Interview with the Author

Q: Wow, Eliza you have great style! Do you really only shop at bargain stores, like your book suggests?

A: Oh thank you, you’re so sweet. I really do only shop for bargains. I cannot afford anything else, believe it or not. I know I look fantastic but that’s because I have a great eye for bargains and I know where to shop. With my book you’ll be able to do just this.

Q: I heard that you used Yi Fu Tuan’s, Space and Place as inspiration. How did you do this?

A: Well Yi Fu Tuan and I are great friends and I truly admire him. I used his ideas of how we create a place from a space. A place is a pause, it answers certain social needs, and is a repository of memories and dreams . I wanted to show readers how to turn a space, like a clothing store, into their own place. He says, “An object or place achieves concrete reality when our experience of it is total, that is, through all the sense as well as with the active and reflective mind. “ I wanted to show my readers how to achieve this experience and create ant intimate place.

Q: Where did you get the inspiration to create this book?

A: I always shop for inexpensive clothing and I felt that now was a great time for other people to learn this art. Also I was shopping with my sister, searching for bargains of course, and she was so overwhelmed and stressed. That’s when I realized this is a major problem that must be addressed. People should not feel stressed while shopping. Shopping is a leisurely activity; therefore people should feel at ease and at home, just like I do.

Q: What is your favorite store that you discussed in your book?

A: That’s such a tough question! If I had to choose I would say Buffalo Exchange. I find really great things for me every time I shop there. However, I really love all the shops.

Q: Did you enjoy writing this book?

A: Of course I did. I love shopping and if I can help people love it as much as me, I’m happy.

Q: Will you continue writing books like this one?

A: Although I thoroughly enjoyed writing this, I think I want to move onto something different. Perhaps a book of creative short stories. I’m still unsure. I do know, however, that I will always continue my search for great thrift stores.