Tell us about yourself and how many books you have written.
I am a retired obstetrician and gynecologist. Born, raised and educated in Belgium and immigrated to the US after obtaining my MD degree. People have often asked me about my experiences growing up in Belgium during the Nazi occupation. I have had many anecdotes to tell them, some sad, some funny and some exciting.
Many of my friends and colleagues have often encouraged me to write a book about my experiences. I always did pooh-poohed that idea as my book would be written in a a bit light hearted tone, on the background of a lot of suffering, atrocities and hardship. I thought that such a perspective might not be well received.
I finally relented and wrote about my experiences after my friends convinced me that the educated reader would be able to discern the protected environment this young boy, which is me, grew up in amidst the turmoil. Well here it is. You, the reader, are the judge.
The book is an e book available for free downloading from Smashwords.
What is the name of your latest book and what inspired it?
Since I retired from clinical practice, I have written 3 books. The first one is about my career, which, to say the least, has been quite unorthodox. Again I resisted writing the book as I thought that not many people would be interested but my friends, family and colleagues finally convinced me that it was going to be worth while. And it has been. The title of the ebook is: “CROSSCULTURAL DOCTORING. ON AND OFF THE BEATEN PATH.” It also is available for free downloading from Smashwords.
The second book is the one described earlier above about World War II. And the third and last book is entitled : “THE ROMAN CATHOLIC CHURCH AND FAMILY PLANNING. TIME FOR A CHANGE” also available for free downloading from Smashword.
I did not need to be convinced by any one to write this one. The issue of the use of effective contraception by Catholics has been on my mind since I started practicing obstetrics and gynecology. I have always felt that the profound pressure by the Catholic Church on its members, to use only natural family planning, is ill founded and needs a change.
In writing this book, I am fully aware that I will be exposed to high powered rebuke by very learned followers of the Catholic Doctrine, but I have written this book not fro a theological perch but from the viewpoint and experiences of a practicing gynecologist.
Do you have any unusual writing habits?
No, I just sit in front of the computer and start typing. I have realized that starting a book is hard, but once into it it seems to flow spontaneously and I enjoy it. I constantly check with my wife and ask her what she thinks and, what I have forgotten and what I tell poorly.
The reason I have made all three books available as e books, rather than hard copy, is that I have found Smashwords a very easy to use and practical free (I have no extra money to spend) method for getting published. The reason that I make the books available for free downloading is that I am not out to make money and have identified worthwhile recipients of a possible donation (no obligation) in lieu of a downloading fee.
What authors, or books have influenced you?
None specifically, although Hemingway has been my favored.
What are you working on now?
Trying to get my three books more publicity.That is harder and more expensive than writing and publishing.
What is your best method or website when it comes to promoting your books?
I am trying to find out.
Do you have any advice for new authors?
Follow your passion, listen to your friends, family and colleagues and get started. Just do it. Inspiration comes while you are at it.
What is the best advice you have ever heard?
Follow your passion.
What are you reading now?
Salmon Rushdie: The Golden House.
What’s next for you as a writer?
Do not know yet. May be nothing.
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 want to read again “The old man and the Sea”, “For Whom the Bell Tolls” and “A Farewell to Arms” by Ernest Hemingway; and also “Jonathan Livingston Seagull” by Richard Bach.
Author Websites and Profiles
William LeMaire Author Profile on Smashwords