Tell us about yourself and how many books you have written.
I am a graduate of the Clarion West science fiction writing workshop and an active member of Science Fiction Writers of America. I have recently returned to the United States after living overseas for 35 years. I have published 25 books and about two dozen stories in magazines and anthologies. My books include novels, short story collections, and memoirs in numerous genres.
What is the name of your latest book and what inspired it?
My latest book is a novel called The Senescent Nomad. It’s about an aging writer who decides to abandon his apartment and set out on the road full time in a camper van after his kids have grown and gone. He meets fascinating people and has numerous adventures on his way to a science fiction convention to which he has been invited.
Do you have any unusual writing habits?
I don’t know. Is it unusual to write for long hours seven days a week? That’s what I do. I don’t let anything except family emergencies interfere with my writing.
What authors, or books have influenced you?
Jack London, Jack Kerouac, J.R.R. Tolkien, Harlan Ellison, Roger Zelazny
What are you working on now?
I’ve just finished a number of short stories and now I am working on a sequel to The Senescent Nomad.
What is your best method or website when it comes to promoting your books?
I learned from numerous mentors that the best method to promote your writing was to get busy on the next book. That’s what I do. I keep busy writing.
Do you have any advice for new authors?
Write whatever your voice tells you to write whether you think it will sell or not.
What is the best advice you have ever heard?
What I just said above. Write from your heart. Don’t focus on what you think will sell, but rather on what you have to say that no one else can say.
What are you reading now?
The Armageddon Rag by George R.R. Martin. A masterpiece from his pre-Game of Thrones days.
What’s next for you as a writer?
More writing.
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?
I don’t know. I have a few thousand favorites. It would be tough to trim them down.
Author Websites and Profiles
John Walters Website
John Walters Amazon Profile
John Walters Author Profile on Smashwords