Why Comic Book Writer Gail Simone Wore Flip-Flops to the White House

A Look Inside the Bookshelf of Acclaimed Comic Book Writer Gail Simone

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.

Connecting Through Books and Shared Passions

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!