Thursday, December 29, 2016

Interview with Author Mike Guardia



It’s Snowing in Hawaii

Mike Guardia is the renowned author of several history books, including The Fires of Babylon and Shadow Commander.  However, being the father of two young girls has inspired him to write It’s Snowing in Hawaii – his first children’s book.  He currently lives in Texas.

1. What really inspired you to write your book, to force you from taking an idea or experience and conveying it into a book?
Without a doubt, my two young daughters inspired me to write this book.  I love being a father and my children inspire me daily.  Since they were born, I’ve always loved reading bedtime stories to them.  One winter, they were playing inside and watching a cartoon with a Hawaiian theme.  Suddenly, I asked myself: “It’s snowing outside right now…I wonder what would happen if it snowed on the beaches of Hawaii.”  At that moment, I knew I had found a good idea for silly bedtime story.   

2. What is it about and whom do you believe us your targeted reader?
My book, written in verse, tells the fictional story of snowstorm in Honolulu.  It contains many satirical “winterized” elements of Hawaii – such as Hawaiian flannel shirts, bearskin hula skirts, and figure skating on Pearl Harbor.  My targeted readers are children, ages 0-8 years old.

3. What do you hope will be the everlasting thoughts for readers who finish your book? What should remain with them long after putting it down?
My sincere hope is that readers (parents and children) remember my book as a fun story with great illustrations.   

4. What advice or words of wisdom do you have for fellow writers?
Absolutely.  Stay passionate about your craft and try not to get discouraged.  Also, be willing to learn from your mistakes as a writer.  Take a few moments to analyze what works in terms of building your craft and discard what doesn’t work.  Like Hal Moore said:  “Three strikes and you’re NOT out.  There is always one more thing you can do to improve your chances of success.”  

5. What trends in the book world do you see and where do you think the book publishing industry is heading?
I think there’s a growing trend towards digital media.  E-books have really taken off during the past few years.  Everywhere you look, it’s hard to deny that e-readers have really changed the dynamic of the publishing world.  Meanwhile, the “brick-and-mortar” book stores are either closing or reducing their shelf space.  I strongly believe that within the next 15-30 years, 80% of the book publishing industry will be digital. 

6. What great challenges did you have in writing your book?
The biggest challenge was forcing myself to think of a rhyming scheme and to identify what elements of Hawaiian culture I want to include in the book. 

7. If people can only buy one book this month, why should it be yours?
My book offers a fun, light-hearted read that both parents and children can enjoy.  The book’s artist, Melanie Stephens, did a wonderful job with the illustrations.  Plus, it’s appropriately-themed for the Holiday season.   

For more information: www.mikeguardia.com

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Brian Feinblum’s views, opinions, and ideas expressed in this blog are his alone and not that of his employer. You can follow him on Twitter @theprexpert and email him at brianfeinblum@gmail.com. He feels more important when discussed in the third-person. This is copyrighted by BookMarketingBuzzBlog 2016 ©. Born and raised in Brooklyn, now resides in Westchester. Named one of the best book marketing blogs by Book Baby 

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