Interview by Danielle Largesse
We recently had the honor of interviewing a well-published and extraordinary local author, Vivian Bogardus. She is such a wonderful person who lights up the room when she walks in. For those of you who know her and those who haven’t, here is an in-depth interview of who and what she does.
How long have you lived in the Northwest? Has living in this area influenced your writing?
My life began in Sioux City, Iowa in 1941. At 21 years of age I married and gave birth to two children. Later on our family moved to Haines, Alaska for a period of two years. Then we moved to Sandpoint, Idaho where I have remained for, so far, 50 years. When my husband died November 2, 2008, I wrote and published a book that I wrote in his honor that included pictures of us, following our life together.
Years later I married my present husband and we have been very happy together. I am now 83 years old, but I began to write when I was 14 years old. Sandpoint has been very good to me. I have written for many local publications and even won multiple awards, including a poem I wrote titled “Arithmetic” which won a blue ribbon at our Fair here in Sandpoint.
Can you tell me a little bit about your books? What inspired you to write and start your own business?
I currently have 14 books in the Sandpoint and Clark Fork libraries and will soon add my newest book, Passages, which will enjoy a book signing at The Rusty Trunk soon. The date has not yet been appointed, but it will be soon.
What inspired me to create Crystal Press was sheer determination. I considered a vanity publication which is not only expensive, but also usually not very successful. I courageously started my own company and have never been sorry for it. It gave me a platform to exhibit my writing and has been very successful.
What do you want readers to take away from your books?
My wish has always been to cause my readers to smile, to inspire faith and comfort, and to teach from my two text books. I have taught poetry writing and skills to write songs.
What are your hobbies outside of writing?
I have taught poetry writing and skills to write songs. I also love music and can play the guitar, accordion, flute, and the chromatic harmonica.
Any last parting thoughts?
I want to thank the East Bonner County Library for their help. You guys are the greatest!