Hofstra sophomore finds a future in fiction
Elissa Fielding is a sophomore mass media major and recently had her first novel, “When Ryder Stands: The Beginning” published.
Photo Courtesy of Damali Ramirez
Not many can say they are a published author at 19. After two years of writing, drafting and editing, Elissa Fielding, also known as E.M. Fielding – a pen name inspired by J.K. Rowling – published her first novel. “When Ryder Stands: The Beginning” follows protagonist JoLee “Jo” Ryder and her fight to restore peace in her country, Prevost.
“First I cried, and second, I couldn’t believe that basically after two years of writing, finishing up this book [and] copyrighting [that it was] noticed by a publishing company,” said Fielding. “I said to myself, ‘Wow, I actually get to see my work in the physical form for the masses at such a young age,’ and I feel like that’s unheard of.”
Fielding started writing her novel at the age of 16. Frequent rhetoric about the U.S. becoming an Orwellian or Machiavellian state inspired her storyline.
She stated, “I said to myself, ‘Maybe I’ll write a novel depicting such a situation, but taking a broader approach to it,’ because the book’s three parts show tyranny under a prime minister, a president and a monarchy.”
Because her book reflects the controversial social and political climates of today’s society, she stayed determined in remaining neutral. Neutrality is a key principle Fielding carries throughout her works.
Fielding wants her book to familiarize readers with a dystopian environment, enabling them to recognize, acknowledge and call out any person that is abusing their authority or power. Essentially, if you see something, say something. Don’t stay on the sidelines as a spectator.
While the protagonist, Jo, uses her superpowers to tackle the tyrannical government, Fielding believes ordinary people also have the resources and power to call for action.
“Jo is always questioning what’s the right thing to do,” Fielding said. “For us to fight against our modern versions of tyranny, do what you feel is right in your heart in terms of speaking out against what is wrong.”
She is working on her second novel and plans to elaborate more within the coming-of-age genre. The publication date for her second novel hasn’t been determined just yet.
Fielding is currently a sophomore majoring in mass media studies with a concentration in media, policy and law and a minor in Mandarin Chinese. She is on the pre-law track and is a member of the Hofstra University Honors College. While growing up in Nassau County, she took an early interest in the diverse cultures New York offers. Fielding participates in international academic programs and enjoys learning about other cultures overseas. Her hobbies include book hunting, vintage photography, blogging, novel and short-story writing, reading and international culinary experiences.
As for advice she would give to young writers, she said, “If you have written something that you believe people will enjoy or criticize, have it copyrighted, make sure you have your rights to it and publish it. Start small, go to your local publishing company and get your foot in the door.”
Readers can find “When Ryder Stands: The Beginning” on eBay, Amazon, Barnes & Noble and Booktopia.
