Alumni Book Nook: Elma (Martens) Schemenauer (BA’70)
Elma Schemenauer’s latest book, "Song for Susie Epp", is a novel set in a Saskatchewan farming community in 1970
University of Saskatchewan (USask) graduate Elma (Martens) Schemenauer, who earned a Bachelor of Arts degree in English and psychology from the College of Arts and Science in 1970, has a long history with writing and publishing. Schemenauer is the author of 78 books, including short publications intended for younger readers.
Schemenauer, who grew up in Saskatchewan, worked in publishing in Toronto for many years. She continued her work in writing and editing when she moved to Kamloops, B.C, with her husband, fellow USask graduate Dr. Robert S. Schemenauer (PhD), who earned his Bachelor of Arts degree at the university in 1966. Elma Schemenauer’s latest book is the novel Song for Susie Epp, which was released on June 17, 2024.
What is the focus of your new book, "Song for Susie Epp"?
It’s 1970. Bashful Susie, a pill addict’s daughter, sets out to build a better life for herself. Fellow Mennonite Simon loves her courage—and her. But marrying him comes with a pushy, sanctimonious mother-in-law, Adeline. She manipulates Susie and Simon into leaving British Columbia and moving to her flatland farming community halfway between Saskatoon and Regina.
There, a shocking secret plunges Simon into depression and drinking. As Susie struggles to find a way forward, she gains a new resilience, empathy, and understanding of faith and freedom. She also gains a new appreciation for the Saskatchewan prairie. Its stark beauty calms and inspires her in ways no other landscape can.
What inspired you to write this book?
Adeline Epp is an overbearing, though entertaining, neighbour in my 1940s-era Western Canadian novel Consider the Sunflowers. Since readers like her, I decided to give her a bigger role in a new novel. I developed a story in which she’s the main character’s mother-in-law.
What do you enjoy about writing?
(It’s) the deep quiet joy of doing what I believe I was born to do. I’m an introvert, energized by spending time alone. I also have a strong need to communicate. Writing is an ideal way to combine those two aspects of my personality.
Did your education at USask play a role in researching and/or writing this book?
My courses in psychology broadened my understanding of human nature and the human condition. My English courses introduced me to authors who inspired me. Professor R. D. Chambers was particularly instrumental in encouraging and fostering my own writing abilities.
What are five adjectives that you would use to describe your book?
Poignant, true-to-life, entertaining, hopeful, and Canadian.
What advice do you have for others who may be considering writing their first book?
Read books of the type you’d like to write. What can you learn from them? What would be unique about your book? Don’t feel you need to limit yourself to writing what you know. Follow your enthusiasms and interests, researching as necessary to fill gaps in your knowledge. If you really want to write the book, keep trying—despite doubts and discouragement. Book writing is a marathon, not a sprint.