTHOR LIKA CLARK

What is The Yellow Suitcase about? What’s the storyline?

There are three main themes in the book, one is about love of self and others. Another theme is about freeing the mind of fear and anxiety, where a young, beautiful and romantic girl evolves into a strong and fearless person. She puts her beauty, fashion sense and social life on hold to focus on her priorities of providing for her family and collecting experiences for her future. Where she transitions from comfort to fear, and then back again, and in the process, she becomes open and receptive to the world and people around her. She realizes life is a rollercoaster ... just hold on. And finally, it's about being who you are, and to live without worrying about what others may say or think. Love, trust and respect are all interconnected - we need them all because ... we are all connected.

What is the genre?

Genre: Fiction, Sub-Genres: Contemporary / Romance

Where did you get the name?

When my husband Brian and I met and started getting to know each other, he told me that I have many interesting stories, and that I should write a book. One day I spoke with my brother and nonchalantly mentioned I was thinking of writing a book. He was quiet for a while and then responded “You should! You should write the book and name it “The Yellow Suitcase!" (Sadly, he passed away a year later).

Who is the book for?

The book is for everyone - every age, race, or gender. Love is the answer because no matter what the situation, we are all looking for happiness, and happiness comes from love!

What do you think readers will get out of this?

Don’t ever give up! Believe in your dreams, seriously! Love yourself like someone you love. “We really only love when we know how to love, how to take care of love, and how to be in love.”

What was your writing process? How long did it take

Much of the narrative and creativity flowed, but there were also moments of struggle, in finding the right stories in the right places. It took many iterations with a lot of editing, but it was a labor of love. Overall it took about two years.

What was your inspiration?

When I was in Hawaii on the beautiful island of Kauai, I read The Catcher in the Rye by J.D Salinger. It's simplicity and honesty was a big inspiration for me to write The Yellow Suitcase.