Tell us about yourself and how many books you have written.
Michael Overa was born and raised in the Pacific Northwest. After working as a writer-in-resident with Seattle’s Writers In the Schools (WITS) program, Michael transitioned to teaching composition at Shoreline Community College and Edmonds College. As a short story writer, Michael has published two collections of short stories, This Endless Road and The Filled In Spaces (both published by Unsolicited Press). He is currently at work on his first novel, Ain’t No Way Home. His stories have been published in The Portland Review, The Heartland Review, Crosscurrents, and East Bay Review, among others.
What is the name of your latest book and what inspired it?
My most recent book is a collection of inter-connected short stories called “This Endless Road.” I’ve always enjoyed road trips and stopping in small out-of-the-way places. I enjoy imagining what it might be like to live in different places, even if I’m only passing through.
Do you have any unusual writing habits?
I spend a lot of time thinking about stories before I start writing. Often, new story ideas begin while I’m suffering a bout of insomnia. Lying in bed, I begin to tell myself stories. I might create and recreate stories for a week or so before I put pen to paper.
What authors, or books have influenced you?
Don Delillo’s book “The Body Artist” is one that I re-read on a regular basis, about once a year. I also enjoy a good deal of magic realism, although I rarely write it. Borges, Marquez, and Cortezar are regular sources of inspiration.
What are you working on now?
At present, I’m working on a novel about the 1990s music scene. I’m dating myself here, but I grew up in that music scene, and I have a good amount of nostalgia for the music and passion and creativity that young people brought to the city.
What is your best method or website when it comes to promoting your books?
I’m always curious about finding new sources and methods for promoting books. I find that the best method is simply getting out and submitting work. I may be a curmudgeon, but I’m not very active on social media, so it’s not my regular go-to.
Do you have any advice for new authors?
Write. Write. Write. And then, drink coffee, read some books, and spend some time alone with your own thoughts.
What is the best advice you have ever heard?
Writing, like life, is not a competition. You’re not in competition with other writers. Do your work to the best of your ability.
What are you reading now?
I listen to a lot of audiobooks these days because I read a good deal as a writing instructor. Right now I’ve been listening to David Copperfield. I just finished White Fragility.
What’s next for you as a writer?
I think the next thing is usually the same: keep writing. I’m working through the third draft of the novel and looking forward to finding an agent. As someone who has published through a small press (Unsolicited Press), in the past, I’ve really loved the autonomy and agency that I’ve had. However, I would like to step up to the next level with the novel.
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?
Delillo’s “The Body Artist” for sure. Pirsig’s “Zen and the Art of Motorcycle Maintenance.” Harari’s “Sapiens” and a book about how to survive on a desert island.