Featured Interview With Karin Mitchell
Tell us a little about yourself. Where were you raised? Where do you live now?
I’m a former South African journalist and have always wanted to tell stories people might not be aware of. I was raised in the capital city, Pretoria, which I traded a few years ago for a sleepy little town next to the Kruger National Park. This town is truly a gem, where wildlife and living simple is celebrated. I started playing golf this year, which I really enjoy – and it forces one not to think about anything else – not even deadlines!
At what age did you realize your fascination with books? When did you start writing?
I was an early reader and my parents had to force me to put down books and have dinner. I started writing poetry when I was about 11 or 12 years old. I realized at High School that I always got excited when we had to write essays, as it came naturally to me. After University, I entered the media industry and wrote reports on an hourly basis. It was only in 2016 that I started writing full time.
Who are your favorite authors to read? What is your favorite genre to read. Who Inspires you in your writings?
I am quite fond of Khaleid Hosseini and Paulo Coelho. My favourite genres are however non-fiction and suspense. There’s not necessarily an individual who inspires me – but if I come across a beautiful or inspiring phrase in print or tv/film, that will be enough to trigger my creativity.
Tell us a little about your latest book?
South Africa saw the rise of a white separatist militia known as the Boeremag in the early 2000s, a few years after the country became a democracy. Convinced that their existence was under threat, the Boeremag devised a coup and planted bombs across the country while evading the authorities. I interviewed the alleged mastermind in prison for approximately 5 years. This book chronicles the longest running criminal trial in South African history, piecing together court transcripts and interviews through in-depth journalism to explore the dynamics and ideals at the source of the movement and the coup. Above all, it offers a firsthand look at the dark consequences of nationalism and populism.
Connect with the Author on their Websites and Social media profiles
Karin Mitchell’s Website