Tell us about yourself and how many books you have written.
Thanks for asking. I am originally from Canada, but have lived most of my life abroad. In terms of education, I have degrees in psychology and theater studies, and certificates in language teaching and Japanese proficiency.
Over the last twenty years, I’ve written more than a dozen books, all nonfiction. They include textbooks for English and Japanese language learners; guidebooks to Hiroshima and Nagasaki; translations of the Tao Te Ching with commentary and artwork; and works on European and Asian theater.
More recently, I have devoted myself to the creation of a set of lavish, full-color coffee table fine art books.
What is the name of your latest book and what inspired it?
My latest is the fifth in the coffee table art book series. It’s called “Sights in Mind: A Fifth Stroll Through the Davmandy Collection”.
The series has evolved over the years as my portfolio of artwork has grown and diversified. Fans of the previous books will note a more playful tone, and a greater interest in experimenting with the tools available to the digital artist.
Do you have any unusual writing habits?
Compared to what (lol)? There are a myriad of approaches to creativity, especially when it comes to writing.
As far as the coffee table books are concerned, I concentrate mainly on building up my art portfolio. Once I have far more pieces than I’d require for a single book, I review them as whole, and begin to identify common themes that might serve as chapter headings.
What authors, or books have influenced you?
In my early twenties, I decided to ‘improve myself’ (whatever that means), and as part of that project I spent a year reading the classics. “Moby Dick” was the first substantial work that I tackled, and when I finally finished it, I remember being floored by Melville’s ability to weave that much storytelling into an organic whole.
What are you working on now?
The focus at the moment is on my artwork. Another six months perhaps and I will have enough material to consider putting together another compilation.
What is your best method or website when it comes to promoting your books?
I know that Instagram is all the rage, but I prefer Twitter. Some might find the length limit a problem, but it helps me to focus on what I want to say, and let the art speak for itself.
Do you have any advice for new authors?
The three W’s: Write, write and write. If it’s lousy, accept that. You can always fix it up another day. If you don’t feel like writing, accept that too, but write something anyway. And never use writer’s block as an excuse. I’ve never met anyone who was so blocked that they couldn’t write at least one sentence.
What is the best advice you have ever heard?
In your writing and your life, lead with your strengths, not your weaknesses.
What are you reading now?
I’m not.
What’s next for you as a writer?
Another art compilation when the portfolio has grown.
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?
My two favorite treatises on what it means to be alive: “War and Peace” and “Tao Te Ching”.
Number 3 would be a book on how to survive on a desert island.
Author Websites and Profiles
David Petersen Website
David Petersen Amazon Profile
David Petersen’s Social Media Links
Goodreads Profile
Facebook Profile
Twitter Account
Pinterest Account