Analogies, Energies & Celestial Bodies was the winner in the Inspirational/Spiritual category of the 2021 IndieReader Discovery Awards, where undiscovered talent meets people with the power to make a difference.
Following find an interview with author Shannon Hugman.
What is the name of the book, and when was it published?
Analogies, Energies & Celestial Bodies was published March 17th, 2020.
What’s the book’s first line?
“For starters, let’s get clear on why we’re here: the point is not to predict the future, nor should we use these themes as an excuse to label ourselves or other people.”
What’s the book about? Give us the “pitch”.
Analogies, Energies & Celestial Bodies is not your average astrology book; it’s a fun yet deep read for beginners and experts. By nurturing an intuitive understanding of the world above us, we become artists of ourselves—we learn to make masterpieces of who we are and then dedicate our energy to the collective.
What inspired you to write the book? A particular person? An event?
I’ve worked as a professional astrologer for the past decade and have many people ask me for book recommendations. I have never found a book that captures my unique take on this ancient art, so I decided to write one myself.
What’s the most distinctive thing about the main character? Who-real or fictional-would you say the character reminds you of?
This book is all about getting to know yourself, so in a sense, the main character is the reader. What’s cool about the book is that each person will find their unique reflection from the symbols and astrological themes shared in its pages. Even though this is a pretty unconventional answer, I would say the most distinctive thing about the main character will depend on what the reader takes away and learns about themselves.
What’s the main reason someone should read this book?
Astrology is becoming mainstream; whether people like it or not, we are bound to run up against a meme proclaiming Mercury is in retrograde or that there’s a big super moon coming. But we forget, most of the astrological content out there is the writer’s interpretation. This book is like an astrology dictionary or reference guide that readers can use as a trusted source to fact-check the ample amounts of info out there on the internet. It’s a tool to support people in deciding for themselves and creating their own interpretations. I have met many people who read something about astrology, feel confused, excited, or want to know more. This book will be your companion, helping you learn more and making the journey fun and entertaining.
When did you first decide to become an author?
I first decided I wanted to be an author when I was about ten years old. When the new Harry Potter books would come out, I always dreamed that I would release a book of my own one day.
What do you do for work when you’re not writing?
I am a professional astrologer who offers consultations, courses, and events helping people to cultivate self-awareness by exploring the archetypes of the zodiac, celestial bodies, and the sky above us. I am also a Stand Up Paddle Board coach and meditation guide.
What’s the best and the hardest part of being an indie?
The best part of being an indie is that I have total control over how I share, market, and sell my book. It feels like there is infinite potential and anything is possible. Plus, I love not having to answer to anyone. The hardest part was believing that it was possible and feeling like I was going at it all alone. That all changed when I discovered the Self Publishing Agency. I feel so lucky to have connected with an incredible publishing support team who helped make this dream come true.
Would you go traditional if a publisher came calling? If so, why?
I probably would give it a spin because I love to try new things and take advantage of opportunities. Since I have only published as an indie, I would like to experience the other side.
Is there something in particular that motivates you (fame? fortune?)
My motivation is to create a world where we each know ourselves because when we know better, we can do better. The wisdom contained in my book has changed my life. I have seen the vast benefits of following celestial cycles and exploring my personal lessons. I wrote this book in hopes that it will help others experience the same.
Which writer, living or dead, do you most admire?
I most admire Anais Nin, and I even quote her in the Pisces section of Analogies, Energies & Celestial Bodies.
“I must be a mermaid, I have no fear of depth and a great fear of shallow living.” -Anais Nin.
She speaks straight to my soul.