Meet Author McKenna Vietti
A literary meet-'n'-greet in 10 pictures or less
Welcome back!
Where are my California natives? We share our home state with author McKenna Vietti.
By day, she’s working toward a license in marriage and family therapy. In the corners, she’s a writer with a heart for the Lord.
Her new book speaks to those who are seeking God’s wisdom as they grapple with who they are and why they’re here.
Now, McKenna will take it away…
All About McKenna
I am a writer of poems, articles, and countless stories.
I’ve written for a variety of online publications, including literary magazines Introvert, Dear; Calla Press; and Drunk Monkeys.
I recently published my first book Prothesis: Losing Myself to Find Him in 2024.
I completed my M.A. from Simpson University in 2024 and am working toward licensure as a marriage and family therapist, as well as continuing to make my way in the world as a writer.
I love getting to know people because everyone is so unique; the labels I often use to describe myself are similar to what is listed above. However I love getting to know and connect with the real person; there’s only so much we can share in small details!
Q: What is some great writing advice you’ve come across?
Gail Carson Levine wrote in Writing Magic to save everything you write. I read that when I was probably ten or eleven years old and I’ve taken those words to heart; I really haven’t deleted or thrown anything away since!
There’s also a quote by Richard Price (who I am aware isn’t a writing teacher, but his advice has stuck with me) that goes: “You don’t write about the horrors of war. No. You write about a kid’s burnt socks lying in the road.”
Q: Do you have a motto or maxim that guides your writing?
Years ago, when I was feeling discouraged about one of my projects, I told someone that everything had already been written; there were no new ideas. Everything had already been done. That person told me that no one can say it the way I can. Maybe the idea has been presented, but not in the way that I will present it. That has always guided me because it shows that we all have unique perspectives and will have different views to offer.
Q: Where and when do you write?
I write everywhere—the more spontaneous, the better. I write snippets of things on my phone (in my Notes app), on random sheets of paper while I’m at my desk at work, in the car (as long as I’m not driving, although I have taken liberties as I’m sitting at some of those long red lights). The other night I was cooking dinner and I had a stream of thoughts go through my head so I started scribbling as the pasta was cooking. I can’t plan times to write because the inspiration doesn’t always hit–so when it’s there, I have to take advantage.
Q: What books do you love reading?
Prior to grad school, I was reading several books a month. During my program, I was only reading textbooks! Now that things have calmed back down, I’m back to reading more in the evenings and on my weekends. Lately, I’ve really been into John Grisham novels. I love old Gothic romance (ex., Rebecca by Daphne du Maurier). As a teen, I loved Shannon Hale. If she were ever to write another adult fiction, I probably wouldn’t think twice before buying it. As a child, though, I loved fairy tales and I think I still love those most of all.
All About McKenna’s Book
Prothesis: Losing Myself to Find Him (June 2024)
From Calla Press Publishing: Told through the lens of one woman’s spiritual journey, McKenna Vietti gently guides readers through complex questions about purpose, vocation, and identity. Relying on biblical wisdom and reflective prose, Prothesis draws the reader to rest in God—despite holy laments and broken dreams—and intentionally live up to one’s unique calling.
The mood board below is an attempt to visually evoke the emotional tones in my writing.
Books that McKenna read and loved
One Thousand Gifts by Ann Voskamp
The Book Thief by Markus Zuzak
The Great Gatsby by F. Scott Fitzgerald
The Testament by John Grisham
A billionaire dies and leaves his fortune to an unlikely heir: a missionary serving deep in the jungles of Brazil. The only one who can reach her is Nate, an attorney recently released from rehab and wanted by the IRS.
Jo & Laurie by Margaret Stohl & Melissa De La Cruz
The ending I needed for Louisa May Alcott’s Little Women. It was a creative, healing twist for the beloved classic!
Anne’s House of Dreams by L. M. Montgomery
Recently I read Anne’s House of Dreams, the stunning and romantic ending to the story of Anne Shirley. It describes her marriage to a young doctor, their life by the sea, and the fulfillment of their dreams and career.
Here’s how you can connect with McKenna
Visit McKenna’s website to learn more about her and read some of her work.
And here’s where you can find her on Instagram.
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Thank you, McKenna, for chatting books today!
And thank you for being here, readers.
Catch you next time,
Michelle
