Interview with author Dr. Wendy M. Schauer

Q1. Hello, can you please introduce yourself? Readers would love to know more about you.

A1. Hello there! I’m Dr. Wendy Schauer, D.C.

I’ve been a Doctor of Chiropractic for over 30 years. In those 30 years I’ve seen a lot of ups and downs
in the healthcare industry.

To be better able to help my patients on their journey of health, healing, and wellness, I’ve dived deep into becoming a kettlebell trainer and a TRX instructor, and I even became a RockTape practitioner over the past decade.

I’m always trying to add more tools to my toolbox to not only help my patients but also add more learning, education, and skills for myself.

When I’m not at my clinic, Community Chiropractic, P.S., I’m probably doing research on conditions like Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome or possibly penning
another book.

In fact, “The 7 Steps to Amazing Health!”, is my attempt to break down health, fitness, and nutrition into simple, relatable terms for everyone.

If you haven’t guessed it yet, I’m absolutely passionate about empowering each individual to achieve their wellness goals.

It’s a thrilling journey, and I’m excited to have you join me!

Q2. What were the key challenges you faced while writing your book “The 7 Steps to Amazing Health!”?

A2. One of the most significant challenges I encountered was simply finding the time. Balancing my responsibilities as a chiropractor with my passion for writing often felt like a tightrope walk. Another hurdle was organizing my myriad of thoughts. I’d be deep into discussing hydration in the water chapter, and suddenly, my mind would leap to insights about sleep!

I found myself surrounded by scattered pieces of paper, as I’m someone who resonates with the tactile process of writing by hand rather than typing.

It’s the kinesthetic side of me coming through! 🙂

Q3. What books or authors have most influenced your own writing?

A3. While many might point to specific authors or texts as their muses, my inspiration was quite unique.

I’m an avid reader and have immersed myself in countless books over the years. However, the driving force behind my writing was my personal quest for healing. I was grappling with a condition that seemed to baffle many.

Through my journey, I unearthed information that was both elemental and revelatory. The insights were so groundbreaking, yet so foundational, that I felt a deep responsibility to share them with others. My book, in essence, is a reflection of that personal pilgrimage towards wellness.

Q4. What’s your favourite spot to visit in your own country? And what makes it so special to you?

A4. My top spot in the U.S. has to be Mount Rainier in Washington state. It’s conveniently close, just about two hours from my home. I’m a big fan of snowshoeing, and Mount Rainier has plenty of groomed trails that are perfect for it. Walking through the woods with snow all around is genuinely refreshing. There’s something about being in nature, especially in a place as scenic as Mount Rainier, that just resets my mood.

It’s peaceful, grounding, and always leaves me feeling better than when I arrived.

Q5. What inspired you to write the book ‘The 7 Steps to Amazing Health!’?

A5. The genesis of “The 7 Steps to Amazing Health!” was born out of both personal adversity and professional observations. I experienced a debilitating health issue that manifested in severe hives across my body, at times
so severe that my eyes would swell shut or my lips would triple in size. Despite consulting numerous medical professionals, no one could pinpoint the root of my ailment. This drove me to embark on my own research journey.

Simultaneously, in my chiropractic practice, I found myself discussing the same foundational health principles with my patients daily. I realized that these recurring conversations were essential, time-tested truths about health that everyone should know. So, I
thought, why not encapsulate these lessons and my personal journey into a resource that can be easily accessed and revisited?
That’s how “The 7 Steps to Amazing Health!” came to be, a guide born out of a deep personal and professional need to share the wisdom of holistic health.

Q6. How long did it take you to write your book ‘The 7 Steps to Amazing Health!’?

A6. Crafting “The 7 Steps to Amazing Health!” took me about six months. Balancing my responsibilities as a chiropractor with writing didn’t always provide the luxury of extended, uninterrupted writing sessions. Moreover, interweaving research into the process extended the timeline slightly. Had it been purely about writing, I suspect it would have been completed much sooner. However, the real challenge arose in the editing phase and the hunt for the right person to format it. Every step was a labor of love and commitment to the message I was eager to share.

Q7. On what platforms can readers buy your books?

A7. Great question! Right now, readers can grab ‘The 7 Steps to Amazing Health!’ in both paperback and Kindle formats directly on Amazon.

But there’s more exciting news: a hardcover edition is just around the corner and should be hitting Amazon’s shelves in a few short weeks!

For those who prefer a digital touch, a PDF version is up for grabs on my clinic’s website at http://www.CommunityChiropracticPS.com. And keep an eye out — I’m brewing something special with a dedicated website solely for the book, coming soon at http://www.7StepsToAmazingHealth.com.Be sure to bookmark it!

Q8. Tell us about the process of coming up with the book cover and the title ‘The 7 Steps to Amazing Health!’?

A8. Ah, the journey of settling on that title and the book cover was quite a memorable one! When I began writing the book, I had a clear vision: I wanted to distill health into manageable steps that everyone could understand and implement. As I wrote, it became
evident that there were seven pivotal elements that acted as cornerstones for achieving optimal health.

That’s how the title, ‘The 7 Steps to Amazing Health!’ was born. It was concise, indicative, and straightforward – I wanted readers to know instantly that the book was both actionable and transformative.

As for the cover, I worked closely with a talented graphic designer. We went through numerous iterations. I wanted the cover to be eye-catching but also to evoke a sense of wellness and positivity. We finally landed on the current design, which I think beautifully encapsulates the essence of the book. It’s simple, clean, and to the point, just like the steps inside!

The process was collaborative and a lot of fun, but it also made me appreciate the importance of every little detail that goes into publishing a book. And let me tell you, choosing a cover is like choosing an outfit for a first date—you want to put your best foot forward!

It’s been heartening to hear feedback from readers who felt drawn to the book because of its cover and title. After all, they say you shouldn’t judge a book by its cover, but let’s be honest, we all do sometimes!

Q9. When writing a book how do you keep things fresh, for both your readers and also yourself?

A9. For me, maintaining freshness throughout the book was quite organic because of my genuine passion for research.

At times, this very enthusiasm made the writing process a tad longer, as I’d find myself delving deep into intriguing research tangents. It wasn’t about achieving perfection in the information but more about indulging in my love for gaining knowledge.

However, I was conscious about not overloading the readers with jargon or overly detailed research. My aim was to keep the content light, yet informative, ensuring it resonated with readers.

Q10. What is the most valuable piece of advice you’ve been given about writing?

A10. The most profound piece of advice I’ve ever received about writing is, “Write from the heart, and the right people will resonate with it.” That resonated with me deeply because when you’re genuine in your intentions and you genuinely want to help and inform people, it transcends the words on the page. It becomes a bridge between the reader and the writer, forming a deep connection.

I genuinely believe in the transformative power of “The 7 Steps to Amazing Health!”. Not just because I wrote it, but because of the lives I’ve seen it touch. Don’t just take my word for it though:

Stefani Marchesi, Actress / Model said about my book, “I was extremely grateful to receive a copy of ‘The Seven Steps to Amazing Health’ before I began training for an upcoming film. The results exceeded my expectations. I would
recommend this book to anyone.”

Similarly, the talented Adrienne Janic, Actress/Host/Model shared her insights, saying, “Not only is, ‘The 7 Steps To Amazing Health’ motivating, but I realized that simple changes in the way we live can dramatically change our health and happiness for the better. This book is a must-read. I was hooked from page one. I wish it was around years ago!”

I’ve poured my heart, soul, and a lifetime of research and practice into this book. It’s not just about guiding readers to better health but showing them the profound difference that these seven steps can make in their lives. If you’re on the fence about picking it up, let the experiences of others guide you. I hope to inspire and accompany you on your journey to unparalleled wellness.

Thank you for taking the time to interview me today and for allowing me to share my book and work with your readers.

Buy The 7 Steps to Amazing Health on Amazon

The Ovenlight Saga

𝗕𝗼𝗼𝗸: The Ovenlight Saga 📚
𝗔𝘂𝘁𝗵𝗼𝗿: Stefanie Mellor ✍️
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🚀 𝐑𝐞𝐯𝐢𝐞𝐰:
The Ovenlight Saga written by the author Stefanie Mellor is the first installment in the Baking Dough book series. The story starts with Ella in the cold, damp town of Ports, in the state of Oregon. Ella started high school. There, she saw the Collins family for the first time. Collins moved to Ports from Santa Clara a few years ago.

Carlo is the father of the Collins siblings. He is a veterinarian and has earned lots of respect and admiration from others. Ella loves eating pizzas. She could eat 6 or 7 pieces of pizza easily. She keeps a jar of jalapenos with her in her backpack and she makes herself a jalapenos pizza.

When Ella was at the BargainBin with a pizza cafe in it, she realized someone’s eyes on her. It was Tedwin’s. He sensed the different smell and found it to be of pizza. Ella caught him staring at her. Ella is the only girl whose thoughts Tedwin couldn’t read. Read this story to know if Tedwin and Ella could become friends or more than that.

The writing style of the author is nice. The cover photo of the book is eye-catching. This book has added funny twists and turns in the twilight story. The language used in the book is lucid and I had a great time reading this book.

The fans of the Twilight movie series should definitely get their hands on this book.

  • 𝗠𝘆 𝗥𝗮𝘁𝗶𝗻𝗴: 5/5

★ Book Is Available On Amazon

Interview with author Winsor Smith

Q1. Hello, can you please introduce yourself? Readers would love to know more about you.

My name is Winsor Smith, I’m a union construction worker and have lived in New England my entire life. I’m a true New Englander, I love our teams, I take pride in my work, and have plenty of sarcasm to go around.

Q2. What were the key challenges you faced while writing your book “Joe 6 Pack Straightens Out”?

The biggest challenges were allowing myself to be completely transparent and vulnerable. My goal was to be relatable and approachable without sounding condescending or as if I had all the answers.

Q3. What books or authors have most influenced your own writing?

For me the most relatable people were comedians and musicians, not so much true authors. A lot of what I’ve read are memoirs or accounts from celebrities, like Dave Grohl and Tom Segura.

Q4. What’s your favourite spot to visit in your own country? And what makes it so special to you?

I love the southwest part of the country, Utah and Colorado in particular. I love the diversity of the landscape out there. You can be in snowcapped mountains then drive 6 hours and be surrounded by buttes in the barren red desert.

Q5. What inspired you to write the book ‘Joe 6 Pack Straightens Out’?

What inspired me to write the book were the amount of conversations I had with people who were in a similar position as I was in – habitually drinking and in need to regain control of their vices. I hadn’t realized how many people found themselves stuck in a rut like I was without any advice.

Q6. How long did it take you to write your book ‘Joe 6 Pack Straightens Out’?

Writing my notes took me a month – the duration of the sober challenge, but it took me probably 3 months to put something together I was willing to present to someone.

Q7. On what platforms can readers buy your books?

Readers can buy my paperback and E book on Amazon.

Q8. Tell us about the process of coming up with the book cover and the title ‘Joe 6 Pack Straightens Out’?

I wanted the cover to represent my blue collar construction background, hence the welder. I wanted some reference to drinking, so I thought the neon lights was a clever way to do that.

Q9. When writing a book how do you keep things fresh, for both your readers and also yourself?

This is my first book, so I hope it’s fresh! I did want the book to have an arc to the journey, as well as a positive outlook.

Q10. What is the most valuable piece of advice you’ve been given about writing?

An author friend of mine encouraged me to write using my voice, or in other words just be myself. If I was to try and come off as an expert or something I’m not, the message will be lost.

Buy Joe 6 Pack Straightens Out on Amazon

An Everlasting Truth

𝗕𝗼𝗼𝗸: An Everlasting Truth: My Spiritual Journey 📚
𝗔𝘂𝘁𝗵𝗼𝗿: Jeanette P Hernandez ✍️
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🚀 𝐑𝐞𝐯𝐢𝐞𝐰:
“An Everlasting Truth: My Spiritual Journey” written by the author Jeanette P Hernandez is a must read. In this book, the author has shared about the different stories from her life and how her Spiritual Awakening happened. Those who don’t believe in God should definitely get their hands on this book. Your faith in him may increase. 

The author has shared about her struggles that started into childhood and continued even after adulthood. Then one day, the author’s life changed for the better. The day she was baptized changed her life. When the author was submerged in the baptismal font something incredible happened. Jeanette felt as if she was reborn. 

The writing style of the author is amazing. It’s a short read. The author has expressed her Spiritual journey in a few pages and I am glad to read it. The title of the book is suitable and I had a great time reading this book. I am a believer in God and this book strengthened my faith. I strongly recommend it to my fellow readers.

  • 𝗠𝘆 𝗥𝗮𝘁𝗶𝗻𝗴: 5/5

★ Book Is Available On Amazon

When Fred the Snake and Friends Explore USA East

𝗕𝗼𝗼𝗸: When Fred the Snake and Friends Explore USA East 📚
𝗔𝘂𝘁𝗵𝗼𝗿: Peter B. Cotton ✍️
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🚀 𝐑𝐞𝐯𝐢𝐞𝐰:
“When Fred the Snake and Friends Explore USA East” is an interesting Children’s book written by the author Peter B Cotton and illustrated by Bonnie Lemaire. The main character of the story is Fred the friendly snake. Fred invited Jungle Jim and he brought lots of friends with him.

Jim has an open plane and all climbed aboard it. They explored different states of the United States and had a great time. I loved it when they reached the majestic Niagara Falls and also could see Canada from there.

Kids would get to know about the famous United States places to explore. They would also learn important historical facts. This is a lovely Children’s Book with beautiful illustrations. The author-illustrator duo has done a fabulous job in this book. Parents should definitely add this book to their children’s bookshelf.

  • 𝗠𝘆 𝗥𝗮𝘁𝗶𝗻𝗴: 5/5

★ Book Is Available On Amazon

Interview with author Theresa Gage

Q1. Hello, can you please introduce yourself? Readers would love to know more about you.

I am Theresa Gage and I live in Washington state with my spouse and our two dogs, Joey, (a Chihuahua) and Luke, (a min-pin). When I’m not engrossed in my writing or reading a good book, you’ll find me working in my flower and vegetable garden. I’ve written articles for Working Writer and ezine.com and had short stories published through Art Ascent Magazine and Rumpus Magazine. I recently retired as a nurse.

Q2. What were the key challenges you faced while writing your book “Tangle With Fire”?

My key challenge was to slow down and think of scenes instead of chapters. I knew what I wanted to write, but trying to keep the pacing just right and continue with the storyline was the challenge. I took some classes from the writing coach and podcast host, Kevin T. Johns, which really helped me.

Q3. What books or authors have most influenced your own writing?

Terry Brooks influenced my fantasy writing with his Shannara series, but there are newer authors that I love their writing style too, such as Emma Hamm, Stephanie Mayer, A. G. Howard, and Brigid Kemmerer. A. G. Howard’s different world of Alice in Wonderland is amazing.

Q4. What’s your favourite spot to visit in your own country? And what makes it so special to you?

I like to travel, but nothing compares to Mt. Rainer’s beauty in Washington state.

Q5. What inspired you to write the book ‘Tangle With Fire’?

What inspired me to write the book “Tangle with Fire” was the disrespect my younger daughter showed to her grandmothers when they lived with us. They both had Alzheimer’s. Everyone deserves respect. Then I thought back to my childhood and how I was always the responsible one, while my brother lied and played pranks. Ideas started flowing and I came up with this story.

Q6. How long did it take you to write your book ‘Tangle With Fire’?

It took me two years to get it the way I wanted it. I had joined a critique group which helped to see my mistakes and what worked and what didn’t.

Q7. On what platforms can readers buy your books?

My book is available in softcover print and eBook by Book baby. Soon it is coming out on audible as well. https://store.bookbaby.com/book/tangle-with-fire. Amazon and Barnes & Nobles have it on eBook. In print come October.

Q8. Tell us about the process of coming up with the book cover and the title ‘Tangle With Fire’?

I wanted something with fire for the book cover and the designer did a great job. My main character, Aidan, has magical abilities using fire.

Q9. When writing a book how do you keep things fresh, for both your readers and also yourself?

I try to make things exciting or intriguing.

Q10. What is the most valuable piece of advice you’ve been given about writing?

One of the most valuable lessons I learned was to see things through my character’s eyes. How would they feel if something happened. Everyone is different and sees and feels things differently from others.

Buy Tangle With Fire on Amazon

Caregiver’s Guide to Dementia

𝗕𝗼𝗼𝗸: Caregiver’s Guide to Dementia: Discovering Moments of Joy in the Unpredictable Journey 📚
𝗔𝘂𝘁𝗵𝗼𝗿: Stella Stone ✍️
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🚀 𝐑𝐞𝐯𝐢𝐞𝐰:
“Caregiver’s Guide to Dementia: Discovering Moments of Joy in the Unpredictable Journey” written by the author Stella Stone is a must read. Through this book, the readers make us aware about Dementia. If we are aware of the basics of Dementia, we can care better for our loved ones who have it.

Most forms of dementia are irreversible and progressive. In rare cases, dementia is temporary but that requires prompt and accurate diagnosis to address the root cause. The one who is diagnosed with dementia may experience different emotions like fear, uncertainty, anxiety, etc. Caregivers need to have patience and be understanding and supportive.

In order to provide the best care to loved ones, it’s important for the caregiver to understand dementia. This is an insightful read from which I learned a lot about dementia. The author has suggested various health trackers apps which could help you to keep a track of your loved ones’ health.

This is a well written book. I am thankful to the author for sharing the knowledge about dementia with the caregivers. The title of the book is suitable. The language used in the book is lucid and I was able to follow it easily. Through your love, patience and care you can be a great caregiver. I strongly recommend this book to everyone.

  • 𝗠𝘆 𝗥𝗮𝘁𝗶𝗻𝗴: 5/5

★ Book Is Available On Amazon

Jasmine Tea

𝗕𝗼𝗼𝗸: Jasmine Tea 📚
𝗔𝘂𝘁𝗵𝗼𝗿: Sara Badawieh ✍️
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🚀 𝐑𝐞𝐯𝐢𝐞𝐰:
Jasmine Tea written by the author Sara Badawieh is an intriguing read. The main characters of the story are Kenda and Ali. Before marriage, Kenda’s life wasn’t good. After her dad expired, Kenda’s mom decided to get remarried when Kenda was fourteen years old. Kenda didn’t like her step-dad Amo Jawad. His step-dad asked her to keep her room door open at night for him.

If Kenda agrees to it, he will pay his University fees and would also provide food for her. Kenda’s mom was aware of it but she stayed silent. The only way to escape from her step-dad was to get married. When her mother talked about getting married to Ali, Kenda agreed to meet him. Ali told her that he is a widower.

After getting married to Ali, Kenda was handed a baby to take care of it. Kenda was shocked to know that it’s Ali’s baby. Will Kenda accept Ali’s family and her new life? What does Ali want from Kenda?

The story is gripping. The twists and turns in the story made it more interesting. The cover photo of the book is nice. The language used in the book is lucid and I was able to follow the story easily. The characters are written well by the author. Go ahead with this book without any second thoughts.

  • 𝗠𝘆 𝗥𝗮𝘁𝗶𝗻𝗴: 5/5

★ Book Is Available On Amazon

The 7 Steps to Amazing Health

𝗕𝗼𝗼𝗸: The 7 Steps to Amazing Health 📚
𝗔𝘂𝘁𝗵𝗼𝗿: Dr. Wendy M. Schauer ✍️
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🚀 𝐑𝐞𝐯𝐢𝐞𝐰:
“The 7 Steps to Amazing Health!” written by the author Wendy Schauer is a must read book. It is an instruction manual on how to live a life of health, happiness and vitality.

To be healthy, vibrant and alive, we need to make the commitment to do the necessary work. Without hard work, there is no way. By reading this book, readers would get to know how the diseases that many people have are because of their lifestyle choices. We can cure them by making lifestyle changes.

The author has mentioned the importance of water, nutrition, sleep and rest, exercise, positive mental attitude, spinal hygiene, etc. If we make necessary changes in these areas, our health can become better.

I am a fitness enthusiast and these days I am working on my fitness and health goals. I have got my hands on this book at the right time. I have gained valuable insights from this book that would help me in living a healthy life. Thanks to the author for the valuable knowledge that she has shared in this book. If you want to live a healthy life, go ahead with this book without any second thoughts.

  • 𝗠𝘆 𝗥𝗮𝘁𝗶𝗻𝗴: 5/5

★ Book Is Available On Amazon

Interview with author Michael A. Cimino

Q1. Hello, can you please introduce yourself? Readers would love to know more about you.

My name is Michael Cimino. No… not the famous movie director of The Deer Hunter fame, or the handsome young actor from Las Vegas (laughs).

I’m an ex-radio announcer and music journalist from New Jersey who happens to earn a living as a sommelier in upstate New York’s wine country. Oh, and by the way, I am the author of three books; Music Head – A Memoir of Purpose, Badfinger and Beyond – The Biography of Joey Molland, and A Beginner’s Guide to Wine.

Q2. What were the key challenges you faced while writing your book “Music Head – A Memoir of Purpose”?

Probably, the biggest challenge was going through the hundreds of hours of tape recordings that much of the book is based upon. When I was working in the music business I had the opportunity to interview, many famous musicians and I captured all of the interviews on cassette tapes.

Transferring many of the old tapes to the digital format took a lot of time, and then, of course, picking which interviews and what parts of the interviews to use in the book was a challenge as I wanted them to have a cohesive flow in order to not only tell the musicians’ stories but the story of music history as well.

Several of the stars I spoke with were instrumental in the founding of Rock and Roll, and are still stars today; like Roger McGuinn, who founded the very influential group The Byrds in the 1960’s, Gregg Rolie from Journey and Santana, and Pete Best, who was The Beatles’ original drummer.

Q3. What books or authors have most influenced your own writing?

The books that influenced me throughout my life are actually listed in the bibliography of Music Head, but it is hard to tell if any of those authors actually influenced my personal writing style.

I think, the person who did influence the way I write was one of the people who was invited to teach the class on Australian wines when I was studying at the Sommelier Society of America. After his presentation I asked him a very simple question about Australia’s climate and he went off on this tangent for, like, twenty minutes and by the time he was done I was so confused that I don’t think he actually answered my question.

So from that time on I told myself that whenever I was communicating, whether it was educating someone about a wine, or writing about a musician, I would never ‘speak over people’s heads.’

I think reading and writing should be fun and educational, not some academic chore that one needs to complete. I also think that song lyrics have influenced me just as much as poetry and prose.

Q4. What’s your favourite spot to visit in your own country? And what makes it so special to you?

Most definitely, the Finger Lakes wine district in upstate New York. Honestly, I didn’t even know the Finger Lakes existed until I started studying wine. When I first visited the area it was to learn about winemaking and the growing grapes. Then I fell in love with the area and New York wines.

Whenever I was in the Finger Lakes I felt a part of something much bigger. A community of people working within an industry that brings us all together. Wine can do that. So can music. It feels a bit different now that I live here full time, but it is still my favorite place.

Q5. What inspired you to write the book ‘Music Head – A Memoir of Purpose’?

They say, and I don’t know who ‘they’ are, but it has been said that everyone should leave something behind for the rest of the world to remember them by after they’re gone. Some people have children who carry their lineage forward, some create art. I wrote a book that contains music history but it also contains my legacy. I touched upon this subject in the early part of the book.

Q6. How long did it take you to write your book ‘Music Head – A Memoir of Purpose’?

All of my life, practically! The idea has been floating around in my head for decades. When I was younger I was a scrap booker, and had all of these binders full of photos and concert ticket stubs and other memorabilia from my life. I always thought it would be cool to put together a definitive scrap book for my family.

Then, after I started seriously writing in the 1990’s, I thought to put together an autobiography of some sort. After editing the 10 year anniversary edition of my wine book in 2019 I began to compile the stories that make up Music Head, and then on winter break last January I completed it for the most part.

Q7. On what platforms can readers buy your books?

All of my books are available on Amazon.com. Other than that, there are a very small handful of shops in the Finger Lakes area that have supported my books.

Q8. Tell us about the process of coming up with the book cover and the title ‘Music Head – A Memoir of Purpose’?

Originally the book was going to be called Casual Conversations about Rock and Roll, but as it evolved I discovered that the book was really as much about me as it was about the musicians I was writing about, and that changed everything.

Throughout the book, and my life, I have continuously questioned ‘what is my purpose in this world?’ And, ‘who am I?’ Well, music has been the driving force throughout my whole life, so I am a ‘music head,’ and it seems I have found my purpose. It’s all in the book, of course.

As for the cover, my fiancée Debbie always loved the picture she took of me one winter day while I was sitting at my desk working on something. I had a full beard at the time, which is not my norm, and she suggested we use that. She said I looked like a writer! I guess it was my Finding Forester period!

I had the idea to use shiny black as the background in homage to The Beatles’ early singles on the Apple Records label and do the back cover print in the same color of green that The Beatles used. The green didn’t really work out that great so we changed it to gold. Deb used to work in magazine design. We worked on the cover together.

Q9. What would you say is your strength as a writer?

I think this harkens back to what I said about ‘who influenced my writing.’ I like to keep things simple and not try to impress anyone with overly flamboyant statements, or overly wordy passages.

Q10. What is the most valuable piece of advice you’ve been given about writing?

I don’t know if I’ve ever gotten any advice about writing. I certainly can’t recall anyone giving me any advice, but there are two things that spring to mind.

One is a line in the screenplay of The Last Emperor by Bernardo Betolucci. In the movie version he has Peter O’Toole say the line ‘words are important because they say what you mean, and a gentleman should always mean what he says.’ I have always found that statement to be very profound.

The other thing is; I’ve always believed that the universe has a plan. Why I wound up being a writer, I really don’t know, but surely everything happens for a reason.

Buy Music Head: A Memoir of Purpose on Amazon

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