Interview with Jen Shoop

You’ve built such a thoughtful world through Magpie and now your book, Small Wonders. What first drew you to writing and how has that evolved over time?

I’ve been writing close to daily since I was six, and it’s always been as natural to me as breathing. I understood — even when I was very young — that writing helped me make sense of the world around me. I owe so much to the craft. It’s taught me to notice, it’s helped me better understand myself, it’s given me a bridge to connect and empathize with other people, it’s attenuated various griefs and grievances, and it’s also been a discipline when I have needed that regular drumbeat to lean on. It is such a forgiving, and giving, practice. I can’t recommend it more — whether it’s private journaling, spot poetry, fiction, non-fiction. Putting pen to paper helps us process the wild phenomena of living.

Your work often centers on noticing the beauty in everyday moments. How did the idea for Small Wonders: A Field Guide to Quiet Joys come to life?

I attribute a lot of the underlying ethos of the book to my favorite poet, Mary Oliver, who wrote: “Instructions for living: pay attention, be astonished, tell about it.” We miss so much if we don’t take the time to pay attention to the profoundly ordinary, to the routine, to the simple, whether that takes the shape of the repetitions of motherhood, the birds and trees in our backyards, or the quiet, almost wafer-thin ways people let us know they love us. I have found that dialing in on life in its finest grain details gives me hope, purpose, meaning.

As a published author, what has surprised you the most about the process of bringing a book into the world?

I have been completely blown away by the many people in my life who have shown up for me in so many ways during this time. I sometimes feel I’m a little bit isolated, writing in my ivory tower — like, does anyone really read this? And then I was so touched and delighted to find so many of my Magpie readers, my neighbors, the parents at my children’s schools, distant family and friends, arriving to celebrate me.  The experience made me feel incredibly loved and held.

Motherhood is such a meaningful thread in your life and writing. How has becoming a mother shaped your perspective, both personally and creatively?

It’s changed everything. It’s like your center of gravity shifts, your points of reference re-home. On a practical note, it’s meant I’ve had to make a lot more of my “free” time — it feels like everything is timeboxed now — and, my God: aren’t we resourceful?! I have learned to write in the margins of my life, in the carpool lane, while the babies were napping. Creatively, it’s expanded my awareness in various ways. I write from a different and more situated context now. Motherhood asks you to empathize profoundly!

You have a distinct point of view when it comes to style. How would you describe your approach to getting dressed?

By mood! I love color and pattern, but I really switch up the tone based on how I’m feeling. Sometimes I’m in a feminine shirtdress and sometimes I’m in utility pants and button-down. I like to have fun with fashion — life’s too short to be precious with it!

You’ve been such a big supporter of Pamela Munson. Do you have a favorite Pamela Munson bag, or one you find yourself reaching for most often? 

I still wear my original Isla Bahia tote, and it always garners attention. I also have two woven clutches that I wear constantly in the summer months. I love that they fit a cell phone but look dainty, almost vintage. The craftsmanship is incredible on all of these pieces. They last!

Right now, what are the small wonders you’re noticing and holding onto most?

We’re waiting for the hummingbirds to return from their winter sojourn — did you know they fly all the way to Mexico in the cold months? We like to put out a hummingbird feeder and watch for them. I find that the easiest way to really live where your feet are — get to know all the birds and trees in your yard by name!

THIS OR THAT?

Early morning writing or late-night inspiration?

Early morning, but I’ll take inspiration wherever and whenever it finds me

Coffee ritual or evening unwind?

Both! I’m a ritual-driven person and like to follow the same steps to start my day and wind it down

Hardcover or Kindle edition?

Hardcover

Writing in silence or with music?

Music — I have specific playlists I put on when I’m in a good writing flow, or am trying to get there

Woven basket or structured tote?

Woven basket!