Tell us about yourself and how many books you have written.
I am a former Los Angeles Times staff writer who’s written two books and am working on a third. I also blog, write magazine articles and work as a radio broadcaster, specifically as reporter and weekend news anchor.
What is the name of your latest book and what inspired it?
Nazis & Nudists is a memoir recalling my long journey through the American counterculture of the 1960s and ’70s to my own “green leafy space,” which turned out to be on a remote Philippine island in the arms of a dark-haired girl who, as I said in the dedication, “came from a small island to make my life large.” The book’s theme, really, is the universal search for a place to call home.
Do you have any unusual writing habits?
Much of the book was initially written in the wee hours of the night and morning on a cell phone.
What authors, or books have influenced you?
I had a love affair with Henry Miller back in the day. I actually met him in a theater in Santa Monica once, back in the late 1970s shortly before his death. There have been many other influences, too numerous to list.
What are you working on now?
I’ve started blogging weekly for an online publication called Live In the Philippines Web Magazine, mostly written by and for expats in the Philippines. I expect my contributions to eventually become a book.
What is your best method or website when it comes to promoting your books?
I’ve tried almost everything I’ve heard of that doesn’t cost too much. Lots of websites have successfully promoted interest, though its hard to get people to actually shell out money for a book.
Do you have any advice for new authors?
Write every day, even when you don’t feel like it. Write about what you know. If it’s painful or troubling, it’s probably good. Eventually you will find your own voice in a special place you will be able to reach at will.
What is the best advice you have ever heard?
See above.
What are you reading now?
Tend to read lots of history.
What’s next for you as a writer?
Relocating to the Philippines. Lots of blogging.
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?
As many of James Michener’s books as I could carry.
Author Websites and Profiles
David Haldane Website
David Haldane Amazon Profile
David Haldane’s Social Media Links
Facebook Profile
Twitter Account