Edward R. Holzman Interview Published on: 15, Nov 2019

Tell us a little bit about your hometown and your life growing up.

I was born in Wahington, D.C at Walter Reed Army Hospital to a U.S, Army Colonel and a German War Bride in 1952. I attended about 20 different schools which was very difficult on many levels before High School. So I don't have a "Hometown". I finished High School in South Jersey and immediately moved to Southern California.

Having made your career in photography, what inspired you to start writing fantasy?

Getting older I suppose. After doing stills for many years I got bored and I wanted my images to MOVE, so I went into film-making: Directing, Producing and Writing. Before writing GEMMY - An Epic Adventure, my first Novel, I wrote a bunch of produced Screenplay's which have to be written in a very practical and producible way given the schedule and budget constraints with constant compromises. With a novel, I didn't have to consider those constraints - very freeing. It’s also a singular effort and not a team collaboration.

Being a world traveler and adventurer, what's your favorite place so far?

There are so many but Australia and Thailand stand out.

What challenges did you face while writing a children's book?

I would take exception to calling it a children's book. It is designed for young readers, (the experts say that 4th and 5th graders should handle it well) but I think there is enough substance and levels of narrative for it to be an enjoyable read for all ages and genders. Actually I found it quite easy, as writing goes. Making sure I stuck to the classic "Epic" structure was perhaps the most difficult. Art directing 2 wonderful artists, long distance, was challenging but satisfying - same goes for the look and layout of the book. I am very pleased with the results.

What inspired you to start writing, "Gemmy: An Epic Adventure"?

Actually, a friend had an idea about a Kangaroo meeting an Aboriginal woman and going on a walk-about. I took it from there.

What is the most exciting thing about writing a beautifully illustrated and magical story, "Gemmy - An Epic Adventure"?

Sure, you get a lot of satisfaction when you finish the last draft of the manuscript and you say to yourself, "It's done!" But getting that first Hard Cover published book in your hands is a celebration!

Do you write- every day, 5 days a week, on weekends, etc? What are some of the things you enjoy doing when you're not writing?

I'm a maniac when I'm on a role - it's like living two lives. I have no discipline to stop, sometimes not leaving the house for days, sometimes only eating when absolutely necessary and not answering the phone. Wish it wasn't so, but that's the way it is.

I still like photography, but for fun now. I am involved the the equine arts, golf and sailing. A dog lover - animals in general.

If you could choose to live in any place/country in the world, where would you go and why?

Maybe Australia but I am very fond of Central California as well. May sound strange but I'd like to be a gentleman farmer and real estate builder-developer.

When deciding a character's name, what are some things you like to consider? Do you find yourself wishing you gave any of your characters different names than the ones they have?

Gemmy's name is ingrained in the story - the rest I just get a feeling for and don't look back.

When inspiration is waning when you feel creatively sapped, what do you do? How do you stay fresh?

I take a nap, as a matter of fact I sleep whenever I want to - I may write all night and sleep all day - it irritates my friends! I also take long walks in the mountains.

How much do you think commerce affects your writing?

I want as many people to read my books as possible and I want them all to be made into films - I guess that's commerce.

What is the one mistake most authors make, regardless of experience?

I've heard of writers block and know what that feels like - for me, I don't do it anymore. I say "do" because I don't stare at a blank page - ever. It's the worst. I keep typing even though I know it's not anywhere near right. Reading it back helps me get over that hurdle.

Do you read your book reviews? How do you deal with bad or good ones?

I cherish the good ones and appreciate how talented and insightful the writer is. If there are bad ones, I dismiss the review and the writer.

Are you working on anything at the present you would like to share with your readers about?

I am working in a completely different genre: A present day detective drama / love story that takes place on the West side of Los Angeles -with lots of corruption called CENTURY CITY.

How do you usually promote your books? What has your AllAuthor experience been like so far and would you recommend it to other authors?

As this is my first novel I am going through a punishing learning curve. With the advent of self publishing there are many cottage industries that have sprung up - designed to take your money and run. It's like the old story about the gold rush - the guy that really made out was Levi Strauss who supplied the diggers with a good quality jean. All Author is an exception - very pleased with their service and support - really!

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