Wildoak is C.C. Harrington’s debut novel. She notes in her blog that she spent a long time writing this novel, and she says that she is mindful that it is “the most extraordinary gift—to know that this work has the potential to touch readers of all ages” (“Putting a Book Into the World.” C.C. Harrington). Harrington believes that words can have a real impact on others, so they should be respectful, gentle, and come from a position of humility. She feels that writers must hone their craft toward more than just reader engagement—good writers also have a responsibility to tell the truth about the world, even in fiction. Writers, according to Harrington, should be curious, determined, and brave. They should listen to their own individual hearts and speak with their own unique voices. This allows them to share a part of themselves with their readers and share authentic truths about the world.

Harrington loves to spend time outdoors; just like Maggie in Wildoak, Harrington, too, enjoys walking in the forest. Harrington’s attachment to the natural world inspired her to advocate for conservation though her writing. Sometimes, she worries “that being a storyteller in a time of global crisis isn’t of much use” (“