Interview With Author Jim Caldwell
Tell us about yourself and how many books you have written.
I am eighty-one years old. I have been writing novels for the past ten years. This anthology of short stories about friendship is my twelfth book.
What is the name of your latest book and what inspired it?
Friendship is the Solution
I have been writing novels. Not that I could ever come within miles to be able to touch their literary pens or quills, but I began thinking of famous authors who, along the way, had a collection of short stories as part of their repertoires. I researched some famous ones in particular; classic tales that through my own schooling in literature I read for class or pleasure: Hawthorn (The Birth-Mark), Poe (Tell-Tale Heart), Irving (The Legend of Sleepy Hollow) and the one that so many of us like to reread at Christmas time (The Gift of the Magi by O.Henry.)
Bottom line, I thought it would be fun … and different.
Do you have any unusual writing habits?
I write best with music playing … all types, 60’s, instrumental, pop.
What authors, or books have influenced you?
Nicolas Sparks. I met him at a book signing a few years ago. My genre matches his for the most part.
What are you working on now?
If my anthology of short stories goes well, I mad do a second collection on a different theme.
What is your best method or website when it comes to promoting your books?
My devoted band of readers
Do you have any advice for new authors?
Enjoy your writing. Getting it down on paper first and then worry about cleaning it up and making it flow better.
What is the best advice you have ever heard?
Be myself in my writing.
What are you reading now?
Spare … about Prince Harry. Not a novel.
What’s next for you as a writer?
Enjoy writing more.