Tell us about yourself and how many books you have written.
I am in my mid-40’s, married, with two kids. The stories that I would tell them as kids is the genesis of the “The Absurd Adventures of Monkey, Puppy, and Lion” (MPL) series of books. I have written about 5 books total: four from the MPL series, and a book of poetry for my wife. Without her love an support, I really wouldn’t get anything done!
What is the name of your latest book and what inspired it?
The latest book is “The Day of the Summertime Blues” which is from the MPL series of books. I think it is the fourth in the seines. The third was released about two years and about four months ago. I’ve been working on other projects, raising the kids, working on the “Honey Do” list, so my writing time has been reduced significantly.
Do you have any unusual writing habits?
I don’t write in a linear fashion. I write up a scene from one part of the book, then randomly switch to another scene which may not fit the current narrative. At the end, I take out the scene’s that do not fit and add them to “purgatory” for future projects.
What authors, or books have influenced you?
Jack Kerouac’s rambling style in: On The Road, Big Sur
Kurt Vonnegut – Cat’s Cradle, Slaughterhouse Five
What are you working on now?
Right now, I am working on my first novella called, “John, Henry, and the Digital Divide”. Henry is a retired from the EPA after thirty years. He was married to Vivicia, who worked in computers, and did the bill paying and things that dealt with a computer. After her passing, Henry isolated himself from everyone. John (Henry’s son) works a retail job, but is up on the latest technology. When he receives an offer to buy a computer at work, he takes it, and gives it to his Dad. John is hoping that by sitting down with his Dad he can: 1) teach his Dad how to use a computer to be more self sufficient, 2) get his Dad on social media and re-connect him with the world. The world is a much different place than even five years ago as staff for call centers are being reduced and people have to use a computer to get answers. Imagine what the world will be like five years from now? That is what John is looking at. If his Dad can’t use e-mail or look for a webpage, then he will be more isolated. John is trying to cross the “Digital Divide” to help his Dad escape a path to isolationism.
What is your best method or website when it comes to promoting your books?
I have found that my own website / blog is the best way to do a book promotion. The website / blog is the source where everything is written, then all of the other sites (Twitter, Facebook, etc) read from there
Do you have any advice for new authors?
Just keep writing and don’t look back!
What is the best advice you have ever heard?
“If the women don’t find you handsome, at least they find you handy.” – Red Green
What are you reading now?
Nothing! Right now, I am working on promoting the current items as well as getting the forthcoming audio book for “The Day of the Flying Pot Roast” into people hands.
What’s next for you as a writer?
Finish the novella in late 2017 / early 2018, work with the voice-over person to get the MPL series onto Audible, Amazon and iTunes, and write new material.
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?
Jack Kerouac – On The Road
H.G. Wells – Around the World in 80 Days
Kurt Vonnegut – Slaughterhouse Five
Charles Bukowski – Post Office
Author Websites and Profiles
Nick Stockton Website
Nick Stockton Amazon Profile
Nick Stockton’s Social Media Links
Goodreads Profile
Twitter Account