Interview with Gari Saroyan

Published 2018-02-28.
How do you approach cover design?
I think about what my tale is about and try to create a design that will give my readers an idea of what to expect.
Do you remember the first story you ever read, and the impact it had on you?
The first story I ever read was The Cat in the Hat, by Dr. Seuss. Yes, I was a child; this didn't happen a couple of years ago lol. Reading that book made me realize that I never wanted to stop reading. This, eventually led to writing. The first book as an adult which had an impact on me was Salem's Lot, by Stephen King. This one was the one which got me writing. I said to myself, if this man has the nerve to write about things that go bump in the dark, then I guess I'll give it a go as well.
What are your five favorite books, and why?
Any book by Stephen King is a favorite of mine because he writes as though he's talking to his readers. Reading his books is almost like sitting around a campfire with him, and listening to his tales first hand. I also enjoy fantasy books such as Lord of the Rings, and anything to do with Arthur Pendragon and Merlin, because I'm such a Medieval creature.
What's the story behind your latest book?
My latest release is "Demon," which was released back in 2003 as a paperback, but I have republished it as an eBook because my readers have been asking for it, and it is no longer available in paperback. "Demon" is based on true events.
What motivated you to become an indie author?
After trying endlessly to find someone who would be interested in publishing my books, to no avail, I decided to do it myself. I am content with the results. However, if at some point I am finally offered a publishing deal, I can't say that I would be opposed to it.
What is the greatest joy of writing for you?
Getting feedback from my readers that they have truly enjoyed what I have written. I am dyslexic, and writing is not as easy for me as it may be for some. Emptying my mind into pages, and sharing with others what I have created, gives me great joy. Knowing that I haven't done it for nothing, and that my tales bring others pleasure, is the greatest joy.
What do your fans mean to you?
I don't really call them "fans." I like to refer to them as my readers. The word "fans" scares me a little. It comes from the word "fanatics," and though not all fanatics are crazed, I have had the misfortune of having to deal with a couple of crazy ones. So, "readers," and not "fans." What do they mean to me? Everything! Because, without them, I would not be able to share my writing.
What are you working on next?
I'm currently working on "13 Disturbing Little Tales," which is a compilation of stories. It will be released in March 2018. I'm also working on "Secret Identity," my first spy fiction thriller, and "Masters," which is a tale of horror.
What inspires you to get out of bed each day?
I look forward each day to speaking to my daughter, who recently moved away to Georgia. I miss her because this is the first time we've been apart :) Also, each morning, my cat sits on my face until I wake up, get up, and feed her. I'm not sure this one is an inspiration, though. More like a feline demand.
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