Interview With Author Walker Larson
Tell us about yourself and how many books you have written.
I am a writer of literary thrillers and YA sci-fi/fantasy books. So far, I have two full-length novels under my belt. I love stories that are both exciting and philosophical, moving and thought-provoking, tales that tap into the universal human experience–while delivering a thrilling ride along the way. As a reader, I yearn for the kind of book that is un-put-downable, and then, at the end, when you finally do put it down, you just sit there for a long time, quietly, and filled with wonder.
I’ve been writing ever since I first scribbled a knock-off of The Lord of the Rings at the age of eight called The Jewll (I couldn’t spell very well). It was about a “hobbit-like creature” who had to destroy a magical jewel to prevent the world being consumed in fire.
I went to college for writing and then got an MA in English literature and language. When not penning novels, I write articles about literature, culture, and education. I live in Wisconsin with my wife, baby, a dog named Daidy, and a cow named Helga.
What is the name of your latest book and what inspired it?
My latest books is “Hologram,” and it was inspired by the increasing relevancy of virtual reality as well as the dangers that it poses. I’m interested in the idea that entering virtual realities disconnects you from the real reality and from other human beings. I think we have to be careful about our relationship with technology.
I also wanted to write something with lots of adventure and a military backdrop, but still with strong character development and literary prose.
Do you have any unusual writing habits?
Not really. I write when I get the chance, which is pretty random times of day since I also work as a teacher.
What authors, or books have influenced you?
Lloyd Alexander, especially the Chronicles of Prydain. J.R.R. Tolkien, C.S. Lewis. Graham Greene. Michael O’Brien. Cormac McCarthy. The Hunger Games by Suzanne Collins.
What are you working on now?
A comic book script, soon to be followed by the sequel to Hologram. I am also always working on nonfiction articles.
What is your best method or website when it comes to promoting your books?
Still figuring that out…
Do you have any advice for new authors?
Be disciplined. Be patient. Try to write every day. Develop a thick skin.
What is the best advice you have ever heard?
One that sticks with me from a writing teacher in college was this: “Don’t think, dream.” That’s a good description of the feeling when you get in the flow of writing.
What are you reading now?
In between books, but I just finished a novel by Wendell Berry.
What’s next for you as a writer?
Finishing my current trilogy!
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?
The Lord of the Rings, Idylls of the King, Crime and Punishment (for fiction, anyway).
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