Meet Kylee Clark | Writer & Communications Specialist
We had the good fortune of connecting with Kylee Clark and we’ve shared our conversation below.
Hi Kylee, why did you pursue a creative career?
I pursued an artistic and creative career because storytelling has always been an integral part of who I am. As a child, I was rarely without a book, and reading became my gateway to exploring the world and understanding different perspectives. Throughout school, I gravitated toward creative writing, thanks to the encouragement of teachers who recognized and nurtured my passion. It was during these formative years that I discovered how much I loved crafting stories of my own.
That said, I am also a practical person. I grew up in a family that valued financial stability and resourcefulness, which taught me the importance of balancing passion with pragmatism. Knowing the challenges of breaking into the creative industry, I chose to pursue a bachelor’s degree in Mass Communication at ASU, which allowed me to develop versatile skills in communication, storytelling, and media. I graduated in May of 2024 with the goal of working in the publishing world.
Despite facing challenges finding a role in publishing, I refused to let go of my creative aspirations. While waiting, I decided to turn my focus inward and tackle a lifelong dream: writing a book. Completing that project was not only a personal milestone but also a testament to my resilience and determination to pursue what I love.
This journey has reinforced my belief in the power of storytelling and creative expression, and I’m excited to continue building a career that allows me to share stories and ideas that resonate with others. While I continue my hunt for a role in the publishing world, I am dedicated to writing novels and pursuing my passion for storytelling in the meantime.
Alright, so let’s move onto what keeps you busy professionally?
I’m incredibly excited about the upcoming publication of my debut novel, Better Left Between Us, releasing on February 14, 2025. This story is especially meaningful to me because it’s a unique exploration of friendship, love, and the courage it takes to embrace change and grow. It’s been an amazing journey bringing this story to life, and I hope it resonates with readers as deeply as it does with me.
Getting to this point hasn’t been easy. I’ve faced setbacks and challenges, particularly as I work toward breaking into the publishing industry. Despite the obstacles, I’m determined to carve out my place in this world—not just as a writer but as someone who can eventually help others like myself who are just starting out.
The truth is, I’m not sure I’ve “overcome” the challenges, but I’ve learned the value of perseverance. I’ve realized that moving forward, even when it feels difficult or uncertain, is its own form of progress. I keep reminding myself that every step, no matter how small, brings me closer to where I want to be.
If there’s one thing I’d want the world to know about me, it’s that storytelling is at the heart of everything I do. Whether it’s through my own novels or by contributing to the publishing industry, I’m passionate about the power of stories to connect, inspire, and transform. I’m proud of my journey so far and excited to see what lies ahead.
Let’s say your best friend was visiting the area and you wanted to show them the best time ever. Where would you take them? Give us a little itinerary – say it was a week long trip, where would you eat, drink, visit, hang out, etc.
If my best friend were visiting, I’d want to show them the best of the Mesa area and beyond, starting with my favorite local coffee shop, Bean Chain. The owners are such wonderful people, and it’s a cozy spot to catch up. We’d spend some time exploring the Arizona Museum of Natural History and browsing through used bookstores like Bookman’s or local record shops such as Zia Records. For food, I’d take them to Tacos Chiwas for incredible tacos and their delicious carrot cake. Another must-visit spot is The Sicilian Butcher, which I’ve heard amazing things about and would love to experience with them.
I’d also plan a day outdoors at the Desert Botanical Garden to soak in the natural beauty of the desert. A visit to the OdySea Aquarium would be another highlight, where we could marvel at the marine life and interactive exhibits. For some cultural experiences, we could visit the Mesa Arts Center or check out a live performance. Lastly, I’d make sure we enjoyed great food and drinks at spots like Postino WineCafe to wind down and enjoy the evenings. It would be a week full of memorable moments, blending my favorite places with new adventures for both of us.
Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
I absolutely wouldn’t be where I am today without the guidance and support of several incredible people and influences in my life. First and foremost, I want to give a huge shoutout to the teachers who recognized my potential and encouraged me to explore my creative side. Their belief in me planted the seeds of my love for storytelling.
My family also deserves so much credit—my mom, grandparents, and sister have always been my biggest cheerleaders. Their unwavering support and encouragement, even when I took risks by pursuing my creative passions, mean the world to me.
I also want to highlight Bloom Books, a publishing house that has introduced me to some of my all-time favorite novels. Their stories inspire me as a writer and remind me why I love the world of books and storytelling so much.
These people and influences have all played a role in shaping the person I am today, and I’m incredibly grateful for each of them.
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/kyleeclarkauthor/
Other: Author email: author.kyleeclark@gmail.com
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