Tell us about yourself and how many books you have written.
My name is David James Zoppi and I am an author and award-winning musician. I am retired, have a masters degree and rehabilitation counseling and worked with the disabled for over 15 years before suffering a massive heart attack. After my heart attack and retiring from my job, I wrote 14 books of various genres and pursued my black belt in karate which was the inspiration for my latest book.
What is the name of your latest book and what inspired it?
The name is my latest book is “Reaction-Based Self-Defense for Life and Death Situations”. I was inspired to write the book to help people learn to defend themselves, and learn to react rather than think if faced with a life or death situation.
Do you have any unusual writing habits?
I like to do Tai Chi before writing. It helps me to relax and focus more.
What authors, or books have influenced you?
William Shakespeare, Stephen King, Ernest Hemingway, Ray Bradbury, George R.R. Martin.
What are you working on now?
I am currently working on a book which addresses the problems with our broken political system in Washington and how to fix them.
What is your best method or website when it comes to promoting your books?
My best method for promoting my books is to run campaigns on sites like Facebook or Amazon.
Do you have any advice for new authors?
Learn to write outside of your comfort zone. Great chefs know how to cook lots of different foods, and writing is no different. Pick a topic you would like to write about but may not have much knowledge about, such as politics. Then, write an outline, research your topic and then starting writing!
What is the best advice you have ever heard?
Give your book away for free! I know it sounds crazy, but on Amazon I have let people download some of my books for free. It helps to increase exposure to some degree and helps you to get reviews as well!
What are you reading now?
I am currently reading a book on how to use internal energy, or chi, in martial arts.
What’s next for you as a writer?
My passion could take me anywhere. So, it is hard to know what is next for me. I just keep moving forward and let the winds of my passion guide me to my next project.
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 Holy Bible for sustaining myself spiritually, a book on first aid and a book on survival.
Author Websites and Profiles
David Zoppi Website