Richard Osuntokun Interview Published on: 21, Mar 2023
Where did you grow up?
I grew up in Nigeria in a big city called Ibadan/ I moved to the United States in my 30-s.
Were you an avid reader as a child? Do you still read books?My appetite for reading is insatiable as a kid, I read any books I was able to lay my hands on. I was so dedicated to reading that my Dad used to jokingly call me a “Paper Lion” due to the ease I voraciously consumed any books.
Who is the most supportive person in your life when it comes to your writing?Jesus, then my wife.
What kind of research do you do for your books and how long does it usually take?I don’t do too many researches; I like my book to be the purest work I can produce. I check a few things up as I write however. Sometimes I don’t even know what I will write until I start to write and the picture begin to unfold in my mind.
How do you decide upon the perfect book titles?The title formation needs a lot of introspection, then I piece together chapter by chapter until the book is completed.
Did you have any alternate ending in mind for the book, The Ordained Demon? How did you decide the ending of the story?Ordained demon is actually my own story at the beginning. The brilliant little boy who was so gifted but confused. Then the various battles he went through before and after he got into in the priesthood, were also kind of similar to my story. I nearly got into the seminary to become a catholic Priest when I completed my high school education and my mother would not allow me. But, still today, I still found my way to become a Pastor once I completed medical school. However, from the point Michael became a Priest; the story was no longer my own story. It became pure fiction. The end of the story is temporary. It’s not the end. I still see books 2 and 3 in the future.
Do you encounter writer's block often? If so, which book of yours did you get stuck on the most and what are some things you did to get your brain working again?No. I write from inspiration. I don’t force it . I wont write anyhtng unless I feel something.
Audiobook vs e-book vs printed book, which one do you prefer and why?Printed book. I love to place something in people’s hands.
When are you most satisfied with a book or piece of writing? Do you often edit things OUT of your books?Absolutely
What is your writing kryptonite? Inversely, what is something that never fails to inspire you?Jesus
What are the main things that one should know before starting to write a book?You must know about the topic, then write from your heart. If you’re not capable of digging deep and searching widely within you. You can’t write a book.
What are your hobbies apart from writing?I listen to music, love watching movies and watching basketball,
What is your ideal setting to write in?I write at night, I love quiet places, but I’m comfortable if people are around or if the lace is a bit noisy. I just don’t want anyone to speak to me when I’m writing
How many plot ideas are just waiting to be written? Can you tell us about one?The story of the mad Scientist... He died trying to find a cure for the illness. This was the same Illness he contacted while trying to find the cure. And then what.....
Thoughts on social network marketing? What has you experience with AllAuthor been so far and is this a worthy enough platform for you to recommend to your friends?I love the banners/cover book competitions and the way they have created a page for every Author. I think the next thing is to promote individual books for a price to the public like Bookbub and others do.
