Tell us about yourself and how many books you have written.
I have written numerous professional articles over the years. I have two novels out: Advancing on Chaos and A Second Chance at Dancing and a book of poetry. I practiced law for 34 years before retiring at the end of December 2017.
What is the name of your latest book and what inspired it?
A Second Chance at Dancing. The book is largely a memoir but because I moved the time from the early 80s to the early 90s and added a character to better set forth an issue that Caroline wrestled with. The inspiration was my friendship with Caroline and how she changed my life.
Do you have any unusual writing habits?
Not really. I tend to write every day and try to incorporate little known historical figures into my writing as I did in Advancing on Chaos. I think incorporating aspects of philosophy or theology for people to consider in a character is also important.
What authors, or books have influenced you?
Salinger, Baldwin, Bukowski and Brautigan
What are you working on now?
Two novels. The first hopefully has some humor and unique characters. One issue involved is the tension about being an artist and whether to create art one must “live the life.” The second book is a post civil war western that uses the despicable practice of arresting blacks in what was known as debt peonage, a modern form of slavery, as part of the story.
What is your best method or website when it comes to promoting your books?
my own website: http//:www.redhightoppress.com
Do you have any advice for new authors?
Keep writing and keep reading.
What is the best advice you have ever heard?
Create good characters and they will help write the story for you.
What are you reading now?
Baldwin’s Go Tell it on the Mountain (re-reading)
What’s next for you as a writer?
keep working on my next two novels
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?
Catcher in the Rye—J.D. Salinger
My name is Asher Lev—Chaim Potok
Big Bang–Simon Singh
Author Websites and Profiles
Michael Tusa Website
Michael Tusa Amazon Profile