Tell us about yourself and how many books you have written.
I have been a nonfiction author and communication specialist for four decades. My expertise is in researching and distilling complex topics and making them user friendly. I’ve written several books about starting an online business and about Connecticut communities. After the Newtown, Connecticut, elementary school shooting–in my home town–I published a book specifically for helping people in my community find needed services.
What is the name of your latest book and what inspired it?
My present book is The First Year of Hell: A Compendium of How Democratic Ideals Fared Against Trump Administration Threats in 2017. I realized that there was no way that anyone can keep up with all that transpired during President Trump’s first year. He promised to shake up the U.S. government and has done so through his own actions and those of others in the White House and cabinet.
Do you have any unusual writing habits?
I thoroughly read off- and online reputable sources–newspapers, books, reports–and glean the most important facts. This stage typically takes at least three to six months. I then confirm the accuracy of the information through additional sources. I completely rewrite the material in laymen’s terms, edit it and proof and reproof it for the final version.
What authors, or books have influenced you?
I am a very eclectic reader. At anytime, I am reading the latest nonfiction books, as well as mysteries, memoirs, novels and poetry. My main interest, in addition to entertainment and personal interest, is studying the author’s writing style and learning better ways to write my own prose. There is never an end to learning; it is a continual process throughout life–no matter what a person’s age.
What are you working on now?
After the shooting in Newtown, I recognized that few communities have plans that help those impacted handle short- and long-term trauma from natural and manmade disasters. Communities have emergency plans that provide medical support, but psychological help is a secondary concern or not considered at all. I am presently writing a book that provides communities with a step-by-step guide on how to develop a mental health intervention plan. This plan will be used in conjunction with the one for emergency medical care.
What is your best method or website when it comes to promoting your books?
Ironically, although I handled public relations and marketing for many organizations as a communications specialist, I never did my own promotion. It’s the shoemaker’s child that has no shoes syndrome. I am just starting to promote my books–about time!
Do you have any advice for new authors?
Write. Write. Write. Regardless if it is notes on napkins, journals, personal feelings, or part of a book. The more you write, the easier it will be to write more. And, the better your writing will be. Also, read all different types of fiction and nonfiction materials and keep track of what you learn from these writings. Join writing groups and provide other writers with feedback and accept their critiques with openness and appreciation.
What is the best advice you have ever heard?
Set a specific time to write everyday and keep to that writing schedule. Even if you only write a few words on some days, you are developing a positive habit.
What are you reading now?
I just attended and participated in a poetry reading event for poetry month, so I’ve been exploring new poets. It’s incredible how these artists can cover so much in just several lines. It shows writers how they have to continually edit, edit and edit down to the nitty gritty.
What’s next for you as a writer?
I am working on a website for my book on mental health. Once the book is published, I hope to become a speaker and write magazine articles on the topic of disaster trauma.
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?
Bartlett’s quotations, Best Short Stories of the Modern Age, The Best of American Poetry