Tell us about yourself and how many books you have written.
I’m 35 years old, married to a wonderful woman for the past 15 years. We have two children, 8 and 4, and live in Pennsylvania. I began writing short stories and poetry at a young age, and have always had the writing bug. When I was 12 yrs old, I wrote a short story called “My Life”. I wrote the story at a friend’s house, during a camp out. 20 some years later I found the story in an old box and decided it didn’t need a massive re-write! So 15 months ago I started writing “The Journal of a Lifetime”, which became a fresh re-write of “My Life”. I added 24 custom painted illustrations to the current story, hiring the help of my artist friend, Tony Maulfair. This book is my debut release and I’m really excited about it.
I’m currently working on book #2 which is called: “The Great Green Tree and the Magical Ladders”. This will be a full chapter book geared towards middle-grade readers. I’m currently on Chapter 9 of 15 in this book, slated for a 2016 release!
What is the name of your latest book and what inspired it?
“The Journal of a Lifetime” hard cover book is available now at www.stephenkozan.com
I’m currently working on book #2 which is called: “The Great Green Tree and the Magical Ladders”. This will be a full chapter book geared towards middle-grade readers. I’m currently on Chapter 9 of 15 in this book, slated for a 2016 release! It is loosely based on my daughter and the tree we have in our backyard. It involves talking bugs, life lessons and a magical ascension into this Great Green Tree!
Do you have any unusual writing habits?
I tend to write at my best during the nights. I HAVE to be on my computer on my Microsoft Word program. I don’t hand-write anything.
What authors, or books have influenced you?
To be truthful, there aren’t any particular authors that have influenced my writing or writing style. I respect ALL authors, and I love the creativity that every author brings to the table.
What are you working on now?
I just finished up my debut middle-grade children’s book (but suitable for adults) called “The Journal of a Lifetime”. That book is sold exclusively at www.stephenkozan.com
I am currently working on a chapter book for middle-grade readers called “The Great Green Tree and the Magical Ladders.”
What is your best method or website when it comes to promoting your books?
I have found that social media is the best way to get noticed. I have made so many new friends on Twitter and Facebook and I enjoy meeting new people through those avenues of exposure. I have also found that friends and family are good resources for exposure to your book projects.
Do you have any advice for new authors?
Yes. Never doubt yourself or your abilities to write and be SEEN. The internet and the publishing world has changed so much in the last 5-6 years. Don’t give up if a publisher dismisses your work. The self-publishing world is exciting and gives you the ability to learn how the industry works from the ground up. It’s a real grassroots effort, but you have all the control on how you will be seen and heard. Do not give up on yourself!
What is the best advice you have ever heard?
Never get too big with your career that you start to ignore or miss out on your family.
What are you reading now?
I am currently engrossed in The Tibetan Book of Living and Dying.
What’s next for you as a writer?
I’m currently working on a middle-grade chapter book called “The Great Green Tree and the Magical Ladders” which is loosely based on my 5 year old and the tree we have in our backyard.
I have an additional book on the back burner which is unofficially titled: Bob’s Basement.
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 bring Dante’s Inferno, Where the Red Fern Grows, The Tibetan Book of Living and Dying, and Stephen King’s “The Langoliers”
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