Interview with Friendly Oaks Publications
Published 2015-07-13.
Describe your desk
It's pretty cluttered; lots of projects lying around.
Where did you grow up, and how did this influence your writing?
I grew up mostly in south Texas. Where I live didn't do that much to influence my writing, as I have enjoyed writing since my first fountain pen in elementry school. As of the last several years, I've actually enjoyed the challenge of seeing a piece of writing and working with it to make it better.
When did you first start writing?
When my teacher turned me loose with my first fountain pen in elementary school. It was a maroon Esterbrook with Skript Ink, washable blue. My dad helped me pick it out at the drug store. I've been hooked on writing ever since.
What's the story behind your latest book?
The first book (a small one) I will publish with Smashwords came from an epiphany experience I had in 2007. It was an experience that affected me strongly both personally and professionally; I share about it in this book. I am a former language arts teacher and a child and adolescent psychologist. Most of the stories of my books deal with helping young people that struggle. That's a really big story.
What motivated you to become an indie author?
It's difficult for a new author to get published, plus I wanted to actually start a full-service publishing company. That's exactly what I did. My motivation was quicker time from manuscript to book and, obviously, a bigger share of the money. It's been a good ride.
How has Smashwords contributed to your success?
We are still working on that one, but I am impressed, very impressed, with the way Mark Coker thinks and conducts business. I see good things down the road.
What is the greatest joy of writing for you?
Seeing it in print and getting good comments about it.
What do your fans mean to you?
The are a blessing to me.
What are you working on next?
A couple of more books for Smashbooks. I have a ton of guides I have written, plus resource handbooks. All of these are great material for e-publication.
Who are your favorite authors?
The ones that are really good.
What inspires you to get out of bed each day?
The projects I have lined up and the plans I have for more of them. I get a real lift from meeting deadlines I set and seeing the progress that was made.
When you're not writing, how do you spend your time?
Several things. I own a couple of small business that are doing well, and I enjoy music. I've been playing guitar for over 50 years. I also enjoy the life my wife and I have with our small church.
How do you discover the ebooks you read?
When I got a Kindle Fire for Father's Day a number of years ago.
Do you remember the first story you ever wrote?
Not really. It probably wasn't that good, anyway.
What is your e-reading device of choice?
Right now, it's my Kindle Fire. My wife has the newer one, the HD.
Smashwords Interviews are created by the profiled author or publisher.
