On The Table Read Magazine, “the best entertainment eBook magazine UK“, Naomi Cahen, an autistic graphic designer and author from Lausanne, discusses her book My Own Two Wheels, which took two years to write, driven by a need for empowerment after personal challenges.
Written by JJ Barnes
I interviewed Naomi Cahen about her life and career, the experiences that inspired her to write her new book, On My Own Two Wheels, and her creative process.
Tell me a bit about who you are.
I’m a graphic designer and an autistic author and advocate working in Lausanne. I am currently on a course to become a mental health peer-practitioner.
When did you first WANT to write a book?
As an old teen, around 17 years old…
When did you take a step to start writing?
At about 26 I started going to writing groups.
How long did it take you to complete your first book from the first idea to release?
2 years.
What made you want to write On My Own Two Wheels?
At the time, my life had suddenly partially imploded because of two consecutive breakups, so I felt I had less to lose and doing something difficult could potentially give me a kind of empowering creative energy.
What were your biggest challenges with writing On My Own Two Wheels?
The anxiety around organising the bike trip was high. All the questions and doubts seemed unmanageable. So getting over that was the hardest. I did it by writing… and it does constitute a third of the book (!). Also the fear of travelling was calmed by the act of writing about it and visa versa (the fear or writing by the act of travelling for it).
What was your research process for On My Own Two Wheels?
No research needed for this! Got it all in me brain!
How did you plan the structure of On My Own Two Wheels?
The only structure I could follow with said brain was chronological! Easy.
Did you get support with editing, and how much editing did On My Own Two Wheels need?
The first proper draft I did on my own and had some support from a little ground of writing buddies. Then when I found a publisher in Switzerland, we went over it several times again.
What is the first piece of writing advice you would give to anyone inspired to write a book?
Don’t judge your first draft. Respect it deeply. Then, go over it AFTER it’s done. And do be drastic about it, don’t let any soft bits pass. Cut it down to what sings to you every time you read over it.
Can you give me a hint about any further books you’re planning to write?
Still working on it… Something around autism, complex subject, which has become a true interest since my diagnosis four years ago (right after writing my book).
And, finally, are you proud of your accomplishment? Was it worth the effort?
Does anyone ever say no?? Of course it was worth it. But it does not make it easier to write a second book…!
Pop all your book, website and social media links here so the readers can find you:
Amazon: https://amzn.to/3OaXVzX
The Swiss publisher’s page for the book in French: https://www.slatkine.com/fr/editions-slatkine/75534-book-07211148-9782832111482.html
My graphic design website: www.naomicahen.ch
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