Tell us about yourself and how many books you have written.
I’ve written and published twenty-two books (including compiling three multiple-author anthologies.) Fifteen are children’s picture books, and the rest are for grown-ups and are short stories in various genres of fiction and non-fiction, plus poetry.
What is the name of your latest book and what inspired it?
The title of my latest book is Kaleidoscope. It’s an eclectic mix of mostly upbeat poetry. I enjoy writing poetry. This is my book that exclusively features my poetry.
Do you have any unusual writing habits?
Many of my stories first come to me as dreams and while my brain is focused on something completely unrelated. I’ve learned to drop everything and quickly capture as much as I can because creative thoughts often explode out of me as the water in a firehose. I typically write and publish several books in clusters and then take weeks or months off to focus on other things.
What authors, or books have influenced you?
Children’s books: Dr. Seuss
Fiction: Alister Maclean
What are you working on now?
“The Beach that Love Built” is an inspiring children’s picture book that is a true story of events that had a big impact on the lives of my daughter and family. It will be released by July 15, 2016.
What is your best method or website when it comes to promoting your books?
I’ve only recently begun promoting my books and I’m experimenting with several possibilities.
Do you have any advice for new authors?
Write from your heart. Use Beta Readers and publishing pros. Use a strong editor. Donn’t skimp on cover design. Do it for the love of writing and the adventure of it all rather than focusing primarily on how many copies you old and/or how much money you’ve made. Have fun! Experiment.
What is the best advice you have ever heard?
Anything not done with love is a wasted opportunity.
What are you reading now?
The Legend of Stuckey’s Bridge by Lori Crane.
What’s next for you as a writer?
I follow where my muse leads. It’s always an adventure. Part of the fun is never knowing what’s just around the next bend in the creative river.
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’d bring books on how to fish in the ocean, edible plants likely to be found in that part of the world, and how to build fires, boats, and living structure from things that are likely to be found on such islands. I’d also bring plenty of paper and writing implements so I can continue writing stories and using my imagination.
Author Websites and Profiles
Russ Towne Website
Russ Towne Amazon Profile