Kim Danielson
Author Interview - Kim Danielson
Author of Piece by Piece: A Life Remembered through Things Lost
If things are “just things,” why does it hurt so deeply when we lose them?
When a home burglary strips Kim Danielson of heirlooms and other special keepsakes, she loses more than the items themselves. She is also robbed of tangible connections to her history, and physical reminders of loved ones who have died—igniting grief both old and new.
Feeling the weight of disappointment for future generations who cannot inherit a piece of her family’s legacy, Kim creates a new and lasting heirloom, one that can never be stolen. Perfect for anyone who has ever lost anything of meaningful value, this book provides solace and a new perspective on material possessions.
A practical template for preserving a legacy with or without artifacts, Piece by Piece offers a unique take on loss through the lens of stolen objects while inviting readers to tell the stories of their lives by telling the stories of their things.
Author Interview - Kim Danielson
Author I draw inspiration from:
Kelly Corrigan. I'm inspired by all of her books, but especially Glitter and Glue and Tell Me More. She is one of the most honest writers I've ever read and I deeply relate to her struggles and joys as both a mother and a daughter. She writes the kind of books that stay with you for a long, long time.
Author Interview - Kim Danielson | Author I Draw Inspiration From
Favorite place to read a book:
A vintage yellow armchair in a corner of my office. I can tuck myself away and out of view so my three kids can't see me. Haha! I also love to listen to audiobooks on walks.
Book character I’d like to be stuck in an elevator with:
This is such a fun question. Hermione Granger. I'm so claustrophobic and I'd be an anxious mess if stuck in an elevator. She'd so easily get us out with a quick spell and a wave of her wand. I hope, once we made it out, she'd let me take a spin on her broom.
Author Interview - Kim Danielson | Book Character I’d Like to be Stuck in an Elevator With
The moment I knew I wanted to become an author:
I've always loved writing and had the dream of writing a book since I was young. I think it was always one of my go-to answers for the "What do you want to be when you grow up?" question. (The other answer was marine biologist because isn't that every kid's answer?) But I think the moment I knew I wanted to become an author was the moment I had the idea for this book.
Hardback, paperback, ebook or audiobook:
I love my kindle. I love that I can finish a book and start another immediately, that I can hold it with one hand, the large font size, and that I can read in the dark without having to do the very hard thing of reaching over and turning off the light. I do, however, miss turning pages. I often read on my kindle and when I fall in love with a book, I'll buy the hardback for my shelf. I'm also such a sucker for a used book sale and always leave with a pile.
Audiobooks are pretty essential in my life because I spend so much time driving kids and standing on sidelines. Being able to listen to books is such a luxury and I am so grateful! I especially love a good thriller in audio.
The last book I read:
The Road to Tender Hearts by Annie Hartnett. It's so beautifully written with unforgettable characters. I love a good redemption story and this one has all the feels.
Author Interview - Kim Danielson | The Last Book I Read
Pen & paper or computer:
Primarly computer. But I have a thousand Post-It notes all over my desk at all times. I generally type the first draft and then my revision process is a back and forth between computer and paper. Once I have a draft in shape enough to do a read through, I'll print it out and read aloud and edit with pen on the paper. And then do another (or a thousand) rounds of the same thing. Oh revision. Simultaneously a fun ride and a total beat down.
Book character I think I’d be best friends with:
Bridget Jones from Bridget Jones's Diary by Helen Fielding. She's hopeful, unapologetically herself, and endearingly chaotic. I love people who aren't afraid to laugh at themselves. We'd have so much fun together.
Author Interview - Kim Danielson | Book Character I’d be Best Friends With
If I weren’t an author, I’d be a:
In 2019, I founded a nonprofit called *A Legacy for Nancy,* in honor of my mom, whom we lost to ovarian cancer in 2016. We support Colorado teachers impacted by cancer. I could always spend more time on this work. Not only does it keep me close to my mom, but I love any "beauty for ashes" trade. Because of the generosity of others, we've been able to help so many educators who are experiencing the fallout of this dreadful disease.
Favorite decade in fashion history:
I am slightly obsessed with late 18th century fashion, especially the Gilded Age in NYC. The elaborate and ornate dresses, bustles, hats, and jewelry--all the drama! I just love the formality and preparation infused into a Tuesday night dinner at home. But not the corsets. Ouch.
Place I’d most like to travel:
I have such a heart for Africa. Every time I've had the chance to travel there, I'm reminded of how very big this world is. I'd love to do a gorilla trek in Uganda. I think that would be an unforgettable, life-changing experience.
My signature drink:
I wish I was cool enough to have a signature drink!
Favorite artist:
Frida Kahlo's paintings are so uniquely beautiful, the kind that stay with you forever. I had the opportunity to visit her home in Mexico City, which is a work of art itself. Her point of view is both vibrant and vulnerable, both surreal and real.
I also think Jon Batiste is such an incredible musician and person--an absolute genius who is changing both music and the world.
Number one on my bucket list:
My friends and I have talked about taking a tap dancing class. Even just the idea of it delights me. I think we will be terrible and laugh the whole time but it will be a blast.
Anything else you'd like to add:
I'm just so grateful for this--thank you!
Find more from the author:
Instagram: @kimdanielsonwrites
About Kim Danielson:
Kim Danielson
Kim Danielson practiced law on both ends of the spectrum, first as a public defender and then as a corporate attorney. In 2019, she founded a nonprofit organization to support teachers impacted by cancer. In all her work, she has witnessed countless
examples of transformation stemming from loss. This restoration is a major undercurrent in her writing and life. She lives in Denver with her husband and three sons. The toilet seats are never down.
