Q1. Hello, can you please introduce yourself? Readers would love to know more about you.
Fictional writer drawing from life’s experiences and adventures into a blend of storytelling with a deep connection to the emotional side of the human heart. With a mix of 25 years of technology sales, marketing, and content creating, I enjoy sharing my experiences with the world. Being a cybersecurity expert, this background has become a nucleus for my fictional writing and short essays.
Q2. What were the key challenges you faced while writing your book ‘Sunrise in Saigon’?
The book is a blend of a non-fictional and fictional storyline. Many of the plots began with an element of non-fiction and ended with some creative storytelling fiction. The challenge in writing this story was around how to maintain a balance between the two writing styles.
Q3. What books or authors have most influenced your own writing?
Tom Clancy – The Hunt for Red October – Clancy provided extraordinary detail in his novels. He, too, also flirted with the balance between non-fiction facts and fictional storytelling. I loved all his books.
Q4. What’s your favorite spot to visit in your own country? And what makes it so special to you?
I live in Carlsbad, California, 4 Km from the beach. I love to cycle in California, and pretty much anywhere in the world, I can take my bike.
Q5. Is there lots to do before you dive in and start writing a book?
That depends on the book you are writing. “Sunrise in Saigon” was influenced by my trip to Vietnam in 2012 and 2013. I started writing the book in 2019 based on many events from those trips.
Q6. How long did it take you to write your book ‘Sunrise in Saigon’?
Great question. I wrote the draft edit in 3 months. Due to Covid-19, my publisher- Austin Macauley, like everyone else, struggled with the remote work challenges. In the end, they helped bring the book to market, and I love to write for them.
Q7. On what platforms can readers buy your book ?
Amazon.com, BarneandNoble.com, Walmart.com, Austinmacauley.com, Abebooks.com, Blackwells.co.uk, and bookshop.org.
Q8. Tell us about the process of coming up with the book cover and the title ‘Sunrise in Saigon’?
I shot this photo on the morning of 12-12-2012 from the 18th floor inside the Renaissance hotel in Saigon(Ho Chi Minh City). The river is very symbolic. You will need to read the book to understand better 🙂
Q9. When writing a book how do you keep things fresh, for both your readers and also yourself?
Always remember that every story has a beginning, a middle, and an end. How you get the end is based on well you tell your story from the beginning and use the middle to “big the plot” in hopefully creating a wonderful ending. The ending in “Sunrise in Saigon” took almost two weeks to write. Once you read the book, hopefully, you will know why 🙂
Q10. Are there any secrets from the book (that aren’t in the blurb), you can share with your readers?
Oh.. well yes. Lots of non-fiction to fiction and back to non-fiction again. You will just need to read the book and discovery which parts are fictional and non-fictional 🙂
Q1. Hello, can you please introduce yourself? Readers would love to know more about you.
My name is Anthony Waldren. I’m a husband, father, internationally award winning author, and an entrepreneur. I have a graphic design firm, called Starvin’ Artist Graphic Design.
Q2. What were the key challenges you faced while writing your book ‘Starvin’ Artist’?
I started writing my book in 2019. When the COVID-19 pandemic hit in 2020, I faced challenges with staying focused on writing and completing the book during the pandemic. Also, this is my first book, so I had a lot to learn this go around.
Q3. What books or authors have most influenced your own writing?
I was inspired by many authors and their work. I’ve read and was influenced by many authors, like Kiese Laymon, Damon Young, Cathy Park Hong, Booker T. Washington, Malcolm Gladwell, Robert Greene, MK Asante, Jesmyn Ward, and Carol Dweck to name a few.
Q4. What’s your favourite spot to visit in your own country? And what makes it so special to you?
My favorite spot to visit is home. After a long day of work, I love to be home where it’s peaceful. Home is my safe haven. My family is home. Other than that, anywhere my family is, is a great place to be. We’ve visited the Grand Canyon and that was a beautiful site to see.
Q5. Is there lots to do before you dive in and start writing a book?
Before diving into writing a book, I like to start the process with research and reading other books for inspiration.
Q6. How long did it take you to write ‘Starvin’ Artist’ book?
It took 2 and a half years to write Starvin’ Artist: Hunger for Success.
Q7. On what platforms can readers buy your book ?
Readers can buy my book on Amazon, Barnes and Nobles, Audible, Apple Books, Walmart, and more!
Q8. Tell us about the process of coming up with the book cover and the title ‘Starvin’ Artist’?
I came up with the cover myself. I’m a graphic designer by trade, so I designed it. The title is named after my graphic design firm.
Q9. When writing a book how do you keep things fresh, for both your readers and also yourself?
I keep things fresh by staying current with today’s media.
Q10. Are there any secrets from the book (that aren’t in the blurb), you can share with your readers?
I tell readers what “Starvin’ Artist” means and why it’s spelled the way it is.
Q1. Hello, can you please introduce yourself? Readers would love to know more about you.
I’m an advocate, a dreamer, an agitator, a co-conspirator, and a father. For four years, I coached my daughter’s competition cheerleading squad, working with 19 tween girls as we competed and won at both Nationals and Globals. I began coaching knowing nothing at all about coaching. I did it because my daughter asked if I would. The experience not only gave me 18 more daughters, but it changed my life and changed how I lead at work.
Q2. What were the key challenges you faced while writing your book ‘A Dad in a Cheer Bow’?
My experience as a coach was so personal and so challenging. I honestly never thought that others would care about my journey and the lessons I learned. But when people heard about my experiences, they loved asking questions. They didn’t believe me at first. As I thought more about it, I wanted to tell the story. But I was never sure I could do it justice.
Q3. What books or authors have most influenced your own writing?
My father is a presidential historian, so I spent my whole life watching him research and write and edit. So he is my greatest writing influence. I see myself as a storyteller in life, so I’m constantly looking for inspiration from those who can bring stories to life. McCullough, Amanda Ripley, and even recent authors like Jay Glazer and even Khloe Kardashian all inspire me. I love a great story!
Q4. What’s your favourite spot to visit in your own country? And what makes it so special to you?
There is nothing like NYC to watch people, listen to conversations, and observe lives. I can sit in a train station or an airport or a pizza joint and just soak it all in. As I work on a novel, it is a great way to understand dialogue. And the food just can’t be beat!
Q5. Is there lots to do before you dive in and start writing a book?
Dad in a Cheer Bow is my third book (Why Kids Can”t Read, an education book was my first. Dadprovement, a memoir, was second). I start by just writing. I skip over the intro of the book or of the chapter and just dive in. I write a few chapters and then show it to my wife. I’m a horrible editor and a worse judge of my work. So everything goes through my wife, Jennifer. She tells me if it is worth continuing, needs work, or needs a lot of work. She’s my guide through it all.
Q6. How long did it take you to write ‘A Dad in a Cheer Bow’ book?
I started writing the book during Covid. All told, it was written and edited in about eight months.
Q7. On what platforms can readers buy your book ?
It’s currently available in print or ebook on Amazon. It is also available as a print book on Barnes & Noble. We are conducting an audio version now.
Q8. Tell us about the process of coming up with the book cover and the title ‘A Dad in a Cheer Bow’?
The cover choice was an easy one. That is me and my daughter at Eastern Regionals, The competition that won us a bid to Nationals. At cheer competitions, I was a unicorn as a male cheer coach. I had some competitor coaches who told me I had no business coaching cheer as I was a boy. So I leaned into. I first got a tutu from the mom of one of athletes. Two other moms gave me the feather boa. I had one cheerleader ask me if I would wear the same cheer bow all my athletes wore at competition. With my shaved head, my only choice was attaching it to a fedora.
Thus the title. I am a dad in a cheer bow. I only coached because of my daughter and my wanting to be a more involved father. I wear the title with honor.
Q9. When writing a book how do you keep things fresh, for both your readers and also yourself?
The big thing in competitive cheer is working to compete at Nationals, which was hosted at Disney World (before covid). So I spent quite some time finding the right Disney quotes to start each of the chapters, quotes that would foreshadow what the reader would discover. I wrote chronologically, which can be boring as an author. So I had to really think about the life lessons I wanted to communicate at the end. Ultimately, the final section of the book (the first four sections are the four seasons) is what I would hope each of my athletes would one day read.
Q10. Are there any secrets from the book (that aren’t in the blurb), you can share with your readers?
Most tweens are embarrassed by their parents, particularly their dads in a tutu. While my daughter would get embarrassed when I would be stopped for photos at competitions, the experience made us incredibly close. Even at 15, she still considers me one of her closest friends.
At a national conference for cheer coaches in Las Vegas, I was one of only a handful of men, in a group of more than a thousand. I actually had another coach slip me her hotel room key that week.
I never thought it, but I miss coaching terribly. During the middle of COVID, my daughter and I both retired from cheer. She tried to come out of retirement last year, but we were in a gym where racism was a problem, and with a Latino daughter, we felt we needed to quit the gym and make a statement (I ended up writing about it on Medium). This year, my daughter came out of retirement for a second time, cheering for her high school and its competition cheer team. For the first time in eight years, I can now go to competitions and just watch and enjoy my daughter and her effort.
Q1. Hello, can you please introduce yourself? Readers would love to know more about you.
A1. Absolutely! Thank you for speaking with me! My name is Brian Parsons. I am the author of the Don’t Bee a Prick series, which is a collection of literary works I have developed over twenty years of serving in a multitude of leadership roles to include serving as a U.S. Marine, peace officer, teacher, public speaker, drill instructor, CEO, curriculum and programs developer, parent, and non-profit manager.
Q2. What were the key challenges you faced while writing your book ‘Don’t Bee a Prick’?
A2. Great question! Don’t Bee a Prick was not only in no way challenging, it was so much fun to write! Aside from the contributing challenges every leader experiences over the course of their tenure working with people that assist us in our growth and development, this book series has been an absolute pleasure to work on and I’m so excited to share it with leaders at all levels!
Q3. What books or authors have most influenced your own writing?
A3. I don’t know where I would be without Dale Carnegie’s books! How to Win Friends and Influence People is my earliest exposure to leadership and effective communication. Stylistically, my books resemble Shel Silverstein’s work; and that is no accident. I am a songwriter first and foremost, so transposing my leadership philosophy into short and memorable poems and including my own bee illustrations was not only where I felt the most comfortable but was also definitely a nod to him for all of the enrichment he added to my childhood. I also love absorbing new and interesting perspectives from brilliant leaders like Simon Sinek, David Groggins, and Steven Covey.
Q4. What’s your favourite spot to visit in your own country? And what makes it so special to you?
A4. This is such a beautiful country and every place I’ve been holds sentiment with me. No place quite compares or inspires me more than the Oregon coast. Perhaps it’s because I look like a sea captain, but if I have the ocean air in my face, the sand in my toes, and the sound of waves crashing against the shore I am completely at peace.
Q5. Is there lots to do before you dive in and start writing a book?
A5. Excellent question! For me and my process, it really depends on the book. The first installment of Don’t Bee a Prick was conceptualized, written, illustrated, designed, and published all over the course of three days. The second installment wasn’t much different. Perhaps that is a result of the time I spent gaining the experiential base and credibility to write the books. They were subjects I have spent over two decades gaining an expertise in. My current installment is requiring quite a bit more research and subject matter expert consultation.
Q6. How long did it take you to write your book ‘Don’t Bee a Prick’?
A6. The first installment was written and illustrated in three days.
It is available in paperback, hardcover, on Kindle as an eReader (most economical option), and it will be available as an audiobook on Audible in 2023.
They will also be available in individual prints on Etsy if a certain page or principle stands out to you enough to make you want to hang it in your office, classroom, or home in a frame.
Q8. Tell us about the process of coming up with the book cover and the title ‘Don’t Bee a Prick’?
A8. I love this question because the book title and cover have garnered a lot of attention! I really just wanted to write a leadership book using a familiar phrase of mine that I’ve used for years and present it like a children’s book for adults. I wanted to hone in on the simplicity of the basic leadership principles that I would be outlining as the main content for the book. The bee illustrations were used not only to draw the parallel between the two definitions of “prick” I was alluding to, but also as an illustration of the leadership structure inherent in bee colonies. This was the book and title that I was most intrigued by, and I wanted to write the leadership book that I wanted to read.
Q9. When writing a book how do you keep things fresh, for both your readers and also yourself?
A9. Great question! This was a primary focus of this book. I always say that I’ve never read a bad leadership book, but I have read some long ones! I have accumulated so many books on leadership over the years I feel like I can furnish a whole library with them. One of the adjustments I wanted to make when I published Don’t Bee a Prick was trimming out any of the author’s unnecessary and self-aggrandizing narrative that would occupy the first thirty pages or so of most of the leadership books in my library.
This book is organized into short memorable poems as mnemonic devices to assist the leader in recalling the most important foundations of the leadership applications and principles that are outlined in the book. Getting right to the point was a paramount focus.
Q10. Are there any secrets from the book (that aren’t in the blurb), you can share with your readers?
A10. Yes! There is also a book in the series for parents and children, and teachers and students, to read together that cultivates early leadership principles during early developmental stages through play activity and storytelling called Don’t Bee a Little Prick also available on Amazon. I would love for you to visit my website containing regular blog posts, book deals, and updates on the Don’t Bee a Prick series and I would love to connect with you all on LinkedIn, Instagram @BrianParsonsAuthor, and Facebook at Facebook.com/DontBeeAPrick.
Q1. Hello, can you please introduce yourself? Readers would love to know more about you.
Katherine Meier is a trend setter and trail blazer. Many will be helped by her life, her discoveries, and her contentions as well as Holy Spirit inspired aspirations. Dave Pedersen
I am the Katherine Meier referred to above… I need to pinch myself to reconnect my brain to the fact that THIS IS ME being spoken of. I am a wife to my husband of 16 years and a mom of 5 biological boys and we are currently in the adoption process of two wonderful little girls.
I am also a lover of Jesus that walks very closely in intimacy with Him. I have a seer anointing that has opened up the realms of visions and dreams. The call over my life is intimacy with Him. I am an activator that activates people into a deeper relationship and intimacy with the Trinity. I am also an author and I write blogs.
I am very adventurous, and I love connection with people and nature. I am real, honest and authentic.
Q2. What were the key challenges you faced while writing ‘Fight’ book?
There was a lot of spiritual warfare that my family had to go through in releasing this book but even though it was very hard, we have come out stronger and more committed to the call over our family.
Q3. What books or authors have most influenced your own writing?
There are too many to mention but some of my favorite influences are: Nate Johnston, Lana Vawser, Patricia King, Ian Clayton, Bill Johnson, Sarah-Jane Biggart, James Maloney’s accounts of the golden candlestick ladies, Candice Smithyman, Brian Simmons, Jeremiah Johnson, Roland Buck, Jodie Hudges, Dutch Sheets, Justin Paul Abraham, Lou Engle, Gary Oats, Paul Keith Davis, Dr Bill Hamon, Troy Brewer and Leif Hetland.
Q4. What’s your favorite spot to visit in your own country? And what makes it so special to you?
My favorite place is Riet River. It is a small little seaside village in the Easter Cape. It has been my place of retreat once a year for two weeks. I sit on the sand dunes in the night hours and enjoy the stillness around me and the clarity of His voice. It is a yearly time of rest in Him and where He fill my cup to overflow and where I receive my blueprints for the year ahead. It is also a time of great fun and family connection that fills me with so much joy.
Q5. Is there lots to do before you drive in and start writing a book?
Honestly, for me, I felt like I was set up by the Holy Spirit. I started filling up journal after journal since 2016 and that ended up being a lot of my preparation for this book. I prayed about the chapters and wrote that down first and then just started writing in the different chapters as I was led. I did not write in order; I wrote as He said, and it all ended up in this beautiful step by step journey of how I went from being broken to live in freedom in Him.
Q6. How long did it take you to write ‘Fight’ book?
I heard the call to write the book in 2019 from the Holy Spirit and started to get all my visions and dreams from many years together. I officially started in January 2020 and sent it of to my editor on the 23rd of December 2020. I then waited until the Holy Spirit gave me the go ahead to release it and that call came in March of 2022.
Q7. On what all platforms readers can find ‘Fight’ book to buy?
You can order through my linktree (linktr.ee/Kat_Meier) under ‘order form’ and I have a courier that sends it to places in South Africa. It is also available on Kindle. You will find the link on my linktree. It’s also on the website: achosengeneration.co.za.
Q8. Tell us about the process of coming up with the book cover and the title ‘Fight’?
I wrote the book and then handed it over to my editor who read through it, and she said that the overwhelming message in the book to her was in one simple word ‘Fight’ and when I heard it, I knew that was it. I wanted a simple yet impactful name that summed up my life up until now. I then handed it over to my publishing team and gave them a vision that I wanted as the front cover. They took the vision and came up with three possibilities. When I saw this cover, I was so overcome with emotion as it depicts the book so beautifully.
Q9. When writing a book how do you keep things fresh, for both your readers and also yourself?
This book was written and inspired through the breath of Holy Spirit. That is how I write all my blogs as well. I listen and write an account of what I hear in the secret place. I have never tried to write in another way and that is how I know it will stay fresh because the words come from my intimacy and relationship with the Trinity.
Q10. Are there any secrets from the book (that aren’t in the blurb), you can share with your readers?
I want to encourage anyone who has a message inside of them but feel inadequate, to just start. I had no understanding of writing or languages and had no desire to turn my accounts of His voice into a book but as I wrote, the Holy Spirit opened door after door after door. My editor is a close friend, and this was her last book before she started as a full-time teacher. My second editor is my closest friend who happens to be excellent at languages and as I watched her pick up all the errors in different blogs she read, I felt the Holy Spirit breathe on the connection and when I asked her, she said yes. We started a publishing company based on a word spoken to both my husband and I at the same time by the Holy Spirit even though we were in separate rooms. Over and over, the doors just opened. All that was required of me were obedience and a yes even though I had no idea what He was going to do with this.
Q1. Hello, can you please introduce yourself? Readers would love to know more about you.
As a Washingtonian and 2x HBCU Alum, Dr. Joy Green is an SHRM Certified Professional (SHRM-CP) earning her Doctorate in Strategic Leadership from Liberty University. From her Doctorate Research Project, she was stimulated to create this guided journal to inspire women to continue to accomplish heir goals and to strive for anything they want to achieve regardless of the hurdles that may lie ahead. In her spare time, Dr. Joy loves to travel, spend time with friends and family, go to amusement parks, and take on new adventures. If you’d like to find out more about Dr. Joy, visit her on her social media pages https://linktr.ee/fromgoalstoreality, where Dr. Joy uses her platform to empower women to reach their goals while maximizing their full potential
Q2. What were the key challenges you faced while writing ‘Goal Get’em Girls!: Guided Journal’ book?
Goal Get’em Girls! is a quick read that touches on eight barriers that could stop you dead in your tracks from goal achievement. The challenge for me was narrowing down what barriers I wanted to shed light on, as we all know there are many reasons we can be held back from reaching our goals. I chose these eight barriers because I felt readers would be able to relate and with the wisdom I share, the knowledge could benefit helping readers in closing the gap between their goals and them becoming a reality.
Q3. What books or authors have most influenced your own writing?
During Covid, with much more time on my hands, I spent time reading self-help books to better myself personally. To name a few, I’ve read “You Are a Badass: How to Stop Doubting Your Greatness and Start Living an Awesome Life”, “Unfu*k Yourself: Get Out of Your Head and into Your Life”, and “The Little Book of Big Lies: A Journey into Inner Fitness”. With the joy, I felt and the inspiration I received to better myself, I sought to provide that same emotion to others but towards goal attainment.
Q4. What’s your favorite spot to visit in your own country? And what makes it so special to you?
I have visited many places in the United States, but my favorite spot will always be Washington, DC because that is home. In DC, you will never be at a loss for things to do in this city. Whatever scene you’re looking for, we have it. The city is diverse with great culture and history.
Q5. Is there lots to do before you drive in and start writing a book?
Before I started working on my book, I made sure I was first in the mood to write. I created dedicated writing spaces around the house. I produced small attainable writing goals for myself to keep me on track. I always wrote in silence, to be able to hear the thoughts in my head.
Q6. How long did it take you to write ‘Goal Get’em Girls!: Guided Journal’ book?
Goal Get’em Girls! took me two months to write.
Q7. On what all platforms readers can find ‘Goal Get’em Girls!: Guided Journal’ book to buy?
Currently, readers can enjoy Goal Get’em Girls! as a paperback bought through Amazon.
Q8. Tell us about the process of coming up with the book cover and the title ‘Goal Get’em Girls!: Guided Journal’?
When coming up with the book cover, I knew I wanted to use bright colors but I had many envisions of how I thought the cover should be. I was torn between using stock images or keeping the cover clean and simple. As you can see, I chose to keep it simple adding glitter for pizazz and using the explosion shape to represent the energy you’ll have after reading the guided journal to conquer your goals. When creating the title Goal Get’em Girls!, I knew I wanted the title to be catchy, intrigue my target audience, and provide a glimpse of what readers can expect from my guided journal. I came up with Goal Get’em Girls! as a chant to all of my goal-achieving women as a motivator to persevere through their goal journey. My guided journal is about encouraging women to continue to go after their goals no matter what barriers they face. Any barrier can be shattered, as long as you believe in yourself and you have a plan. As the author, I’m rooting for you to become that woman you’ve always dreamed of becoming, so I say Goal Get’em Girls!. Chase after your goals and crush them.
Q9. When writing a book how do you keep things fresh, for both your readers and also yourself?
I’m very active on social media, where I keep up with what is trending but also I follow like- minded people who are passionate about things I’m into. I use my experiences through my own life to create stories I believe are worth writing about. When talking to my inner circle about various topics about how we are feeling, or have experienced, or things that we’ve reacted to, I become intrigued in our conversation which makes me want to write about that. I continue to read other self-help books and watch videos that give me a spark.
Q10. Are there any secrets from the book (that aren’t in the blurb), you can share with your readers?
Three critical takeaways readers will receive from this book are: This journal will open your eyes toward goal-getting and not just goal-setting. This journal is not just meant to be read but readers should reflect on what they are reading. That way they could get the maximum benefit from this journal. This book wasn’t written to give you the answers to achieving your goals; it was written to provide the accountability you need to keep going
Q1. Hello, can you please introduce yourself? Readers would love to know more about you.
My name is Nicole Verrone and I’m a native of North Carolina. There, I spent time on a dairy farm as a child, on the roof of my parent’s house writing poetry in notebooks as an adolescent, in the Black Mountains during college on a quaker farm and have been trying to escape to see the world since I felt stuck on a plot of land in Union County as a child. I’ve been married for 25 years to a shy fly fisherman who is the best dad and partner and friend a girl could ever want. I have four daughters, all thriving in their spaces.
Q2. What were the key challenges you faced while writing ‘Nest of Stars’ book?
I have difficulty leaving these beloved humans to hide and write. My husband and I have so much fun together and my girls are wonderful companions, full of empathy and compassion and intelligent both emotionally and intellectually. Because I give so much, always making sure everyone is fed and content, taking time to do what I was created to do was hard, and I waited twenty years until I felt they were secure and happy to sneak away and listen to the words that I’d kept at bay. My life is more beautiful outside than in, and its sometimes easier to be in the present than diving internally to listen. It can feel pretty deep and isolating there.
Q3. What books or authors have most influenced your own writing?
Circe by Madeleine Miller, Mary Oliver’s poetry, Whitman, Tennyson, Frost, Angelo, Marquez, Thoreau, Bishop, Bob Dylan, Melville
Q4. What’s your favorite spot to visit in your own country? And what makes it so special to you?
I love Boston because of the history and warm memories of walking the cobbled streets as a 17-year-old. It was the first city I visited that convinced me I belonged in New England. It was a space of the brilliant, it was romantic, it was delicious, it was steeped in stories, it was intriguing and mysterious and everything I wanted in a city. I still feel I belong there; through I reside in the south.
Q5. Is there lots to do before you drive in and start writing a book?
Only lots of listening and unplugging, reading and musing. All time well spent that gives itself to creation the way the darkness called for light and put order to the chaos of the mind.
Q6. How long did it take you to write ‘Nest of Stars’ book?
About six months of writing.
Q7. On what all platforms’ readers can find ‘Nest of Stars’ book to buy?
Amazon, Barnes and Noble and any Indie bookstores.
Q8. Tell us about the process of coming up with the book cover and the title ‘Nest of Stars’?
My friend Sarah Helser is an artist and we have shared life for almost 20 years. She shared her art with me for the cover, and it meant everything to me.
Q9. When writing a book how doyou keep things fresh, for both your readers and you?
If I write that which I hear echo in my mind, I can only assume others have experienced a glimpse of the experience. But we can never know, can we, what others truly feel and think. Art is an expression of the deepest wounds and the resolution of their injury by way of beauty for ash. It isn’t fresh or new, but to me, it’s real, and it’s my way of climbing out of the deep so I can be a part of the waking world. I’m always relieved when I finish a piece, like I conquered the dream internal battle and turned its weapons into a sculpture.
Q10. Are there any secrets from the book (that aren’t in the blurb), you can share with your readers?
Q1. Please introduce yourself so that the readers will get to know you better.
I’m Jonnie Forster. Husband to Kamilah. Father to Ivy Paisley. Son of Fran and Irwin from Brooklyn New York. Brother to Evan, Brian, and Darren. I’m the youngest of four sons. We grew up in Westlake Village California. I’ve been in the music industry my entire career. This is my first book.
Q2. What is your inspiration behind your book “The Bird & The Bee”?
Around 10 years ago, I was relaxing by myself looking at the lake in Lake Tahoe. A hummingbird flew over my shoulder and hovered for a long time. He was ten feet away began feeding on some flowers next to a bunch of bees. I didn’t run from the bees, the bird didn’t fly away from me, we all just were chillin. I recently was married and my wife is African American and I’m Jewish. I thought to myself, I’m looking at the bird and the bee, and I took on the role of the hummingbird. I realized that when I have a child, I’m going to need to tell the story of the Bird and the Bees and here they were right in front of me. Fast forward through the pandemic, I was in quarantine and had the time to finally put my ideas down and now I’m an author.
Q3. When did you realize you want to be an author of Children’s Book?
I realized that there was no animated feature film of the birds and the bees yet. How can that be? I began to write a movie script and then a friend of mine suggested I make a children’s book instead to protect the idea. I thought I was going to self-publish a few copies and then start talking about my idea for the movie but when I saw the images come to life, I knew we were on to something much more important.
Q4. Are you planning to release your next book soon?
I am being encourage to write a series of books on The Bird and The Bee. Since we have it published now by Simon & Shuster, the plan is to actually make it into a TV show which can actually be its own e-book.
Q5. For which age group your books are suitable?
The Bird and The Bee is perfect for ages 4-8. It’s a great first read (My daughter who is 4 is learning to read from it). The illustrations are so spectacular that older kids are also loving it.
Q6. What is your favorite Quote?
It’s the mantra my 4 year old says: “I Can Do Anything I Set My Mind To Do.” I also love the theme of this book – “Love Over Everything.”
Q7. What do you like the most about your country?
I love that we can wake up and decide our own fate. We can decide, today I’m going to write a children’s book.
Q8. What suggestion you want to give to parents of little readers regarding a reading habit?
Read every day to your child. Make sure you point at the words that they have trouble with and sound it out for them. Do not skip over the hard ones, have them visually see the letters so their brain can absorb the sounds. Reward them when they get the words right with a “YAY.”
Q9. What does literary success look like to you?
Finishing what you start. Always, finish what you start.
Q10. Lastly, who is your inspiration in life and why?
My parents are my inspiration. They had 4 boys, 18 months apart each. I can’t imagine the amount of sacrifice that took. They also instilled in all of us values of being there for each other no matter what. Times are tough, it’s always great to know you have family in your corner.
Q1. Hello, can you please introduce yourself? Readers would love to know more about you.
My name is Jonathan Andy Cerruto. I’m 42 years young and I was born in Toronto, Canada, and I’m an author. When I was little, my family decided to move to Italy, in Sicily to be more specific. It took a very heavy toll, because I had to leave one of my brothers behind, it was hard also because from a very big, modern and multicultural city, I found myself living in a very small town. It was a struggle because I had to also learn a new language from scratch. I grew up in a very dysfunctional family, very religious, very strict and self-expression was prohibited. Since I was a little boy, I’ve always had big dreams, always had a fire inside waiting to burst out. I’ve always been attracted to art, music, fashion but something that used to give me real joy, was, is writing, writing stories, poems, and rhymes. I remember finding myself hiding under the kitchen table to write or to draw something on one of my mother’s magazines “The Watchtower” about “god” and “new worlds”. When I was 18, I decided to leave home and pursue my dreams. I graduated in Fashion, as a Fashion Designer in Milan, after graduated I had the amazing opportunity to collaborate with major brands in the fashion industry in Rome and Milan but, I wasn’t really happy. I started to write this amazing story, that I used to dream at night, about these two kids Joshua and Ashley. In that period, life had something else in store for me and after moving from city to city across Italy because of no jobs, I packed my little belongings and with just 80 euros in my pocket, I moved to London, a city that somehow has changed me forever. I started working in any place that needed help, in restaurants, cleaning, I was also a caretaker for an old man sometimes, working for 18 hours straight, just to make few bucks so I could invest in my dreams. It was in London where I created few collections and had the chance to showcase them in front an audience but, I felt like something was still missing. I gathered all my strength, my will, my courage, and recollected those drafts left on the side. I continued writing, but this time I didn’t stop. What I call “The voices” started to whisper to me what path I needed to walk on if I really wanted to be happy. So, I decided to keep writing, no matter what time it was, no matter where I was. I kept writing, until one day, I realized that I had written the first novel of the saga of Joshua Bane.
Q2. What were the key challenges you faced while writing ‘Joshua Bane and The Five Watchtowers’ book?
I had to fight against tiredness and lack of time, I was working multiple hours per day, time wasn’t my best friend, most of the time I was tired. In that period, I was working as a kitchen porter in an Italian restaurant in Soho area, in London. Joshua Bane and the Five Watchtowers it’s a fantasy book, somehow inspired by personal experiences that I had to face myself in my little life and my goal was, still is, to keep my readers entertained, so I had to work on my detailed imagination, I had to describe about the magical worlds and trust me, after working for all those hours it’s not always that easy all you think about is to rest, I didn’t rest, I kept going.
Q3. What books or authors have most influenced your own writing?
I’ve always been fascinated by Edgar Allan Poe. One of my favorite books by this amazing Author are ‘Tales of Mystery & Imagination’, ‘The gold Bug’ and ‘The Pit and The Pendulum’. I do love to experiment with my reading. I like to read not only fantasy or mystery books. I really appreciate Doris Lessing, the Author of ‘The Four-Gated City’, amazing story of how important mental health is and how has changed throughout the history.
Q4. What’s your favorite spot to visit in your own country? And what makes it so special to you?
I have visited many places, I still don’t feel like belonging to any country, however as mentioned before, London has changed me, I particularly remember a specific spot in Soho, ‘Soho Park’ which is where I first kissed my husband, so yes that is my favorite spot in London. ‘Villa Borghese’ in Rome is also another spot that I really like so, yes, I would say London and Rome are my two favorite spots. Both magical places.
Q5. Is there lots to do before you drive in and start writing a book?
No one will knock at your door asking if you need help to pursue your dreams, it’s up to us and how badly you want something. I run my days always been grateful and repeating a mantra which is: “Life is a test, do your homework and show up”. Discipline is a very important quality in life, especially in artistic jobs. I have the good practice to write every single day, even when the inspiration isn’t there, give its time and it will come! I think the hardest part of writing a book or writing in general is when the block comes knocking at your door. I am a “go-with-the-flow” type of guy and even though discipline is important, I’ve learnt to leave it on the side when it’s necessary and do something else. Every author has in own way of writing, I get most of my inspirations during my sleeps, or right before falling asleep and sometimes I must force myself to wake up, if I am sleeping or get up of the bed, I write it down. I believe it’s a divine responsibility to listen to inspiration or how I call them “the voices”. I used to shut them down because of fear, now I have embraced them because thanks to these voices I’m doing what I love and most importantly, I am able to share a message of hope through my writings.
Q6. How long did it take you to write ‘Joshua Bane and The Five Watchtowers’ book?
In total is took me 12 years on and off, from start to finish yes, 12 years.
Q7. On what all platforms’ readers can find ‘Joshua Bane and The Five Watchtowers’ book to buy?
‘Joshua Bane and The Five Watchtowers’ is available on Amazon all over the world, on my profile Instagram @jonathanandycerruto, on Austin Macauley Publishers, which is the House Publishers that published my first novel and, in any store, where they sell fine books.
Q8. Tell us about the process of coming up with the book cover and the title ‘Joshua Bane and The Five Watchtowers’?
I’ve always been fascinated about time and dream catchers, in this first novel, Joshua, the protagonist gets a lot of guidance from his dreams, in the book and in real life, dreams have always been a crucial part of my creative carrier path and creations. In the first book Opera, who is one of the Five Watchtowers, or Guardian, represent the element of fire, destructive but essential for everyday life, so I wanted to implement those symbolism on the first book cover. The title has a very personal connection to me and to my life experiences. I mentioned earlier that my family was very religious. I was part of a cult, which I run off from, when I was 18 years old. “Watchtowers” is the name of their main religious magazine, which they use for their propaganda and it’s also the name of their organization or cult. I used to draw or write on top of them when I was little, as a form of rebellion to that very strict lifestyle, so I wanted to incorporate those meaningful moments on the title and throughout the books.
Q9. When writing a book how do you keep things fresh, for both your readers and you?
I love reading, listening to music, writing lyrics, and watching movies, those things have always helped me to escape from reality and somehow have helped me to develop the artistic talents that resides inside of me. I’m very active on social media, I think it’s the future for any kind of businesses. Thanks to social media I’m aware of what happens around me, this way I can find inspiration and keep things actual and fresh.
Q10. Are there any secrets from the book (that aren’t in the blurb), you can share with your readers?
My readers are curious with the villain character and Her identity. I can only say that on the second novel She will come clearer when it comes with Her real identity. It’s a 5-book series, I have finished writing the second volume and started writing the third, in between other writing projects. I can only tell you that it’s a series of twist and unexcepted turns. Stay tuned.
Q1. Hello, can you please introduce yourself? Readers would love to know more about you.
My name is Georgette Van Vliet. I live in New Jersey, USA. My parents immigrated to America from Greece after World War II. I struggled with depression, anxiety and other negative emotions for many years. Life was so difficult for me that I never even wanted to get out of bed. That is how my personal development journey began. I was very inspired by the self-help industry and immersed myself in books and workshops. I eventually became a life coach. Once I was able to overcome the negative emotions enough where I could enjoy my life and pursue my dreams, I knew I had to write books to share with people the simple, practical ways I built my confidence and self-worth on my journey to happiness. I love my life. I am married and have a son. I have a great career as a high school administrator. I write books and am invited to present workshops in many different places. I travel extensively with either my family or friends. I am always on the move!
Q2. What were the key challenges you faced while writing ‘Attract Love, Joy And Abundance’ book?
Getting my message across clearly and simply. When I was depressed and anxious, I couldn’t read complicated material. It just made my situation worse. My goal in writing my books or presenting workshops is to have the reader feel, “I can do this!” I spend a lot of time revising to make sure I get my ideas across succinctly, so my readers can start practicing the tips immediately.
Q3. What books or authors have most influenced your own writing?
I am an avid reader! I love Dr. Wayne Dyer, Louise Hay, Napoleon Hill, Jack Canfield, and Julia Cameron. Of course, I have read hundreds of books, but these authors in particular have all been extremely influential in my personal development journey to finding lasting love, joy, and success!
Q4. What’s your favorite spot to visit in your own country? And what makes it so special to you?
America is so beautiful and there are many places where I feel like I connect to God, spirit and my intuition. I love the mountains of Catskills, New York. I love the beaches in South Hampton, New York. I love the Grand Canyon. Nature absolutely brings out the best in me and gets my creativity aligned with the messages I want to deliver to the world.
Q5. Is there lots to do before you drive in and start writing a book?
Yes. It could take me anywhere from six months to a year. I also work full time as a high school English supervisor, so my time to write is limited to evenings and weekends. My first draft is what I call “a dump.” I just dump all my ideas into a massive long paragraph because I don’t want to forget anything. Then I go back and create paragraphs and revise so my message is clear. I spend hours and hours, days and days writing and revising my books. The minimum amount of revisions it goes though is 12 times. Then when I feel my message is clear, I reread it several times for editing purposes. It is painstaking, but I love the process. I love the feeling of accomplishment when it is done, and I love that my practical tips and advice have helped a lot of people.
Q6. How long did it take you to write ‘Release Negative Emotions And Love Your Life!’ book?
Each books takes approximately six months to write. I do a lot of research, and it takes a while to organize my notes, my thoughts, my personal experiences and to also share some of the challenges and successes of the people I coach. I bring all this information together in a way that is practical and approachable for everyone. One of my goals is to make sure that my tips can help every single person who reads my books or who attends my workshops.
Q7. On what all platforms readers can find ‘Create A Life You Love After Divorce’ book to buy?
Q8. Tell us about the process of coming up with the cover and the title of your books ?
Coming up with a title is tricky. It has to be catchy. I like to keep my titles short, so people can remember them, but I want to make sure there are key words in the title, so people know exactly what they are going to read. I definitely play around with different titles until something intuitively tells me – this is the one! I work with a fabulous graphic artist and together we brainstorm many options for book covers.
Q9. When writing a book how do you keep things fresh, for both your readers and also yourself?
A lot of my content and ideas come from the people I coach. It seems we all have universal concerns and challenges. I stay focused on finding simple solutions that are available to everyone. One of the things that bothered me when I was most depressed is that a lot of the programs that could have helped me were extremely expensive. That is why I am so focused on keeping my book and workshop prices reasonable. I don’t want anyone to ever feel disappointed because they are missing an opportunity to learn and grow.
Q10. Are there any secrets from the book (that aren’t in the blurb), you can share with your readers?
Yes. My favorite secret is that these practices aren’t meant to be done once. To be successful, to alleviate some of your pain, depression, anxiety, stress – or any other negative emotion – you have to commit yourself to these personal development practices. Over time, you will notice that you are a happier, more confident person. It is the best feeling, but you have to be patient with yourself as you practice these tips. If you have felt any of these negative emotions for a long time, it might take a while to change. But never give up on having your dream life!
Sassy Reviews 