Portland, Ore.-based writer Jen Van Meter has an impressive catalog of work, including her creator-owned Oni Press series Hopeless Savages, as well as such titles as The Death-Defying Doctor Mirage, Fantastic Four, Savage Wolverine, The Amazing Spider-Man, Avengers Assemble, Captain Marvel, and Superior Spider-Man. Jen will be appearing on the “All Ages Means All Access” panel at 10 a.m. and the “Do It With Pride” panel at 3 p.m.
What is your idea of perfect happiness?
No deadlines, all the books and knitting.
What is your greatest fear?
Bad things happening to my kids or spouse.
On what occasion do you lie?
To avoid hurt feelings of others.
If you could change one thing about yourself, what would it be?
I’d go back in time and learn more languages.
What do you consider your greatest achievement?
Two amazing kids and Hopeless Savages.
What do you most dislike about yourself?
I’m a terrible time manager.
Which words or phrases do you most overuse?
Like. I drop it, like, everywhere.
What do you most value in your friends?
Big hearts that keep my standards high for my own conduct and kindness.
The quality you most admire in a person?
The courage and strength to be a public activist/advocate.
What supernatural gift would you most like to possess?
To be two places at once.
What is your favorite food?
Little baby carrots with hummus.
What is your favorite color?
Purple.
Who is your favorite fictional character?
Archie Goodwin.
Who is your favorite artist?
Frida Kahlo, Jon J. Muth.
Who is your favorite musician?
David Bowie.
Who are your favorite writers?
William Gibson, Rex Stout, Margaret Atwood, Greg Rucka.
What is your present state of mind?
Frazzled.
What is your motto?
“All happiness depends on courage and work.” – Honoré de Balzac