Tell us about yourself and how many books you have written.
I was raised in northern England where I played professional soccer before moving to the United States and attending Penn State University. It was here that I wrote my first book on soccer, published by Simon Schuster. I now live in Denver, Colorado and travel around the country speaking about my second book.
What is the name of your latest book and what inspired it?
Life’s Too Short for Leftovers – 9 Lessons from a Third World Kitchen.
Having spent time in Africa I have experienced many facets of the culture and life of these wonderful people who are experiencing immense hardship. I believe we can learn much from them and wanted to document such as a storyteller. It is part inspirational rallying call, part first-person, autobiographical narrative and part eulogy for a treasured friend and mentor. It is a highly personal journey of self-discovery. With my conversational style I attempt to relate timeless philosophies to contemporary challenges and opportunities that face Third World countries today. I bring a generous portion of lucid insights and aha moments to the table, leading the charge toward improved, positive outcomes – in our own lives and in the lives of others.
Do you have any unusual writing habits?
Nothing that unusual other than handwriting everything on paper first, after 4 cups of coffee every morning. Once that high is relinquished I take a 30 minute power nap and then go over everything again in a more soothing and thought provoking manner.
What authors, or books have influenced you?
On a spiritual front, Rumi and Ruiz and for recreational reading, James Herriot. Many books have brought me to literary watersheds in my life that have forged an identity for me with my subject matter. Bill Shore – The Cathedral Within along with Richard Dowden – Africa and William Easterly – The White Man’s Burden.
What are you working on now?
I am working on more speaking engagements around the country and planning my next trip to Ethiopia to spend time with the children at Project Mercy.
What is your best method or website when it comes to promoting your books?
www.MichaelDitchfield.com
Here you will find everything you need to know and you can re-live my time in Africa through the videos from the trips I have made.
Do you have any advice for new authors?
Begin…..with the first step and the first word
What is the best advice you have ever heard?
Don’t prove others wrong, instead prove yourself right
What are you reading now?
My own book. I never got the time to read it during the past 5 years.
What’s next for you as a writer?
I want to branch out to other areas of the world to see how much duplication there is both good and bad, that mirrors what Africa holds in it’s hand today.
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?
Shake Hands With The Devil
We wish to inform you that tomorrow we will be killed with our families
Stellaluna
Oh, the Places You’ll Go
Author Websites and Profiles
Michael Ditchfield Website
Michael Ditchfield Amazon Profile