Interview with Robert DeFinis, Ed.D.
Published 2020-04-12.
Do you remember the first story you ever read, and the impact it had on you?
I know I always loved Dr. Seuss. So this would be my earliest reading memory. This was before they started to make his work into movies. You would read the story and enjoy his wild imagination. He wasn’t concerned so much with rules and structure. He made reading fun and wild!
But the first book I read that impacted me was “Where the Sidewalk Ends”, by Shel Silverstein. It was a book that I remember I could never put down. Every page gave you something new and creative. I would say that sparked my enjoyment of reading.
Describe your desk
Order. Yes, it is completely in order. I need to know where things are. This isn’t to say I don’t get a little messy. When you are in your creative space, I think it’s important to keep the juices flowing and not worry if you have paper and pens all over the place.
Where did you grow up, and how did this influence your writing?
I grew up in a suburb, outside of the City of Philadelphia. I think from an influence perspective, it has definitely shaped me. I think this is true for anyone. The world is a pretty big place, and our lens can be very unique. I also think that this is important. We should all share our experiences and the uniqueness of how our environments helped create who we are.
What's the story behind your latest book?
“How to Defeat the Icky, Filthy, Creepy, Slimy CORONA MONSTER!,” really came about after I was searching for how to talk about what was going on with the coronavirus with my children. It seemed like everything was happening so quickly with cancellations, food and product shortages, restricting travel and so on, that I really wanted to create some way to explain how we need to stay healthy and safe. I think with children they respond to narrative and story telling. So that how it came to be.
What is the greatest joy of writing for you?
I think everyone should write. Writing has many therapeutic qualities. Most of my writing has been on the business and educational side of the spectrum. Honestly, after I wrote my dissertation I had to take a little time off. That type of writing is very intense. But in the recent years, I’ve been slowly getting back into it. My current writing projects include helping children understand contemporary issues, and I also have a series coming out about learning how to play sports and sportsmanship.
You said you have a series coming out? Can you tell us more?
I’m working on a four part series about twin brothers that try new sports. They are complete opposites, but they try new things together and support each other The book is for children and parents to help expose them to new sports and activities that they might not have considered. Each story provides lessons on decision making, being a good teammate, trust and skill development.
When you're not writing, how do you spend your time?
When I’m not writing, I’m usually focused on my business, coaching and spending time with my children. Being a father is my number one priority and provides me the most enjoyment!
What is your writing process?
My thinking and writing are pretty structured. I normally stay with the following process when I have an idea or project.
Brainstorm
Research
Write
Cool Off (I think the most important)
Revise
Proof
Peer Review
What motivated you to become an indie author?
My goal is to get my work in the hands of readers. I feel being an independent author allows me the flexibility to create a space for that.
How do you approach illustration?
Only recently I have started to get into graphic and design. For me the fun part is the initial concept, and then the ability to keep working and fine-tuning it to get it where you want.
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