The Interview - John Andrew Rutherford

How did you become an author and get published? Share your experience.

It was something that was passion, on the bucket list, but no time, until recently. I'm so pleased I preserved, and I enjoy it so much.

When you're working on a book and a new idea pops up, should you pursue it immediately (also known as 'UP syndrome') or finish your current project first? What do you think is the best course of action?

I write all my ideas down and can jump from one drafting to another. It keeps me fresh and agile.

Which character do you enjoy writing the most as a writer and why? If choosing a favorite character is like choosing a favorite child, which character do you find requires the most attention and detail from you as a writer?

I enjoy writing about many characters.

Can you explain your writing process? Do you prefer to create an outline and plan beforehand, or do you prefer to write more spontaneously and organically?

Outline and plan - storyboard process.

What are some books or authors that you would recommend to our readers?

So many. I can answer like this. Everybody should the top 100 books of all time. If it is classic, it means it is worth reading.

Tell us what you enjoy most about writing [genre].

I write children's and adult genre. I use Reedsy prompts a lot because it tests your writing, and one can compare and learn.

What have you found to be most challenging about writing in [genre]?

Opposite of the emotion spectrum. Love or sex scenes, and scenes of violence.

Have you been able to incorporate your previous experience in [jobs/education] in your writing?

Yes - I'm in my seventies so there is lot on the wagon so to speak.

Do you identify with your main character or did you create a character that is your opposite?

Both, and all. I create and imagine the characters depending on the story.

Describe the [book/series] in 10 words or less for people who are just learning about it.

I have many Ebooks, and one paperback ready to publish. All children's stores. One adult book is near completion. I have 4 brands published.

MADOOREE - A magical land like a stage, a threatre with classical characters, educational themes.

MAGIC GARDEN - A magical world underneath Leninsky Park where animals become human, and humans become animals.

BASIL - The fireman dragon, he puts out fires, from a chameleon dragon family.

MYNEWTA - The hummingbird she seeks out sadness bubbles and solves the sad problems.

Would you like readers to have any specific takeaway from your book?

I just hope they enjoy.

Do you have any unusual writing habits?

Not really. I tend to use visual scenes in my head, and then use that as the triggers for the text. The scenes are like a mosaic. It comes together in the end, but not in a linear manner.

As an author, what critique has been the most challenging for you to receive? On the other hand, what compliment has been the most rewarding?

All critique is both challenging and rewarding. The process never ends, I find it a continuous learning process.

Share some advice for aspiring authors. What advice would you give to your younger self?1. What is your favorite line from your book?

Just do it - write!

To date, what is your favorite (or most difficult) chapter you have ever written?

It depends. Some chapters just flow, and are completed quickly, they may need polishing later, but the core idea is quick. Some chapters are more complex, based on the subject and situation. My concepts and ideas can change, even when I'm writing.

What is your take on book boyfriends? Do they actually exist? Or do they set the bar for “real life men” impossibly high?

I have never heard about this.

Have you ever experienced writer’s block? How did you deal with it?

Not yet.

What do you like to do when you’re not writing?

Many things, a contrast, walking, outside activities.

Was there anything you had to research for the book?

Yes. A lot of research, a lot, even for some of the children's stories.

Did you have any say in the cover design?

I create them myself. I create all the materials myself.

What are you reading right now?

BABEL

What can we anticipate from you moving forward?

More books.

Do you have any movie or tv adaptations in the works?

A lot of work could be adapted.

Did you always want to be an author? If not, what did you want to be when you grew up?

Yes. But I didn't have the time.

How long did it take you to write this book?

It depends. The book that I'm in the middle of right now has been under draft for one year in duration, but I don't write constantly on this book, I have written drafts for other books during the one year as well.

Where do you like to write? In a coffee shop? In your home office? On the beach?

At home.

Do you listen to music while you write? If so, what kind of music do you like to listen to?

No.

What other hobbies do you have outside of writing?

Many. Skiing, swimming, cycling, traveling.

Are any of the characters in your book based on people in your real life? If so, can you tell us more about that process and how it influenced your writing?

Sometimes.

Do you have any personal connection to the story or characters?

Sometimes.