Tell us about yourself and how many books you have written.
Though Wall Street Kitchen is the first book I’ve authored, I’ve written articles for many others and guest posted on top finance blogs including Barbara Friedberg’s at barbarafriedbergpersonalfinance.com.
What is the name of your latest book and what inspired it?
The name of my book is Wall Street Kitchen: The Recipe Behind a Housewife’s 1000% Stock Return. The book was inspired by my mother’s success in the stock market. In the book I share her ‘recipe’ on how you too can become a successful stock market investor without initially having a lot of money, a post-secondary education, or any sort of financial background.
Do you have any unusual writing habits?
Habit, yes. Unusual, depends on who you ask, haha. One particular thing I do is after an hour or so of working, I tend to get up and pace around my room for a few minutes before resuming my work. I’ve always done this and it gives me a little time to clear my writer’s/workers block. If I’m severely stuck on a problem, I’ll actually leave the home to take a short stroll outside. You should try it, it works.
What authors, or books have influenced you?
Gosh, I have many authors I admire, but on the topic of investing self-help, Benjamin Graham immediately comes to mind for his investing fundamentals. Joel Greenblatt for his practical approach to investing, and Robert Kiyosaki for his ability to breakdown complex notions of investing and having it expressed into his simplistic writing style.
What are you working on now?
I just finished working with Daniel Greenberg on the Audiobook, and I’m starting to work on a smartphone downloadable stock-tracking application that will integrate the investing principles in my book. Its intention is to help you become a more informed, savvy investor. The application will be the first one of its kind!
What is your best method or website when it comes to promoting your books?
Word of mouth, word of mouth, word of mouth. There is nothing more effective and gratifying than promoting your own book by connecting with people face to face – words alone can only go so far.
Do you have any advice for new authors?
Writing a book can be a daunting task. Think about everything that you have and use all the resources you have to their fullest extent. Have a clear picture of what you want your readers to experience about your book and bravely move forward to pursue that picture without hesitation. Do something each day towards the creation of your book no matter how insignificant that thing may be.
What is the best advice you have ever heard?
Have a vision of what you want and then find others to work with who are just as crazy as you.
What are you reading now?
The Science of Getting Rich by Wallace Wattles.
What’s next for you as a writer?
Material for my stock market app.
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?
Bear Grylls Survival Skills
Bear Grylls How to Stay Alive
Bear Grylls Mud Sweat and Tears
Bear Grylls The Desert Challenge
Author Websites and Profiles
Victor Chiu Website
Victor Chiu Amazon Profile
Victor Chiu’s Social Media Links
Goodreads Profile
Facebook Profile
Twitter Account