Tell us about yourself and how many books you have written.
I’m a Brooklyn-born, second generation American and the eldest of three boys. My goals in life have always been modest and centered around my family — get the twins through college, have enough money to retire someday and live a good life along the way. Writing is my third career and the one about which I am most passionate. Following my graduation from the US Naval Academy and active duty in the Navy, I embarked on a career in business, initially in finance and later as an entrepreneur. Around 2000, I took my diverse business experience into consulting and executive coaching. I began writing my blog “Who Will Lead?” in 2010 attracting over 115,000 readers. It inspired me to write my first book (published by Motivational Press), a business fable titled “The Reluctant CEO: Succeeding Without Losing Your Soul.” I currently make my home in Fairport, NY, a village on the Erie Canal. My interest in artificial intelligence and its impact on society inspired me to write “The Awakening of Artemis.”
What is the name of your latest book and what inspired it?
I was inspired to write “The Awakening of Artemis” by the birth of my granddaughter in 2018. Emily Grace Calia is the first female in my bloodline in 90 years. What kind of world will she live in? What will be her outlook on life? What adventures will she undertake?
Do you have any unusual writing habits?
Unusual? No. Like many writers, I like to write first thing in the morning. And, I write until I run out of gas. That might take 2 hours or it might take 4.
What authors, or books have influenced you?
J. K. Rowling
Ann Patchett
Isabel Allende
Anthony Doerr
Kurt Vonnegut
What are you working on now?
I am outlining the sequel to The Awakening of Artemis. The working title is False Flag.
What is your best method or website when it comes to promoting your books?
There are several sites that focus on books and authors. Goodreads is probably the biggest of them. I also promote my books on Reedsy Discovery and, of course, Awesome Gang.
Do you have any advice for new authors?
I wish I did. My education is in economics and I spent my career in business. So, I am a new author myself. Anyone have any advice for me?
What is the best advice you have ever heard?
You can’t ask for anything better than an opportunity to fail.
What are you reading now?
Artemis by Andy Weir
What’s next for you as a writer?
The sequel to The Awakening of Artemis.
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 Glory and the Dream by William Manchester
The Collected Works of William Shakespeare
Slaughterhouse Five by Kurt Vonnegut
Author Websites and Profiles
John Calia Website
John Calia Amazon Profile
John Calia’s Social Media Links
Goodreads Profile
Facebook Profile
Twitter Account