Apple Seeds - Original Short Story by YWA Teacher Matthew Beccaria and an Interview with the Author
Matthew Beccaria is a Fantasy and Science Fiction writer. He is also a History and English teacher at Yellow Wood Academy. Today on the Blog we are sharing an interview with Matt and one of his short stories.
“His penchant for world-building often takes inspiration from his travels teaching abroad. His current writing project is a fantasy adventure trilogy. …In addition to writing, he also teaches English and History to a fantastic group of students.”
Matthew’s short story Apple Seeds recently appeared on the What The Writer’s Wrote podcast which you can listen at the link below.
Apple Seeds Story by Matthew Beccaria - LISTEN HERE
When did you start writing Fantasy and Science Fiction?
I first started writing Fantasy and Science Fiction in 2013 after living abroad in Hangzhou, China, but I wrote and told stories at a much younger age as well. My sister and I would create science fiction/fantasy role-playing characters, build original worlds, and tell their stories.
Who are some of your favorite authors and why?
I've most recently enjoyed the works of Ta-Nehisi Coates' "Between the World and Me," for his poetic prose, Linda Sue Park's "A Long Walk to Water," for its simplistic, but poignant depictions, and James Joyce's "Ulysses" for his mastery of narrative styles. My favorite book, however, is Bram Stoker's Dracula. It's a fantastic read. I highly recommend it.
Are there any speculative fiction or fantasy writers that you recommend to your students?
I'd recommend Octavia E. Butler, Philip K. Dick, Ursula K. Le Guin, and Jonathan Swift for the older students. For the younger students, I'd suggest C.S. Lewis and Tomi Adeyemi.
Can you tell us about how your love of world-building and how your travels have inspired your writing?
Exploration has always been a passion of mine. When I write, I feel the same sense of excitement. The first word on the page is like the first step off the plane. You enter a new, unknown world. If you keep your mind open and approach the experience with a willingness to learn, you'll find wonders awaiting you.
Where did you teach abroad and what did you learn from those experiences?
I taught abroad in Ghana, two different cities in China, and did philanthropy work in Nepal. I was humbled by people's generosity and hospitality. On multiple occasions when I had become injured and/or sick, friends and even strangers helped me get to the hospital. One time in Nepal, my hiking guide took me into his own home because I had come down with a bad fever. I lived with his family for several days until I recovered. When I returned to the states, I had a greater awareness for my own privilege, especially after having seen so much poverty.
Can you tell us a little about the fantasy adventure trilogy that you are writing?
The story centers around a family of Beast Riders who try to impose their beliefs of taming beasts on their only child. When they discover a dangerous creature not seen for several ages, they become separated and wrapped up in events that spiral out of their control. There are also two other character perspectives in the novel, whose arcs intersect with different family members. The story explores themes of identity, family estrangement, and was heavily influenced by my father in law's lost battle with cancer as well as other personal losses.
Do you have any advice for young writers?
Write and read as much as you can. Share your work and be open to criticism. Making mistakes is not a reflection of your intellect, they are stepping stones to success. If you are serious about writing, remember that the industry is extremely subjective, so don't let rejection bother you. If you have a story, keep writing it because only you can tell that story. Grit, self compassion, and a desire to learn will serve you well.