PHOTO: Author Kern Carter, celebrated novelist and mentor, shares his journey from indie publishing to literary success.
Mastering Craft, Embracing Vulnerability, Inspiring New Generations
Kern Carter shares insights into crafting emotional storytelling, mentoring emerging writers, overcoming publishing challenges, and exploring personal experiences to create compelling, authentic narratives that connect deeply with readers.
Kern Carter has cemented his place as a celebrated author known for his compelling storytelling and ability to explore life’s complexities. His novels, such as And Then There Was Us and Boys and Girls Screaming, dive deep into themes of family, friendship, trauma, and healing, captivating readers with their emotional depth and cultural relevance. Based in Toronto, Kern is not just an accomplished novelist but also an educator, workshop leader, and sought-after public speaker, bridging gaps between literature, craft, and popular culture.
In an interview with Reader’s House, Kern shared insights into his creative process, career journey, and his vision for the future of storytelling. One of the standout aspects of Kern’s work lies in his approach to writing emotionally intense stories and crafting deep, relatable characters. He explained, “I start every novel thinking about the emotion I want to be felt throughout the story.” In And Then There Was Us, for example, anger dominated the narrative, reflecting the protagonist’s experiences. For Kern, writing emotions isn’t about forcing feelings onto the page but placing characters in circumstances where raw, authentic reactions emerge.
“I start every novel thinking about the emotion I want to be felt throughout the story.” – Kern Carter
Transitioning from indie author to signing with major publishers wasn’t without its challenges. Kern candidly noted that the biggest hurdle was resisting the comfort that comes with success. “It’s easy to see ‘Penguin’ attached to your name and feel like you’ve made it,” he said. “But for me, my goal is to touch millions of readers with my stories, and until that goal is reached, then it doesn’t matter who the publisher is.” This tenacity and clear sense of purpose have been crucial to his continued growth.
For aspiring writers struggling to shape their ideas into coherent narratives, Kern offers straightforward advice: seek help and embrace feedback. Reflecting on his early days, he shared a turning point in his career when agents rejected his manuscript but one provided detailed feedback. “I shoved that hurt aside and registered in a Novel Writing course at a local college,” he said. That manuscript ultimately became Boys and Girls Screaming, his pivotal first published novel.
Community building has also been integral to Kern’s work. He believes in being vulnerable and rigorous in his research, creating trust with emerging writers who value his authenticity and expertise. This approach has allowed him to mentor others effectively while sharing his experiences in a way that resonates on a personal level.
When it comes to turning a passion for writing into a sustainable career, Kern preaches “aggressive patience.” He describes this as a balance between patience and actively working toward one’s goals. “Motion builds momentum, and it’s the momentum that will form the building blocks of your career,” he said. He also emphasizes the importance of paying attention to cultural shifts, leveraging them to create new opportunities.
Kern’s writing often tackles sensitive themes like trauma, healing, and emotion—something he attributes to his personal journey. Becoming a father at 18 was one of the most transformative and traumatic experiences of his life, shaping the authentic emotions that flow through his characters. While his novels may largely stem from his imagination, the emotions conveyed are born from real moments in his life.
Technical mastery, according to Kern, is key to connecting with readers. “The other half of writing is technical, and if you aren’t skilled enough technically, the quality of your communication suffers,” he said. For Kern, prioritizing craft allows him to build a stronger connection with his audience, ensuring his storytelling resonates on a deeper level.
What’s next for Kern Carter? The novelist is currently working on three new story ideas and exploring different genres, with one project already 1/3 complete and another in pitch mode with his agent. While his creative journey hasn’t always been smooth—he recently endured a challenging period where ideas were scarce—he now finds himself brimming with inspiration once more. “I can’t wait for them to be out into the world,” he said with enthusiasm.
Kern Carter’s story is one of resilience, vulnerability, and dedication to his craft. His work serves as both a roadmap and a source of inspiration for writers everywhere, proving that through passion, perseverance, and a willingness to learn, extraordinary things can be achieved.
(This article is based on an interview originally published in Reader’s House magazine.)
