The authors and panelists of the Bronx Book Festival responded to personal questions about their lives, the writing process, and current literary inspirations. To see their panels and hear more about their books, RSVP for the Bronx Book Festival below.

MELISSA RIVERO

AUTHOR OF THE AFFAIRS OF THE FALCÓNS

Why did you become an author?

That's an interesting question. I think a person can choose to be a writer, but an author is another story. I went the traditional route, and wrote a book that someone else published, and there's a lot that goes into that that I don't necessarily have control over. But I'm a writer because writing is something I love and choose to do. Writing, and writing stories in particular, is the only place where I can be free to explore what interests me and have some semblance of control in my life.

 What are you reading right now?

I have an early look at Lilliam Rivera's Never Look Back, which comes out in the fall, and am really enjoying it!

 Have you ever been to the Bronx? If so, what's a favorite memory you have? If not, what do you know or think about the Bronx?

One of my best friends lives in Country Club, and I love going up there (I'm in Brooklyn) for her barbecues and lasagna.

 What is a quote you live by?

Not a quote, but these days, I'm living by the idea that getting it done is more important than getting it perfect.