Interview with Camila Londono, Lyrical Press Inc
Interview with Camila Londono, Lyrical Press Inc
Q. What was your childhood ambition?
To be the best at everything. It was almost a compulsion, and thankfully one I’ve (mostly) grown out of
Q. What ambitions do you still have?
To learn as much as I possibly can. I’m endlessly curious and absorb information like a sponge, so I tend to look for as many opportunities as possible to explore new subjects.
Q. What was your first job?
I was a carnie of sorts. I worked at an amusement park processing season passes and after that was done, I got moved into one of the areas with carnival games. I used to lure people into the “Test your Strength” game by using the much heavier guys’ mallet with the female setting on the machine, so it looked like I always hit the bell. In reality I think I never went past half playing the game as it should have been played.
Q. How did you end up working at Lyrical Press, Inc.?
I traveled to New York trying to find a publishing house where I could get some experience and see if it was the right path for me. I was unable to get a volunteer position anywhere, but then I found Lyrical Press during one of my online searches. I got hired after I finished the application process and I couldn’t be happier I decided to send that resume.
Q. Are you also a writer yourself?
No! I’m much more of a reader. I do produce the occasional abysmal piece of writing, but I don’t think I have the discipline and resilience to handle all the rejection in order to make it as an author.
Q. Do you think eBooks impinge on the market for traditional books or do buyers come from a different demographic?
Not at all. I think eBooks actually increase the market by providing convenience in many different ways. I don’t actually have many books in my ereader that I don’t have on my shelves because while I love the traditional, physical books, it’s so much easier to read on the go when carrying an ereader.
Q. How do people who don’t know you react when you tell them about your role at Lyrical Press, Inc.?
I think most are really surprised and impressed because I studied engineering. Most people wonder about what led me to editing and I get a lot of requests for book recommendations.
Q. What makes you laugh?
Almost anything. Mostly things I do. I also have a rather broad evil streak so sometimes I laugh a lot when “evil” things happen. But nothing serious.
Q. What three words would your friends use to describe you?
Actually, I discovered recently that they think I’m not embarrassed by anything. Apparently I do things that no one else would dare to do, so I guess daring or shameless might be one. I’d like to think they think I’m intelligent and caring as well.
Q. What’s the best thing that has happened to you in the last 12 months?
Probably my promotion to Executive Editor. It felt absolutely fantastic to know Renee and Frank (Rocco, the owners of Lyrical Press, Inc.) trust me to help them steer the house in the right direction. It was exciting and overwhelming but very, very satisfying.
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