As a child, what did you want to do when you grew up?
As a child I always wanted to be a professional athlete. Then I could afford to get my family into a better life and everyone would love me because of my talent.
Do you remember the first story you ever read, and the impact it had on you?
The first story I ever read was the Kite Runner. It was amazing and changed my life. Seeing how hard life is for other kids in other places really made my life come into perspective.
What are some interesting experiences you've had as a teen?
I group in foster homes and group homes so everyday was interesting. Living with that many people at once is never boring. But there are always fights. It’s always loud and you never have privacy.
Your thoughts on conventional vs. self-publishing? What route did you choose and why?
I used GCM media and D&L Publishing to help me with my books. I felt like a i was educated enough on the system yet to completely set publish. These guys were all very helpful too. I chose to get help to show me the process for the future and other books too.
How long did it take you to collect and write down all the recipes in "Convicted Creations Cookbook"?
I’ve done 6 years in prison for pot. So the collections are over 6 years and longer. Some of the recipes came from people who he done a lot of time. We wanted to share what daily life was like in there atleast at chow time and how creative people get.
What challenges did you face while writing your memoir, One Life The Chris Martin Story?
I wrote the memoir in jail on the floor of the “hole” or lockdown. I was deemed a gang member due to riding in an MC so was locked down while fighting 127 years. I wrote the book with number two pencils that I sharpened on the floor. Getting paper was a challenge. Everything in jail is.
What, in your opinion, are the most important elements of good writing?
I’m not a seasoned writer, but I live to read good books. So i feel like I have that to help me decide what’s good or not. But I’m still learning what it takes to be a great writer.
Why did you decide to write a collection of prison food and recipes collected over 6 years in for cannabis?
Honestly, we wrote the prison cook book kinda as a joke. In one aspect to see how talented all of the cooks are is amazing but I also wanted to share this experience with people who had never been there. Not to mention, my best friend in prison was Billy McMaster. I told him I was going to do it. He told me I should. After we were both released Billy passed away in a motorcycle wreck. So I dedicated both books to him and his daughter. I kept my word to him and her by writing the books.
What is your writing kryptonite? Inversely, what is something that never fails to inspire you?
My writing kryptonite is when I have to write a paper or essay. I brain lock quick. But, when I have a story to tell or a mission it just flows out of my pen.
Who all are a part of your family? How critical are they of your writing?
I’m married and have been 18yrs, we have 5 kids and 2 grand babies. They are my life and inspiration. They make everything easier in this “One Life”
When are you most satisfied with a book or piece of writing? Do you often edit things OUT of your books?
I’m most satisfied with a book once we have prodded it. I feel like all of my mistakes are aired and we can actually get to the printing of the book. Just knowing others will be affected by what you write is reward enough. Writing about real life, true stories and things that make people think never cease to inspire. I rarely edit things out, but almost always add :)
What is the most valuable lesson your life has taught you?
The most valuable lesson life has taught me is to never doubt yourself. You never know what you’re capable of until you’re forced to walk through it. Even when it isn’t fun, you’re still taking something from the experience. I would never have imagined a kid from group homes in KS would be where I am today.
If you were to be a world famous painting, which painting would you be?
If I were a world famous painting I would be a Picasso, “a perfect disaster” would best describe our beauty. Many different views of what’s seen.
How many plot ideas are just waiting to be written? Can you tell us about one?
I’m currently working on a book called, “From Prison to Profit” talking about exposing what a business private prison is from the inside out. I feel the world needs to know what a business prison is then they would understand our sentencing structure and court systems.
How has been your experience working with AllAuthor?
All author has been great in helping us het our books in front of new people and helping us market and advertise to new demographics. We will run all of our books through this platform.
