Blog Archives
A Deeper Story To Be Told
Turning Pennies Into Dimes follows a stressed-out wolf who learns from his friend that there is more to life than work and he should do things that bring him happiness. What was the inspiration for your story?
“Turning Pennies Into Dimes” features the character of Doc the Wolf, who embodies my own experiences navigating a highly demanding and stressful phase of life. Similar to Doc, I found myself consumed by work and driven by the pursuit of success and financial gain. The inspiration to start writing the book emerged from a combination of sources.
Firstly, I felt a strong desire to prioritize meaningful time with my family, particularly my daughter, and to elevate our relationship above work commitments. Reflecting on the precious moments we shared and the profound joy that arose from being fully present with loved ones, I realized that there was a deeper story to be told. This realization became a powerful motivation to translate these experiences into a narrative that could resonate with others.
Secondly, the Wolf Pup NFT from the Wolf Den community played a pivotal role in inspiring the creation of Doc as a character in the book. Guided by the teachings of the Wolf Den, I embarked on a closer examination of my own life. This introspection led me to a realization: the relentless focus on work and material possessions was not providing the fulfillment and happiness I sought. It prompted me to question whether there was more to life than mere accumulation of wealth and professional success. This profound realization became the seed that germinated into the story of “Turning Pennies Into Dimes.”
What were some educational aspects that were important for you to include in this children’s book?
The main theme and educational aspect of the book revolve around a simple yet profound message: Are the actions you are currently taking helping you to get closer to what you genuinely want in life?
Through the narrative of “Turning Pennies Into Dimes,” both parents and children can embark on a journey of introspection and self-reflection. By continually reading the book together, they can gradually internalize the concept and develop a deeper understanding of how their actions align with their desires.
What is one thing that you hope readers take away from Turning Pennies Into Dimes?
The book encourages readers to critically evaluate their choices and consider whether their actions are appropriate in relation to their goals and aspirations. It prompts them to pause and reflect on whether their current path is leading them closer to a life of fulfillment and happiness.
Will this book be the start of a series, or are you working on a different story?
In addition to the story itself, a collection of 365 days of six-word lessons has been created as collectibles for those who wish to own a piece of Doc the Wolf history. These lessons offer concise and impactful messages that resonate with readers and provide daily inspiration.
The forthcoming series of books aims to delve into various concepts, providing readers with a deeper exploration of important themes. While the second book continues Doc’s journey and focuses on the theme of creativity, each subsequent book within the series will explore different concepts that may not typically be covered within the school system. The intention is to introduce children to a diverse range of ideas and perspectives, fostering their personal growth and intellectual development.
Alongside the second book, a coloring book set in the world of Doc the Wolf is also being developed. This coloring book will offer readers a chance to engage with the characters and scenes of Doc’s world in a creative and interactive manner.
To keep updated on any new developments or to learn more, readers can visit https://docthewolf.com/
For the children: A visually appealing story with a cool wolf character.
For the adults: A daily reminder that “more” is not always better, sometimes “more” only moves you further away from what truly matters in your life.
A Dream From Years Before
The Hunt for The Peggy C follows a merchant ship captain who agrees to help a Jewish family escape Amsterdam during WWII. What was the inspiration for the setup of your story?
Strangely, the inspiration for the novel was a dream from years before. When my daughter Allison was young, we watched a terrible action-adventure film together — I don’t remember which one — and I kept telling myself I could write a better screenplay. That night I had a dream, and when I woke up, I knew the first and last scenes and the name of the ship. That was all.
So, like Michelangelo used to say, I knew there was a figure in that block of stone — in my case, a story — and all I had to do was spend years trying to chisel it free. The “Hunt for the Peggy C” screenplay and other scripts and TV pilots I wrote attracted some interest in Hollywood but no sales. So, when Covid hit, and my wife Margo and I were stuck at home, I decided it was time to live up to the dream that had been the reason I had become a journalist: to learn how to write so I could become a novelist.
Miriam is a woman with strength. What do you think makes her a valuable and worthy heroine?
Miriam, the oldest daughter of the Jewish family being rescued, was a medical student until the Nazi-occupiers kicked all Jews out of universities. She is a bookworm–like our hero and her love interest, Captain Jake Rogers–as well as a healer who is frustrated by men’s cowardice. She is the moral backbone of the story and the one who has to courageously save Jake and the others
What were some themes that were important for you to explore in this book?
There is a fine line between honor and immorality. Does doing your duty and fighting for your country mean there is no limit to the atrocities you can commit? Does not doing your duty and defending your country mean you are a coward? And what are you if you refuse to make a choice and remain indifferent? The bottom line is that it takes real courage to do the right thing.
What is the next book that you are working on and when can your fans expect it to be out?
I stunned myself when I immediately started writing a sequel after selling The Hunt for the Peggy C to Bancroft Press. I was even more stunned when I finished what I’ve titled “Captain Rogers’ Long Watch,” which will be published by Bancroft Press in October 2024. I am now working on the third volume with many of the same characters in different phases of World War II.
Author Links: GoodReads | Twitter | Facebook | Website
The normally aloof Rogers finds himself drawn in by the family’s warmth and faith, but he can’t afford to let his guard down when Oberleutnant Viktor Brauer, a brutal U-boat captain, sets his sights on the Peggy C., Rogers finds himself pushed to the limits of his ingenuity as he evades Brauer’s relentless stalking, faces a mutiny among his own crew, and grapples with his newfound feelings for Miriam, the young Jewish woman whom, along with her family, he must transport to safety.
When Rogers is seriously wounded, Miriam must prove she is as tough as her rhetoric to save everyone as the U-boat closes in for the kill. THE HUNT FOR THE PEGGY C is a masterpiece laced with nail-biting tension and unexpectedly heartwarming moments that any reader, not just fans of naval fiction, will enjoy.
A Clear And Present Threat
Black Water follows a special forces team who are given the mission to stop a widespread coordinated attack on America’s water supply. What was the inspiration for the setup of your story?
The inspiration to write this story came from a few things for me. I have had it in my head to do a take off of Bond of Brothers: Danger Close so the imagination and the passion was there and ready to get it done. China fits the “Connection” role nicely. Over recent years, China has become more aggressive and has definitely emerged as a clear and present threat to the United States of America.
Were you able to relate to your characters while writing them?
It seems second nature for me to relate to most of my characters. I created them to play a role in the story. However some relate back to me more than others. I also believe my sense of pride in our military, a feel for family and faith gives the writing about Jason, his family and his team a warm place in my heart.
What was your favorite character to write for and why? Was there a scene you felt captured the character’s essence?
That is a hard one as I’m torn between Jason Patrick and Tex Larson, each unique in their way. In the mix of things, my bet is on big Tex, his sniper rifle and his blade of steel. Tex was created as the enemy’s worst nightmare, he is a tall, lanky and powerful man with a God given ability to blend into his surroundings with amazing stealth, all is dead quiet that is, until he shoots you in the head or slashes your throat. My favorite scenes for Tex are as he is prepared to head into harm’s way, he stands tall with his battle gear on, his face painted green and black. He’s the grim reaper in the night, such a scary sight.
Are there future missions planned for Jason and his team? If so, when can your fans expect the next installment?
Yes there is more to come now that Jason is the Colonel Commander and Tex is the Delta team leader. Jason Patrick and Special Forces are always in the light, ready to answer the call to defend our freedom.
Author Links: Goodreads | Twitter | Facebook | Author’s Website
It is five years since Delta Force stopped a deadly missile attack in the Middle East. Now team leader Jason Patrick is living a quieter life in North Carolina with his family, stationed at Fort Bragg.
But that is about to change when a new, even deadlier threat emerges from China. Its hostile president and top scientists have developed “Black Water” – a chemical agent which renders any water it comes into contact with toxic and undrinkable with just a few drops. And, with operatives already in place, they are planning to carry out a massive chemical attack on American soil.
So Jason and his special forces brothers – Tex, Jorge, Derek and a couple of new faces – are sent into the action once again. But this time they’re going to need all the teamwork they can get to defeat the world’s deadliest superpower, from the security services, law enforcement, and most of all from the community-spirited, patriotic people of small-town America…
My Children Were My Inspiration
A Monster Ate My Mom follows a little girl who wakes up to discover something is not right in her home, and finds her mom eating her siblings. What was the inspiration for your story?
My children were my inspiration. They are always wanting a “homemade” story. This was a spur of the moment story I made up one morning, while juggling all the chores of being a mom!
What were some educational aspects that were important for you to include in this children’s book?
It’s very important to me that unconditional love was shown/taught through this story. Moms (and dads) can become tired and worn out, and children may see them replaced with a “monster.” This story shows how love is unconditional by both mom and her children!
What were some of your inspirations as a writer?
I have been writing for as long as I can remember. I have so many favorite authors. I think the biggest inspirations would have been not only my own children, but also my parents, sister, and teachers. The individuals who always believed in me.
What is the next children’s book that you are working on, and when will it be available?
I have My next book written, I just have to have it illustrated! So TBD.
Author Links: Facebook | Instagram
When the children are served oatmeal instead of their usual pancakes, one little girl realizes something is very wrong. That feeling only grows deeper when her mom eats both her siblings!
What is this little girl to do when her mom is replaced by a monster? Pancakes are the least of her worries in this silly story about unconditional love.
Write My Own Fantasy
The Buried King follows an exiled princess who, with the help of her brother and good friend, tries to reclaim their kingdom and save it from a tyrant. What was the inspiration for the setup of your story?
I didn’t really have an inspiration. I was bored one day and remembered books I’ve read at such as the GRACELING series. I decided I wanted to give it a shot and write my own fantasy collection.
How long did it take you to imagine, draft, and write the world your characters live in?
It took me about ten months to create The Buried King. I was inspired to start it while in a psychiatric unit.
What were some themes that were important for you to explore in this book?
I wanted to explore subjects such as the strength of friendship like we see Iin Ash’s loyalty.
Will this novel be the start of a series or are you working on a different story?
The Buried King is part of a series! I am currently working on the sequel now with the tentative title being “The Shadow Dancer.”
Author Links: GoodReads | Facebook | Twitter
Her kingdom had been conquered and overthrown by the greedy evil fake heir. Many of her family have been executed, and her world is in chaos. Elika, however refuses to allow her people to be tortured, starved and her world destroyed.
Join her on her quest to find Ash and rally her supporters to reclaim the thrown to its proper heir. Follow as she encounters both treachery, deceit, and betrayal in people Elika once trusted and counted on in her royal life; while also learning and growing as she encounters loyalty, faithfulness, bravery and a strength in herself and others she never dreamed existed. This is a story of Elika’ journey encountering heartbreak, grief, betrayal, and yes even death. Along the way learning courage and integrity, honor and humility, and most of all experiencing the life style and true strength in her people… It is an amazing story that draws you in as if you are actually there experiencing every moment right beside Elika.
A Cinematic Embodiment of Suffering
Ruan Lingyu: Her Life and Career is a detailed biography of the life on and off the screen of one of China’s most important silent movie actresses. Why was this an important book for you to write?
I’ve been fascinated by Ruan Lingyu since 2018, when I saw her in Wu Yonggang’s 1934 masterpiece The Goddess. I was awestruck by her beauty and incredible talent (she was one of those people who made great acting look easy), and was saddened to learn that she’d died, at the age of twenty-four, by her own hand. Caught in one of those moments where moviegoers briefly forget celebrities themselves are only human, I wondered why someone who seemingly had everything—fame, success, etc.—was so unhappy with her life that she chose to end it. So I started researching her.
Initially, I had no plans of writing a biography, my only desire being to learn more about Ruan and her films. But within a year, I felt the desire to tell her story in the form of a book. As I continued learning, I used my research in articles on this woman who’d captivated me, but the actual writing of the biography did not begin until autumn 2021. By then, a book also seemed a great way to utilize my time in the midst of the covid-19 pandemic.
How much research did you undertake for this book and how much time did it take to put it all together?
I had three years of research under my belt when I started writing, and continued educating myself as I wrote over nine months. In addition to studying Ruan Lingyu’s life, I read up on Chinese film history and the history of China in the early twentieth-century. It was important to have an understanding of all three of these things, as they not only ran concurrently but often influenced one another. (Very often, Chinese film content of this time was tailored to—or against—major sociopolitical events and movements.) To gain this knowledge, I collected more than forty books (in English, Chinese, and French—huge thanks to my translators Zhang Le and François Coulombe) as well as a plethora of journals, newspaper articles, etc. I also benefited greatly from the efforts of Christopher Rea, professor of Chinese at the University of British Columbia, and his Modern Chinese Cultural Studies project, which includes a YouTube channel of the same name; he and his team have posted several Ruan Lingyu movies with new and complete English subtitles!
Did you find anything in your research of this story that surprised you?
Because of the handful of her films known to survive, Ruan Lingyu is perceived as a cinematic embodiment of suffering—someone victimized by war, sexism, and social prejudice. Even when she wants to push back—as in 1935’s New Woman—she proves weak and helpless. As I discovered in researching her lost movies, however, there were several instances where Ruan played against this image. There’s a lost picture directed by Bu Wancang called Three Modern Women (1932), which cast her as a take-charge, strong-willed heroine. I also learned of cases where she played outright villainesses—someone who inflicted suffering upon others. I wish someone somewhere would find prints of these pictures—so we can see her play against type. And maybe they will. After all, Love and Duty (1931) was believed lost until a copy was unearthed in Uruguay in 1994; it’s since been beautifully restored and released on Blu-ray in China. So maybe there’s hope for Three Modern Women, White Cloud Pagoda (1928), Spring Dream in the Old Capital (1930), etc.
What is one thing that you hope readers take away from Ruan Lingyu: Her Life and Career?
Part of Ruan Lingyu’s legacy stems from the fact that she died so young—it was, after all, this tragic fact that pushed me to research her so intensely. But in addition to contextualizing what pushed her to self-destruction, I hope my book demonstrates she was more than a famous person who committed suicide. This was an actress of exceptional talent, revered by her colleagues, whose career offers vivid glimpses into what China was like at the time. Early Chinese film history may not be as famous as what’s been produced in Hong Kong, but it’s a fascinating cinematic landscape—and Ruan Lingyu was one of its key figures.
Author Links: Amazon | GoodReads
Patrick Galvan’s biography on Ruan Lingyu tells the story of a daughter born to poor Cantonese parents and her rise to stardom during China’s tumultuous early twentieth-century history. As her personal tale unfolds, major events shape her nation as well as the Shanghai film industry. The book also charts the making of Ruan’s thirty films—including the twenty-one believed to be lost—and the circumstances that pushed her to end her life at the age of 24.
Enjoy Its Literary Merit
A Literary Smorgasbord: Memoir, Fiction, and Poetry is a collection of writing covering a broad range of styles and, and memories. What were some ideas that were important for you to share in the book?
However difficult the circumstances are in one’s life, if one continues to set goals and strive to achieve them, one will reach them in one way or another. One cannot plan exactly how things will turn out, but perseverance will get you some way towards the goal. Try and be happy and content with that.
What is the one thing that people point out after reading your book that surprises you?
How good my command of the English language is for someone whose mother tongue is not English. Although my parents did not speak a word of English, I was sent to boarding school at the age of seven. In the then British colony, Ceylon, English was the official language.
What is the one thing you hope readers will take away from your book?
There is no ‘one thing’ as far as I am concerned. Enjoy its literary merit in the variety of forms presented.
Author Links: Amazon | GoodReads
The Moral Of This Dark Tale
Helen’s Tale follows a lonely Elder woman working for the royal family who is entrusted with mentoring a new Elder-in-training with whom she forms a bond. What was the inspiration for the setup of your story?
Helen’s Tale is a companion novel to the Otherworld Trilogy. The trilogy itself is focused on Alexandria’s adventures. (Alexandria is the princess of the Otherworld.) Helen also appears as a secondary yet important character in the trilogy. She received mixed feelings from the readers. Some were fascinated by her character while others found her snobbish and standoffish. Therefore, I decided to write a prequel for the trilogy featuring her as the main protagonist. I was inspired by two movies—Black Swan (2010) and Spencer (2021). Both are psychological films. I decided to step up my game and include some Gothic elements in Helen’s Tale and make some parts of it horrifying.
What’s the moral of this dark tale, you may ask? Does it aim only to scare? Being the preachy author I am, I made sure to include an important message in the book: We all have weaknesses. You can be a tough, macho guy or a strong, independent woman, but in the end, none of us is invincible.
What was your writing process to ensure you captured the essence of the characters?
The writing process was very much like most of my books—I didn’t follow the sequence of chapters when writing Helen’s Tale. Instead, I worked on the scarier chapters first, derived great pleasure from writing them, and patched the holes (missing chapters) at the end. I did not have to work hard to capture the essence of the characters because I was already familiar with them, having finished the Otherworld Trilogy before starting Helen’s Tale.
Are there any emotions or memories from your own life that you put into your character’s life?
The answer is a very fortunate no. Although like Helen, I was bullied, the level of bullying she experienced was inhumane, while my plight paled in contrast. She suffered from PTSD, depression, schizophrenia, and anxiety in the aftermath, and while I was lucky enough to walk away from the bullying un-traumatized, I know many people aren’t as fortunate. Being an author, it is important to empathize with our characters and imagine what we would have done if we were them.
What is the next book that you are working on, and when will it be available?
The next book from my publisher might be Eric’s Tale, another companion novel to the Otherworld Trilogy. Like Helen, Eric is also a character with a sad past. The other two companion novels I’ve written for this series are Zack’s Tale and Eileen’s Tale.
Author Links: GoodReads | Twitter | Facebook | Website
LITERARY TITAN 