What is a childhood memory that makes you smile?
Going to the seaside in England, and trying to find the sea when the tide was out.
Were you an avid reader as a child? Do you still read books?
I have always been an avid reader, but strangely, now i am retired, with presumably more time, i seem to have less time to read books. Plus my eyes get very sore when i read.
Your thoughts on conventional vs. self-publishing? What route did you choose and why?
For the Dennis Bisskit books i had a publisher, but i self-published, Jessup and now i know i easy it is, i will only ever self-publish. At my age i can’t be bothered to wait for a year to get my books published.
What is a childhood ambition that you had?
The one ambition i remember was to travel. I hitchhiked around Europe in the early 70s, and then joined the British Airborne and saw many other countries, before emigrating to Australia.
What challenges did you face while writing your first serious novel, Jessup?
Must admit i found it pretty easy going once i had the idea. I self-published so was determined to get a good editor, which luckily i did.
As a writer, how do you get into the appropriate mindset to write comedy?
No problems there. I see the funny side of most things. Which is just as well, because once you reach 70 (nearly) laughter is more important than ever.
What did you enjoy more - writing a tale about war or writing comedy?
I hate to say it, being predominantly a comedy writer, but Jessup probably gives me most satisfaction. Purely because it was so unusual for me.
How much did you research while writing your novel, Jessup?
Much more than usual, because i wanted it to be as realistic as possible. Also, i got several plot ideas while researching, places and dates etc..
What's the best way to write comedy in a novel?
I like to think i am a fairly funny person, so it isn't really difficult for me. I also have a wife with a similar sense of humour so i can bounce ideas off her.
What's a war novel that you recommend for people who normally don't like war novels?
I enjoyed, Birdsong. Also always liked Sven Hassel novels.
What are the best places to visit in Australia?
the south-west of Western Australia is wonderful. Plus the Grampians in Victoria, the Blue Mountains in New South Wales, and Tasmania.
What are some key differences between writing comedy for sitcoms and writing comedy in a novel?
Haven't written a sitcom yet, so wouldn't know. I am open to offers though.
How many plot ideas are just waiting to be written? Can you tell us about one?
You would think there was nothing left to write, but i am sure there are still millions of great plot ideas. I,myself, am working on one right now, but I'm afraid you will have to wait and buy the book.
How has been your experience working with AllAuthor?
AllAuthor do a wonderful job of promoting your books, , and i would highly recommend them.
