Tell us about yourself and how many books you have written.
Under my own name, I’ve written three books. I’ve ghostwritten dozens, though.
What is the name of your latest book and what inspired it?
Well, right now I’m promoting the eBook edition of ‘Inheritance And Other Stories.’ It’s actually my first book, but it’s been revised with a few new stories.
I wrote it originally when I was 23 years old, so then I was still healing from adolescence. Now I’m 30, so the Return Of Saturn thing is happening, which presents a whole new bottomless pit to explore.
Do you have any unusual writing habits?
Procrastination, but that’s definitely not unusual.
What authors, or books have influenced you?
My three are Faulkner, Toni Morrison, and Junot Diaz.
What are you working on now?
A lot. I also work in the film industry, so with that, my publishing imprint, and writing…sometimes I feel like a machine, if a somewhat inefficient one.
What is your best method or website when it comes to promoting your books?
You can always pay for publicity, and that does work, but not if you’re trying to turn a profit. Paying for publicity is good if you’re trying to get your name out there, or ‘building a brand’ – ugh, I hate that phrase. If you’re seeking respect, write a good book. Word of mouth via social media and positive reviews will take you where you need to go.
Do you have any advice for new authors?
Well, look. You had the fortitude to write the book, right? And it’s good, right? So I’d say you should have the intuition to decide to follow the beaten path, or not. There is no bad advice to give, because most temperamental creative people wouldn’t take it, anyway. Trial and error makes for the best learning. That’s how I’m doing it. Hands-on is best. Always.
What is the best advice you have ever heard?
I’ve never gotten any advice that I thought was worth listening to, to be honest. Toni Morrison said something to the effect of “Write the book you want to read,” which is what we all do, I think. But Fran Lebowitz added, “But she doesn’t mean EVERYONE.” That’s pretty golden, because there really are too many books being written, and some of them are pretty terrible. But these days, who are the tastemakers? The public? We all know that “popular” rarely equals “good.” I don’t know. I’m ranting.
What are you reading now?
I’m reading scripts, actually! I’m considering dabbling in acting. It sounds corny, but I’m a filmmaker, so it’s not much of a stretch.
What’s next for you as a writer?
I’m constantly writing, and everything I write ends up for grabs. So trust me, if I write it, you will see it eventually.
What is your favorite book of all time?
Impossible to answer. Really. I hate this question. I’ll say, “Light In August.”
Author Websites and Profiles
Jarod Powell Website
Jarod Powell Amazon Profile
Jarod Powell’s Social Media Links
Facebook Profile