Tell us about yourself and how many books you have written.
The last 11 years I have spent in the non-profit world while I have written as a hobby / side job. Since high school, I have completed 8 books, with many more left incomplete or otherwise abandoned as writing projects. I recently left the non-profit sector to go back to school, where I’m earning my Master’s in Counseling. I am also the husband of a beautiful wife and an amazing son, and the 3 of us live in Portland, Oregon.
What is the name of your latest book and what inspired it?
My latest book is With God Again. It is a collection of the subjective spiritual experiences I have had over the years, and where I have seen the Spirit work in my life and in my world through those. I found that I needed an outlet to share some of the challenges and victories I have experienced, and I think the hope I have found in the midst of some of those challenges will give people hope.
Do you have any unusual writing habits?
When I write, a lot of times it is the result of a build-up of anxiety and depression. Those issues cause me to lose sleep sometimes, and so I write my books in those sleepless nights. Several of the books I have written were written in a single sitting.
What authors, or books have influenced you?
I have been strongly influenced by Rob Bell, Chris Hedges (former NY Times journalist), Noam Chomsky, and the work of Graham Cooke.
What are you working on now?
I am working on building up a regular blog site. Now that I am in a new career, I have more freedom to talk about the social and political issues that are important to me.
What is your best method or website when it comes to promoting your books?
Twitter: @authorak or email: akelsay@gmail.com
Do you have any advice for new authors?
I would strongly recommend you surround yourself with authors and editors who are more talented and experienced than you. Learn from the best, follow after their methods, strategies for marketing and such, just find better people than you. If you are the best, smartest writer in the room, you need to find another room.
What is the best advice you have ever heard?
Related to writing, I believe you need a 10:1 ration of pages read: pages written. Reading lots of good stuff will help you write lots of good stuff.
What are you reading now?
I am reading a ton of material around my counseling degree. The Skilled Helper is the basic, 501 class textbook but I have found that it has application for other things as well.
What’s next for you as a writer?
I am developing my skills personally and professionally, and I am trying to find ways to use my writing skills for people to better help themselves.
If you were going to be stranded on a desert island and allowed to take 3 or 4 books with you what books would you bring?
The Bible, Catch 22, 1984, and Ender’s Game.
Author Websites and Profiles
Aaron Kelsay Website
Aaron Kelsay Amazon Profile
Aaron Kelsay’s Social Media Links
Facebook Profile
Twitter Account