Interview With Author Kevin O’Connor
Tell us about yourself and how many books you have written.
“Two Floors Above Grief” is my first published book. I wrote a dissertation published in 1999.
My career spans over fifty years as a writer, teacher, principal, curriculum designer, and university instructor. He authors content and provides training in areas including mathematics instruction, principal leadership, support for substitute teachers, LGBTQ advocacy, Sexual Health/Family Life, self-publishing, and marketing. He sings and performs in theaters. He is active with SMART Ride, a bicycling
group that raises funds for HIV awareness, treatment, and education. He resides in Ft. Lauderdale with his husband, Leon. Their family includes five sons and seven granddaughters.
What is the name of your latest book and what inspired it?
“Two Floors Above Grief: A Memoir of Two Families in the Unique Place We Called Home” was inspired by my stories about growing up as the son and nephew of two undertakers and their wives. The inspiration is extended and enriched by 700+ handwritten and typed letters from the 1930s-’70s by the family members. The authenticity of these letters provides first-hand characterizations of those individuals portrayed in the book.
Do you have any unusual writing habits?
I tend to write extensive drafts that are then culled into texts ready to read from a qualitative and reasonably quantifiable perspective.
What authors, or books have influenced you?
Hemingway, Salinger, Fitzgerald, Shakespeare, Steve Martin, Evan Fallenberg, Steven King, John Grisham, Steinbeck
What are you working on now?
I am working on a second book in a series started by the first book. The second book focused on trips, vacations, and excursions taken by the funeral directors’ families from the 1940s through the 70s.
What is your best method or website when it comes to promoting your books?
I promote through social media platforms like Facebook, Instagram, and LinkedIn. I published a weekly newsletter to 1600 recipients who have expressed an interest in or have read the book. My website also provides information. www.kevinoconnorauthor.com
Do you have any advice for new authors?
Get started and continue. Develop a routine. Keep writing even when you think the words are coming from nowhere and going nowhere. These words will provide the drafts on which your book will evolve and be published. Allow only positive feedback to yourself. Keep affirming your writing and letting yourself know that there are few who, like you, accomplish the goal of writing and publishing a book.
What is the best advice you have ever heard?
Let your words flow.
What are you reading now?
I am reading the script and libretto for “Crazy for You.” I am in a production that will be presented in late August.
What’s next for you as a writer?
The second book. And then a third and more. I plan to write for Medium or another writing vehicle.
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?
Chicken Soup for the Soul Books
Night Fell by Evan Fallenberg
Classroom Lightbulbs by Perry Binder
Author Websites and Profiles
Kevin O’Connor’s Social Media Links