Tell us about yourself and how many books you have written.
I am a physical education teacher in the Green Bay School District. Currently, I live with my wife and 2 children in Wisconsin. Henry and the Gym Monster is my only book.
What is the name of your latest book and what inspired it?
As a physical education teacher, I was inspired to start writing because there is a lack of picture books that teach social skills in the gym setting. I hope that this book encourages educators and parents to have discussions with their children about taking responsibility for their actions.
Do you have any unusual writing habits?
I wrote the book with only my raw emotions and experiences. No research was done. It was a huge mistake although my heart was in the right place, I should have sought out some more guidance before starting.
What authors, or books have influenced you?
Julia Cook and Joey Acker
When I taught special education, I used many of Julia’s books to have some awesome social skills conversations. After my job working with self-contained students who struggled with mental health, I transitioned to a new job and school district. It was here where I discovered Joey’s book. It was the first book that I saw that took place in the gym. That gave me the idea to combine Julia’s themes with my current role and classroom.
What are you working on now?
I’m learning how to write Amazon ads for Henry and the Gym Monster. I have not begun a manuscript for the next book yet.
What is your best method or website when it comes to promoting your books?
I mean I have my own website, but not lots to offer outside my book. So traffic to my website is minimal at best. But I’ve seen lots of people do a great job at building a social media following. Facebook and Instagram (now Tiktok) are amazing! I’ve struggled in this area and decided to shift my focus and efforts elsewhere. In order to be successful with it, there are lots of things you can do, but need to be done in combination with each other. Engage at least 30 minutes a day. Post consistently! Stories, Reels etc… Making connections with people.
Do you have any advice for new authors?
Make a budget for yourself. Self-publishing got to be very expensive. Henry and the Gym Monster was a grad school project and then became a passion project post-graduation. The amount of time and money it took to complete was something I was not prepared for.
What is the best advice you have ever heard?
Join Facebook groups. There’s so much knowledge to gain and there are people that openly give it for free.
What are you reading now?
I didn’t read for my own enjoyment this summer as sad as that sounds. I recently completed a Kickstarter and was busy fulfilling orders, spending time with my family, and going “Up North.” Whatever I read is usually what my 4-year-old daughter picks out.
What’s next for you as a writer?
From a marketing standpoint, I want to line up author events/meet and greets next summer. Also, I’d like my book to be in as many local stores as I can get. I feel like for my book to gain popularity I need to make a difference in my community first.