Spotlight On Writers
Carol Bennetts
- Where do you originate from?
I am a Jersey girl. I was born in central New Jersey, USA, in the 1950s, and our multi-generational family settled in suburbia when I was in second grade. New Jersey, despite its naysayers, is a scenic composite of hardwood and piney forests, rolling hills, sandy beaches, and historic towns. In my childhood, we visited small farm stands for the world’s best tomatoes and corn on the cob. I returned there this spring for a visit and took the opportunity to partake of my favorite food: NJ pizza. One of my mottoes is that “any pizza is better than no pizza,” but NJ pizza is the best!
- What do you cherish most about the place you call home?
My current home is on the Texas Gulf Coast. I’ve spent 48 years of my adult life in Texas and Louisiana, moving every two years for ten years for employment until we found our forever home near Houston. I earned my teaching degree in Louisiana and spent most of my teaching and counseling career in the Houston area. Here you have diverse cultures, friendly people, cuisine of every kind, and a rugged approach to the extreme weather. Although we only have two seasons, summer (April to October) and fall/winter/spring (December to February), we always put our best foot forward. My favorite time of all is visiting nearby Galveston Island, the setting of my book, Galveston Goddess.
- What ignites your creativity?
I can be inspired by a word or a phrase (I love writing prompts, especially Spillwords’ monthly prompts). I notice people’s quirky personalities, out-of-place objects, and situations that appear to be omen-like signs that draw my attention. But, for me, it takes collaboration with writing peers to keep my creativity going. I look forward to the stimulation of my weekly critique group. I also love reading mystery stories of all kinds, watching old-school monster movies, and seeing the world through the eyes of my grandchildren.
- Do you have a favorite word, and could you incorporate it into a poetic phrase?
When I was a teacher and school counselor, when asked if something was possible, my response was always “in theory.” I became quite famous for my theories, which no doubt came from my science education background. I consider myself to be both a left-and right-brained thinker, despite this now discredited myth, as I am both creative and logical.
There once was a girl with some theories
Who was eager to share with her peeries.
When they laughed and instead called her dearie,
She blamed it on their being beery.
- What is your pet peeve?
A family saying I remember from my childhood goes, “You are as subtle as a brick in a punch bowl.” I cringe to see people put purses, shoes, used tissues, etc., on a table where people eat their meals. I especially notice the used tissues. This relates to hygiene, of course, but also to my awareness of objects that are not where they are supposed to be. I’m proud to share this trait with Agatha Christie’s Hercule Poirot!
- How would you describe the essence of Carol Bennetts?
Essence…the quality that determines all others. I would have to say that I am Resolute. This trait allows me, once challenged, not to back down. I grew up in a single-parent, multi-generational household that had its conflicts and personality clashes. Being able to stand up for my younger self was a crucial skill. A Microsoft Copilot search will tell you, “A Jersey girl is a woman from New Jersey, often characterized by strong personality, loyalty, and distinctive style, blending both cultural pride and bold, unapologetic traits.” Despite spending most of my life in the South, I remain a Jersey girl to this day.
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