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This interview has been viewed 797 times.

Interview with Albert B Ulrich III

Published 2014-02-12.
What's the story behind your latest book?
I've been in the saltwater aquarium hobby for a number of years now, but I set out to write a book that would have helped me when I had first started out. A lot of the books out there are written with an academic tone--and I wanted to write something that everyone could benefit from.
What motivated you to become an indie author?
It's really easy to publish these days. I had no idea if what I wrote was any good or if it would even make it past an editor (I do have a quirky style)--so rather than send it out to be considered by traditional publishing I decided to go indie.
How has Smashwords contributed to your success?
Smashwords made it super-easy for me to publish my work. You helped me publish on channels I didn't even know existed with the click of a button.
What is the greatest joy of writing for you?
This may sound cheesy--but I get the most joy when someone emails me to say, "thanks," or "I enjoyed that," or even with just a question about a problem they're having with their own saltwater aquarium. To think that something I wrote made an impact on them floors me every time.
What do your fans mean to you?
I'll let you know when I get one :). Seriously though, I thrive on the feedback and engagement with readers. Having someone read and (hopefully) appreciate something I wrote is one of the best feelings I've ever had. I hope it happens again. Thanks, Mom.
What are you working on next?
This question reminds me of the Underpants Gnomes skit on SouthPark. It's slightly edgy, so don't google it if you're timid about underwear topics--but if not--google it, it's funny...

But now allow me to try to answer that seriously: I'm actually working on my next book. I'd love to finish it up and release soon.
Who are your favorite authors?
In the saltwater aquarium space my favorite books were written by Anthony Calfo (The book of coral propagation), Joyce Wilkerson (Clownfishes) and Matthew L. Wittenrich (The Complete Illustrated Breeder's Guide to Marine Aquarium Fishes). If you don't already own those books, you should.
What inspires you to get out of bed each day?
The alarm clock. Without it, I likely wouldn't.
When you're not writing, how do you spend your time?
Doing things besides writing. That much seems obvious. I considered responding...I spend it one second at a time...but I like my first answer better.

ALSO, I work a lot. I have a day job. I dream of the day when I can write for a living. When I'm not doing either of those things, I'm spending time with my wife and three daughters.
How do you discover the ebooks you read?
I tend to browse the 'top' listings and find something that looks interesting.
Do you remember the first story you ever wrote?
Yes. It's actually a pretty terrible story I wrote for my kids called the Button Jar, never published. Some days I think about putting it out there--but then I change my mind.
What is your writing process?
I write at night, after work and after the kids go to bed. I get in my chair and type. Usually don't have a plan--just type.
Do you remember the first story you ever read, and the impact it had on you?
no
How do you approach cover design?
I've used Fiverr a few times. I've done it myself a few times (that probably looks obvious to you...). Once I make enough money from writing I envision a world where I'll pay a proper amount for a cover.
What do you read for pleasure?
Steven King books
What is your e-reading device of choice?
Kindle Fire HD
What book marketing techniques have been most effective for you?
I'll let you know when I find an effective marketing technique
Describe your desk
It's brown, made of wood, rests on the floor in front of me when I write.
Where did you grow up, and how did this influence your writing?
Northeast Philadelphia--which means I think I'm ROCKY BALBOA from the movie ROCKY and eat cheesteaks all the time. It affects my view of reality and my cholesterol more than my writing.
When did you first start writing?
A couple of years ago to write a story for my kids.
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Books by This Author

How to Frag Corals: A Simple Guide to Coral Propagation and Coral Fragging for the Marine Reef Aquarium by
Price: $9.97 USD. Words: 35,860. Language: English. Published: January 20, 2015 . Categories: Nonfiction » Home & Garden » Pets & livestock » Fish, Nonfiction » Science & Nature » Life Sciences / Marine Biology
How to Frag Corals: A Simple Guide to Coral Propagation and Coral Fragging for the Marine Reef Aquarium Hobbyist is a great book for coral aquarium hobbyists interested in learning how to frag corals for fun or for profit.
The New Saltwater Aquarium Guide: How to Care for and Keep Marine Fish and Corals by
Price: $9.97 USD. Words: 30,020. Language: English. Published: April 11, 2014 . Categories: Nonfiction » Home & Garden » Pets & livestock » Fish
The book will help you make important decisions like: What type of tank is right for you? What size should you buy? What equipment is necessary and what equipment is optional? What kind of testing is necessary and what science do you need to know? What are the best corals and fish to start with? How do you set up a tank? What can you expect to happen once you do?
Avoid the 5 Most Common Saltwater Aquarium Mistakes by
Price: Free! Words: 4,010. Language: English. Published: February 8, 2014 . Categories: Nonfiction » Home & Garden » Pets & livestock » Fish, Nonfiction » Home & Garden » Pets & livestock » General
Avoid the 5 Most Common Saltwater Aquarium Mistakes Are you thinking about setting up a saltwater aquarium but don’t know where to start? Or maybe you already have a reef aquarium and you are wondering if you have already made one of these mistakes? I have been an aquarium hobbyist (freshwater and saltwater) for over 25 years and have made every mistake in the book (well at least this book).