John Riddle is the author of 36 books and has worked as a ghostwriter on numerous projects. We enjoyed having this Author Interview – John Riddle, for our blog. Check out this fantastic author and follow them for more amazing stories.
John is the author of 36 books and has been a ghostwriter on numerous projects. His byline has appeared in major publications across the U.S., and John has written articles for over 200 websites. In 2002 he launched I Love To Write Day as a grassroots campaign to have people of all ages spend time writing every November 15th.
Since 1996 John has been working out of his home office in Delaware as a full-time freelance writer, author, ghostwriter & donut eater.
When did you start writing?
I started writing short stories in high school and then branched out to articles.
What was it like growing up?
I was one of six kids, and our family lived in a public housing project. One summer, our TV broke, and we couldn’t afford a new one. Luckily for me, our local library was only a few blocks away. Best summer of my life! That’s when I was hooked on “reading and writing.”
How was your early life?
Very entertaining. I was always creating something and kept a positive attitude.
What has been the biggest influence in your career?
Meeting other writers and authors at conferences and literary events.
Tell us about your newest release.
“The Flying Nun, A Light Bulb Moment And Me: 40 Years Making Money As A Freelance Writer (Hey, You Can Do It, Too!)” was published to show people how they can use their gift of creative communication to make money as a freelance writer. Over the years, I have been fortunate enough to write for major newspapers, including The Washington Post, as a freelance writer.
My book shares the secrets to getting published in newsletters, magazines, greeting card companies, and more. The important thing to remember as a freelance writer is this; You must have confidence, otherwise, you will never get published. You also have to follow directions and not let rejection spoil your day.
Which book of yours would you call your favorite child?
“For God and Country,” because I wrote it with my oldest daughter when she was in college. (She went on to write four more books on her own.)
What inspired you to write this book?
Barbour Publishing was looking for a few more book ideas, and that’s how “For God and Country” came about. It’s the story of four military chaplains from the Civil War to World War II.
What are you usually found doing when you’re not writing?
Thinking about writing. Or how I can help other writers get published.
What does your writing space look like?
I have two desks. An old roll top one, which has lots of nooks and crannies, and when it’s unorganized, I can simply pull down the cover. My other desk has my computer on it, along with lots of writing memorabilia.
If you wrote your autobiography, what would you name it?
I already have; “The Flying Nun, A Light Bulb Moment And Me: 40 Years Making Money As A Freelance Writer (Hey, You Can Do It, Too!)“
How long did it take to write your novel, and what was your process?
I have written a few novels as a ghostwriter. They usually take about three months or so to complete.
Favorite reads?
Any mystery and private eye book.
Do you have any book recommendations?
“The Stand” by Stephen King.
What’s your next big project?
Coming soon: “The PAC Method For Writers: How Prayer, Attitude And Confidence Can Lead You To A Successful Writing Journey.” And a few months down the road, I’ll be releasing “Getting a Book Contract in 30 Days or Less.”
Do you have any advice for aspiring authors?
Keep marketing yourself, and NEVER give up!
Follow John:
ilovetowriteday.com
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