Tom Donaldson Author Interview

Max is the story of one genius little boy and the tumultuous turns his life takes beginning at the age of eight. What was your inspiration for this story and how did it change as you wrote?

My inspiration for this book began with an previous book I wrote. Black Overalls. Max was introduced in that book. That book has already been reviewed by Literary Titan, and received four stars and a Silver Award. This book is very much about Max, but as the story evolved it also became very much about Sheldon, Charlie and MaryAnn.

Sheldon is a genius at age eight who experiences multiple losses and trials as he tackles the challenges of adulthood while striving to become a champion chess player. What were some of the trials that you felt were important to highlight the characters development?

Although being a genius is a tremendous asset, it also creates some very real difficulties for a young boy. Since all his classmates are several years older, Sheldon finds it difficult to form friendships. He is more interested in being a normal kid, than being a genius. With the death of his father, he is left with little male influence in his life. His mother, Max and Charlie become his whole world.

Max is an exceptional dog in his own right and plays a vital role in impacting the lives of multiple people. Have you ever had a pet that impacted your life as greatly? What was your inspiration for Max?

The picture on the cover of the book is actually of my dog, Max. He died a few years ago at the age of sixteen. I have always been a dog lover, and have owned several. Max was probably my favorite. I have two dogs now, Ozzie and Cyrus. They are mentioned in another of my books.

What is the next story that you are working on and when will it be available?

I have written three books so far. Two of them you have already reviewed. The other book, The Valley Country Club, will be submitted for review soon. I am not currently writing a new story, but I have a few ideas that I am considering.

Author Links: GoodReads | Amazon

Dog, Boy Genius, Chess