Tell us about yourself and how many books you have written.
This is my first book – although I have been writing editorials for Eastern Massachusetts newspapers since 2009. I have currently accumulated about three volumes worth of slice of life essays, opinion pieces and human interest stories and this volume represents my earliest work. I finally decided to publish a compilation based on the advice of one of my previous editors.
What is the name of your latest book and what inspired it?
This book is called “My Thoughts Exactly,” and the pieces within were inspired by the good that exists in the world. Tired of all the negative headlines, I decided to create stories that emphasized the positive in the world.
Do you have any unusual writing habits?
I edit each story no less than a dozen times in order to assure that each word is exactly the right one. My first (and best) editor once told me that “It’s not about choosing the biggest word, it’s about choosing the best word.”
What authors, or books have influenced you?
Steve Hartman, Daryn Kagan, writers who can relate a story.
What are you working on now?
Volume 2 of My Thoughts Exactly. More inspiring stories to come!
What is your best method or website when it comes to promoting your books?
Still looking for the perfect one!
Do you have any advice for new authors?
Well, since I’m very new, I figure it’s best that I be the one taking the advice at the moment.
What is the best advice you have ever heard?
“It’s not about choosing the biggest word, it’s about choosing the best word.”
What are you reading now?
I just finished “What Made Maddy Run,” by Kate Fagan – a beautiful and tragic account of a high school All-American runner and the demons she faced at an Ivy League School. I just started “Murder in Music City,” by Michael Bishop.
What’s next for you as a writer?
I will continue observing the world around me and express my thoughts in my words.
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