Tell us about yourself and how many books you have written.
I am a neuroscientist, PhD, and I worked for three years at the neurosurgical hospital. Based on my experience, I am writing this book series. At this moment I am working in two institutions: in Russia and Germany.
At this moment I published one non-fiction book on social neuroscience “Social brain: user manual” in Russian with Alpina Non-Fiction Publishing House (2021) and self-published a first short story collection “Now Repeat After Me”. It is only the first one in the series “Stories from the neurosurgical hospital”.
What is the name of your latest book and what inspired it?
“Now Repeat After Me” is the latest one of my books. It was one of the distinct features I noticed in my patients’ behaviour. When the particular brain areas are damaged, it is much easier to complete any task by following the precise instructions or even repeat the smallest movement and action right after the person who is instructing them.
Do you have any unusual writing habits?
I like writing when I have some white noise in the background: even if the radio or TV is on, it keeps me focused on what I am writing right now.
What authors, or books have influenced you?
“Do no harm” by Henri Marsh, “The language of kindness. A Nurse’s story” by Christie Watson and “Just one more question. Stories from a Life in Neurology” by Niall Tubridy (i.e. medical non-fiction, popular science).
What are you working on now?
Now I am working at the series “Stories from the neurosurgical hospital”. “Now Repeat After Me” was the first short collection of the stories, and I want to continue it, especially if it grabs the audience’s interest.
What is your best method or website when it comes to promoting your books?
I could not recommend anything at this moment 🙂
Do you have any advice for new authors?
You have to be patient and not being easily disappointed when it comes to even self-publishing your book. Moreover, all kind of problems the publishing house does for you when you submit the book to them, now is your responsibility. To promote, get reviews, finding the target audience.
What is the best advice you have ever heard?
“It will pass”.
What are you reading now?
At this moment it is “Twas the Nightshift Before Christmas” by Adam Kay.
What’s next for you as a writer?
If the first book in the series will go well, I would definitely continue the publication of “Stories from the neurosurgical hospital”.
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?
I would pick up the books by Arthur Hailey.
Author Websites and Profiles
Oksana Zinchenko Amazon Profile
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