Best of Family & Relationships
Best of Family & Relationships
"So Many Books, So Little Time!"
Exclusive Interview with
John Russell
When did you start writing?
When I was in junior high school.
What makes writing your passion?
The ability to communicate experiences, thoughts, and emotions to the reader, to take someone along with me on my life's journey, and to know that my voice will live on through my books long after I've physically departed this old planet.
How long have you been writing?
55 years.
What was the feeling when you published your first book?
Pure elation!
What’s the story behind your choice of characters?
What annoys you the most in pursuing a writing career?
The vagaries of the publishing industry.
How do you get over the “writer’s block”?
Sit my butt in the chair and write!
We all know the writer’s path is never easy, what makes you keep going? What advice would you give to new authors?
Develop a thick skin and don't give up. Find yourself a support group, even if it's only one or two people, who will encourage you, give you honest feedback, and inspire you to continue to write. Ignore those "critics" who merely have an axe to grind and like to make themselves feel superior by putting others down.
If you could go back in time and talk to your younger self, what would you say?
Keep writing...you're eventually going to make it.
Do you read your book reviews? How do you deal with the bad ones?
I ignore the bad reviews, for the reason that they rarely if ever contain anything useful or relevant. After reading some of the "iffy" reviews I wonder if they've even read my book!
What is the feeling when you get a good review?
I know that I've communicated with a fellow human being, and that they've gotten it. It's awesome!
Have you ever incorporated something that happened to you in real life into your novels?
Which of your characters you can compare yourself with? Did you base that character on you?
What do you think, the book cover is as important as the story?
Yes, a good, relevant book cover helps to sell the book.
Do you connect with your readers? Do you mind having a chat with them or you prefer to express yourself through your writing?
I do connect with my readers; I love getting their feedback and insights.
How do you feel when people appreciate your work or recognize you in public?
It's a wonderful feeling, but also humbling to know that people find my work praiseworthy.
Who is your favorite author? Why?
John Updike, for his ability to accurately portray the human condition.
What’s the dream? Whom would you like to be as big as?
James Patterson.
Would you rewrite any of your books? Why?